HHS Publishes New AI Strategic Plan
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) revealed their strategic plan on artificial intelligence (AI) outlining short- and long-term goals for safe and effective use of AI in health, human services, and public health. In the strategic plan, HHS lays out four key goals for AI, provides examples of AI use cases, and identifies potential risks for AI as it is implemented. (Fierce Healthcare, 1/14)
HIO Insights From 2023 National Survey
A 2023 national survey by the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy (ASTP) tracks the evolution of health information organizations (HIOs) in the United States, progressions in data sharing, and persistent barriers (i.e. information blocking). Survey results revealed that approximately half of HIOs reported potential information blocking that greatly or moderately created difficulties in services and missing data, with 61% reporting for electronic health record (EHR) developers and 45% reporting for health systems. (Health IT Buzz, 1/7)
Governor Newsom Releases Proposed 2025-26 California Budget
California Governor Gavin Newsom shared his proposed 2025-26 state budget, which includes a positive balance of $363 million following the prior fiscal year’s significant budget deficit. Health care highlights include full funding retained for CalAIM and other Medi-Cal investments, funding focused on behavioral health, and budget adjustments regarding Proposition 35 updates to the Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax. (California Budget & Policy Center, January 2025)
ASTP Appoints New Health IT Leaders
Last year, HHS established ASTP to lead its efforts on digital technology, data, cybersecurity, and AI policy and strategy with the addition of new leadership positions. With extensive combined public and private experience, the new hires include:
- Alicia Rouault as Associate Deputy Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Chief Technology Officer
- Dr. Meghan Dierks as Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer
- Kristen Honey as Chief Data Officer
(Healthcare IT News, 1/16)