The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is increasingly embracing the large role
Their moves include this year’s new AI Strategic Plan, focusing on innovation, ethical use, and improving healthcare delivery. The plan aims to “catalyze information, promote trustworthy AI development, democratize technologies and resources, and cultivate AI-empowered workforces and organization cultures.” It also outlines goals such as advancing data-sharing initiatives, strengthening safeguards around privacy and security, and expanding training programs to prepare the federal workforce for responsible AI integration.
Implementation of AI in Progress
Measures taken by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to utilize AI technology include launching a chat bot called ChatCDC, built on OpenAI’s language model that powers ChatGPT for consumption by the public. The tool is designed to improve public engagement by providing accessible, real-time responses to health questions while reducing the burden on CDC staff. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are using similar technology to perform administrative tasks such as taking meeting notes, as well as experimenting with more technical tasks such as recognizing data patterns, regulatory review, detecting fraud and waste, analyzing prescription drug costs, and more. These efforts reflect a growing recognition that AI can help agencies streamline operations while uncovering insights from vast amounts of data.
Beyond internal agency operations, HHS envisions AI as a tool that can ultimately improve patient care. Potential applications include assisting physicians in diagnosing conditions more quickly, personalizing treatment plans, reducing administrative burdens that take time away from patients, and identifying public health trends earlier. These possibilities highlight the promise of AI not just as an efficiency tool for government, but as a driver of better health outcomes for millions of Americans.
Concerns Remain About Accuracy, Fairness
The administration has expressed hopes to prioritize efficiency and responsibility to optimize performance within all HHS departments, however some staff have expressed concerns about the accuracy of the new technology in some instances. Questions remain around how these systems will be monitored, evaluated, and refined to ensure accuracy, fairness, and transparency in their application. There are also potential issues around algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the need for clear accountability when AI systems influence healthcare decisions.
What we know for certain is that HHS is embracing AI, and it will continue to shape not only agency operations but also the broader healthcare ecosystem in the coming years.
Emma Meehan is ACA associate manager of federal government relations.
