HHS Restructures to Consolidate Tech, Data, AI Capabilities

The Department of Health and Human Services is revamping its approach to technology, cybersecurity, data and artificial intelligence by consolidating the functions under a new central office.

The move comes as the department looks to address growing opportunities and challenges in data and technology concerning health care and human services, the HHS said.

To streamline oversight, the HHS will establish the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. Formerly known as the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, the new office will take the lead on department-wide technology, data and AI policy and strategy.

The ASTP/ONC will also house the chief technology officer, chief AI officer and chief data officer and their respective offices, which were previously under the Assistant Secretary for Administration. Additionally, a new Office of Digital Services will be set up within the same office.

Also included in the reorganization is the transitioning of the oversight of the 405(d) Program from the ASA to the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response.

National Coordinator Micky Tripathi will helm the ASTP/ONC and serve as the acting chief AI officer, while the office is seeking talent for the CTO, CAIO and CDO positions. A webinar about the said opportunities will be held on Aug. 1.