This is a plain language summary of a letter to the editor. These are often written to share extra perspective on someone else’s argument. It responds to a longer academic article about the same topic. Both are about the engagement of young people in the design of digital health programs. These are online tools that support young people’s health and wellbeing.   

The original article suggests that some young people aren't included. This is because access to online technology isn't equal for everyone. They think young people in rural areas and from diverse backgrounds might be missing out.   

Our letter to the editor agrees. However, the original article didn’t consider young people with disability. They might also be missing out. If we include young people with disability, digital tools would be more inclusive. They might be more effective for everybody. 

What is the problem? 

Young people with disability have much worse mental health than their peers. However, they aren't included in the design of digital health tools to help them. 

Why does it matter?  

There are 450,000 young Australians with disability aged 15-24 years old, so there is a big gap in evidence. Digital inclusion needs to include perspectives of diverse young people. This will make health tools more relevant, accessible, and effective. 

What needs to change? 

We need to involve young people with disability in the design of these tools from the start. We can take practical steps to make participation genuine and accessible.   

Why is this important?  

Inclusive design benefits everyone. We also have an ethical responsibility to include young disabled people in health tool design. This should lead to better outcomes.