The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a major reorganization of its technology, cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence strategy and policy functions. The move aims to improve coordination and effectiveness in these critical areas. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology will be renamed the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology.
It will take on oversight of technology, data, and AI policy and strategy from the Assistant Secretary for Administration. The 405(d) Program, a public-private cybersecurity initiative, will move from ASA to the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response. This consolidates healthcare sector cybersecurity efforts under ASPR’s Office of Critical Infrastructure Protection.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said, “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.”
ASTP/ONC will establish an Office of the Chief Technology Officer and revive the CTO role.
HHS technology policy reorganization unveiled
The CTO will oversee department-wide technology, data, and AI strategy and policy, including new Offices of the Chief AI Officer, Chief Data Officer, and Digital Services. The Chief AI Officer will set AI policy and strategy, establish governance and risk management, coordinate HHS’s AI approach, support safe AI use, and coordinate AI talent initiatives. The Chief Data Officer will oversee data governance, drive data literacy, manage HHS data strategy, support data collaboration, and manage HHS’s data as a strategic asset.
Micky Tripathi, the National Coordinator, will be named Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy/National Coordinator for Health IT. He has also been named Acting Chief AI Officer. ASTP/ONC has initiated a search to fill the permanent CTO, Chief AI Officer, and Chief Data Officer positions.
HHS Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm noted, “ONC already plays a critical role in health IT across our agencies and with industry. This reorganization enhances our capabilities to advance our strategic technology, data, and AI policies and activities.”
A webinar on August 1, 2024 will inform stakeholders about these opportunities. More information is available on the HHS website.
