Journal of Occupational and Environmental MedicineDec 23, 2025

How Long COVID Affects Healthcare Workers' Job Performance in Spain

Long Covid Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗OA ↗

Updated Jun 27, 2026

Abstract

Essence

Healthcare workers in Spain reported that long COVID impaired job performance through physical and cognitive limitations and difficult return-to-work experiences.

Evidence

A phenomenological qualitative study used seven online focus groups and four interviews with affected healthcare workers, providers, and stakeholders from April to June 2024.

Caveat

The qualitative design captures reported experiences rather than measuring prevalence, causal effects, or the impact of specific workplace adaptations.

Simplified

OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences of healthcare workers (HCWs) in Spain with long COVID and its impact on their job performance, from the perspectives of affected HCWs, healthcare providers, and key stakeholders.

METHODS: A phenomenological, constructivist approach was used. Seven online focus groups and four interviews were conducted from April to June 2024. Transcripts were thematically analysed using Atlas.ti using a predefined guideline.

RESULTS: Long COVID significantly impaired work ability due to physical and cognitive limitations. Sick leave followed long-term or intermittent patterns, though many HCWs hesitated to take leave. Return-to-work experiences were shaped by workplace adaptations, institutional support, and persistent symptoms. Improvement proposals include formal recognition and holistic workplace support as they are essential to reduce its occupational burden.

CONCLUSIONS: Long COVID significantly impacts affected HCWs job performance, highlighting a need for recognition, support and workplace adaptation.