The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a comprehensive five-year data strategy that places a significant emphasis on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance health outcomes and wellness. With a strong alignment to the Biden Cancer Moonshot initiative, the strategy aims to reduce cancer deaths and enhance the nation’s overall incident response, spanning scenarios from severe respiratory illnesses to natural disasters.
The HHS data strategy identifies five key priorities, including fostering data sharing, cultivating data talent within the organization, integrating administrative data into program operations, and establishing a comprehensive view of wellness and health needs for individuals and families. These priorities are seen as pivotal to enhancing departmentwide data capabilities and infrastructure. HHS acknowledges that 2023 is a unique moment for leadership in AI, driven by the growth in cloud computing infrastructures, new technologies, and increased investment, especially accelerated by the ongoing global pandemic.
While AI presents opportunities to advance scientific discovery and drive efficiencies in healthcare, the strategy also recognizes the associated risks, such as discrimination, bias, fraud, disinformation, and privacy concerns. To address these challenges, HHS commits to establishing an AI Task Force responsible for creating policies and frameworks that ensure the responsible use of AI in the health sector. Additionally, HHS plans to leverage its funding to advance the responsible use of AI. In a separate development, the HHS’ Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT has emphasized AI in a final rule related to health data interoperability and the latest iteration of its health IT certification program.
The new regulations introduce transparency requirements for AI and predictive algorithms integrated into certified health IT. The comprehensive HHS strategy, coupled with specific regulations, highlights the increasing importance of responsible AI use in the healthcare sector, emphasizing the potential benefits while addressing risks and challenges.
