- HHS announces a reorganization to streamline technology, cybersecurity, data, and AI functions.
- ONC will be renamed to Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC).
- Oversight of technology, data, and AI policy will shift from ASA to ASTP/ONC.
- The 405(d) Program will move from ASA to ASPR to integrate cybersecurity efforts.
- ASTP/ONC will establish new offices for Chief Technology Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Chief AI Officer.
- Chief AI Officer will oversee AI policy, governance, and training within HHS.
- Chief Data Officer will manage data governance, strategy, and collaboration.
- Micky Tripathi will serve as Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Acting Chief AI Officer.
Main AI News:
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major reorganization aimed at optimizing its approach to technology, cybersecurity, data management, and artificial intelligence (AI). This strategic shift is designed to consolidate responsibilities and enhance the Department’s agility in addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities in healthcare and human services.
In recent years, the integration of technology and data into healthcare has expanded, necessitating a more streamlined approach to policy and operations. Historically, these functions were distributed among several HHS entities, 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). The new structure will centralize these critical roles to improve coordination and effectiveness.
Key changes in the reorganization include:
- The ONC will be renamed the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC).
- Oversight of technology, data, and AI policy and strategy will shift from ASA to ASTP/ONC. This move will encompass the roles of Chief Technology Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Chief AI Officer within the Department.
- The 405(d) Program, which fosters cybersecurity collaboration between the health sector and federal government, will transition from ASA to ASPR. This aligns with ASPR’s broader cybersecurity initiatives and aims to streamline efforts in protecting healthcare infrastructure.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the importance of this reorganization in addressing the critical issues of cybersecurity, data management, and AI in the healthcare sector. “Cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence are some of the most pressing issues facing the health care space today. As a Department, HHS must be agile, accountable, and strategic to meet the needs of this moment,” Becerra said. “This reorganization builds on our success and prepares the Department for future challenges.”
Under the new structure, ASTP/ONC will take on expanded responsibilities, including the establishment of an Office of the Chief Technology Officer and the reinstatement of the Chief Technology Officer role. This office will oversee technology, data, and AI strategy and policy across the Department, incorporating the Chief AI Officer, Chief Data Officer, and a new Office of Digital Services.
The role of the Chief AI Officer will be pivotal, focusing on:
- Setting AI policy and strategy for HHS.
- Developing internal governance and risk management approaches for AI use.
- Coordinating AI initiatives within the health and human services sectors.
- Supporting safe and effective AI tool usage across the Department.
- Overseeing AI talent and training programs.
Similarly, the Chief Data Officer will:
- Manage data governance and policy development.
- Promote data literacy and talent initiatives.
- Oversee the HHS data strategy.
- Facilitate data collaboration and exchange.
- Treat data as a strategic asset for the Department.
National Coordinator Micky Tripathi will transition to the role of Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy/National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and will serve as the Acting Chief AI Officer. ASTP/ONC is currently seeking candidates for the permanent positions of Chief Technology Officer, Chief AI Officer, and Chief Data Officer to complete its newly restructured team.
HHS Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm highlighted the strategic significance of the reorganization: “These organizational changes will ensure that HHS is best situated to serve the American people during this incredibly dynamic time in the technology space.”
Conclusion:
The reorganization of HHS’s technology, cybersecurity, data, and AI functions is set to significantly enhance the Department’s ability to manage and integrate these critical areas. By consolidating oversight and centralizing key roles, HHS aims to improve coordination and effectiveness in addressing the complex challenges in healthcare technology. This move is likely to lead to more streamlined operations and improved responsiveness to technological advancements and cybersecurity threats. For the healthcare and tech sectors, this reorganization signals a strengthened focus on strategic technology management and a more unified approach to AI and data governance, potentially setting a precedent for other government departments and organizations in the sector.
