WHO and ITU unveiled telehealth accessibility standards for people with disabilities on April 7, 2026. The ITU-T F.780.2 standard covers all disability types — visual, hearing, mobility, mental health, and cognitive.
The standard defines 25 essential requirements, spanning from interface design compatible with screen readers and captions for deaf users, to support for non-verbal communication for those with speech limitations.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated: “A digital revolution worth having is one that leaves no one behind.”
India is pioneering adoption after its Supreme Court mandated compliance in November 2024. With over 70 million people with disabilities, accessible telehealth development is urgent.
Thailand 🇹🇭 has the Mor Prom app, but there’s no clarity on whether it complies with international standards — particularly assistive technology support and design that people with disabilities can actually use. This is a good opportunity for improvement.
AI can help people with disabilities, yet algorithmic bias poses real risks that need addressing. Ultimately, these standards ensure technology leaves no one behind.
Who’s had inconvenient experiences with remote public health services?
Let’s hear your voice!!!!
Source: WHO/ITU Press Release, April 7, 2026