Publication | BRG
US Department of Health and Human Services Announces a Reorganization
Tom O'Neil
On July 25, 2024, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a reorganization to streamline and bolster policy and strategy planning for technology, cybersecurity, data, and artificial intelligence (AI). Historically, these functions have been spread across three offices.
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 (ASTP/ONC). ASTP/ ONC will oversee technology, data, and AI policy and strategy with the addition of three new HHS executive leaders: a chief technology officer, chief data officer, and chief AI officer. The agency is currently hiring for these positions. The current national coordinator has been named the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy/National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and is serving as the acting chief AI officer during the search for a permanent chief.
With recent cyberattacks and the rapid deployment of new AI tools, this reorganization likely reflects HHS’ acknowledgment of the vital role that cybersecurity and AI now occupy in healthcare and life sciences and could signal an increased appetite for guidance or rulemaking. BRG is closely following regulatory developments related to the deployment of AI across industries and will highlight further updates from the ASTP/ONC as they are announced.
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