The Biden administration’s last-minute release of an artificial intelligence strategic plan for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has garnered attention as the administration’s term comes to a close. The strategic plan, which spans nearly 200 pages, outlines the department’s dedication to utilizing AI in a trustworthy, ethical, and equitable manner.
One of the significant aspects of the AI strategic plan is the inclusion of a chapter focusing on cybersecurity risks. The plan delves into current and anticipated trends in cybersecurity risks, the impact of AI on these risks, and the implications for healthcare, public health, and human services. The overarching goal of the plan is to facilitate a coordinated approach – involving both public and private entities – to enhance the quality, safety, efficiency, accessibility, equitability, and outcomes in health and human services through the responsible use of AI.
To achieve its objectives, HHS has outlined four key goals in the AI strategic plan:
– Catalyzing health AI innovation and adoption to improve people’s lives
– Promoting trustworthy AI development and ethical use to prevent harm
– Democratizing AI technologies and resources to ensure access for all
– Cultivating AI-empowered workforces and organizational cultures to facilitate safe and effective AI utilization
In the realm of cybersecurity and AI, HHS has highlighted its efforts to enhance cybersecurity in the healthcare sector. By issuing a concept paper focused on cybersecurity improvements for the healthcare industry, HHS aims to address cybersecurity incidents that can impact various stakeholders, leading to delays in patient care and disruptions for providers and public health departments. The integration of AI into healthcare systems has expanded the threat landscape, necessitating scalable cybersecurity protections.
In a related development, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a part of HHS, recently issued a document focusing on AI-related considerations for medical devices. The FDA’s draft guidance covers pre-market and life cycle management considerations, including cybersecurity, for developers and manufacturers of medical devices incorporating AI technologies. These efforts by HHS and the FDA reflect a broader initiative by the Biden administration to address cybersecurity challenges and promote responsible AI development in the healthcare sector.
As the Biden administration prepares to transition, several key initiatives and proposals, including the AI strategic plan and proposed updates to the HIPAA security rule, have been set in motion. The administration is also expected to issue an executive order outlining strategies to counter cyber threats, particularly from China. However, the fate of these proposals under the incoming administration remains uncertain.
Overall, the release of the AI strategic plan for HHS represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of AI in healthcare while ensuring cybersecurity measures are in place to protect sensitive data and systems. The collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and cybersecurity experts will be crucial in realizing the full benefits of AI technologies in the healthcare sector.