Technology advancements in healthcare have significantly shaped the landscape of health services in recent years. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recognized this shift and announced a strategic reorganization to streamline and bolster technology, cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and policy functions. This move is designed to enhance efficiency, clarity, and effectiveness in managing these critical areas.
Historically, the responsibility for policy and operations related to technology, data, and AI was distributed across various offices within HHS, including the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), the Assistant Secretary for Administration (ASA), and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). This reorganization aims to consolidate these functions for better coordination and oversight. The key changes include:
Technology Leadership: ONC Renamed ASTP/ONC with Expanded Oversight on Technology, Data, and AI Policy
ONC will be renamed the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC). Oversight over technology, data, and AI policy and strategy will transition from ASA to ASTP/ONC. This includes the HHS-wide roles of Chief Technology Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Chief AI Officer.
The public-private cybersecurity effort between the health sector and the federal government, known as the “405(d) Program,” will move from ASA to ASPR. This aligns it with other health sector cybersecurity activities within ASPR’s Office of Critical Infrastructure Protection, promoting a unified approach to healthcare cybersecurity.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the importance of these changes, stating, “Cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence are some of the most pressing issues facing the healthcare space today. As a Department, HHS must be agile, accountable, and strategic to meet the needs of this moment. This reorganization builds on our past successes and prepares the Department for the challenges that lie ahead.”
Technology Overhaul: ASTP/ONC Expands with New Offices and Increased Responsibilities for Data and AI Strategy
The Chief AI Officer will have several critical responsibilities, including setting AI policy and strategy for HHS, establishing internal governance, policies, and risk management approaches for AI uses within HHS, coordinating HHS’s AI approach in the health and human services sectors, supporting the safe and appropriate use of AI technologies and tools across the department, and coordinating AI-related talent and training initiatives. The Chief Data Officer will continue to play a pivotal role in overseeing data governance and policy development, driving data literacy and data talent initiatives, managing the HHS data strategy, supporting data collaboration and exchange, and managing HHS’s data as a strategic asset for the department.
This strategic reorganization by HHS underscores the critical importance of technology, cybersecurity, data, and AI in modern healthcare. By consolidating these functions under ASTP/ONC, HHS aims to create a more cohesive and effective framework for addressing the complex challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements. The establishment of dedicated offices for technology, AI, and data governance reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, innovation, and efficiency in the health and human services sectors.
Moreover, this reorganization aligns with HHS’s broader mission to ensure the health and well-being of the American people through the appropriate and safe use of technology. By enhancing its strategic approach to technology and data, HHS is better positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare and to support initiatives that improve public health outcomes.
In conclusion, the reorganization announced by HHS marks a significant step forward in the management of technology, cybersecurity, data, and AI within the department. With a streamlined structure and enhanced oversight, HHS is poised to address the pressing issues in healthcare technology and to leverage these advancements for the benefit of the public. This move reflects a proactive approach to embracing innovation while maintaining a strong focus on safety, governance, and strategic growth in the health and human services sectors.
Resource: Health and Human Services, July 25, 2024
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