HHS launches unified AI strategy

HHS released its new AI Strategy on December 4, 2025, marking the Department’s most expansive modernization effort since the launch of its earlier AI Action Plan.

What happened 

Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill announced the initiative in Washington, noting that AI now sits at the center of HHS’s push to “make artificial intelligence available to the federal workforce” and drive efficiency across all internal operations. The Strategy was developed under the leadership of Clark Minor, the Acting Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, and fulfills directives from AI Executive Orders and guidance from the Office of Management and Budget. 

For the first time, HHS adopted a OneHHS model, requiring the CDC, CMS, FDA, NIH, and all other divisions to collaborate on a unified AI infrastructure. Congressional leaders, including Rep. Jay Obernolte and Senators Todd Young and Mike Rounds, publicly endorsed the launch on the same day, framing it as a step toward safer, more transparent, and more effective AI adoption in U.S. health systems.

What was said 

In the press release, Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Jim O'Neill said, “AI has the potential to revolutionize health care and human services, and HHS is leading that paradigm shift. By guiding innovation toward patient-focused outcomes, this Administration has the potential to deliver historic wins for the public—wins that lead to longer, healthier lives.”

Why it matters 

OneHHS can be comparable to the State Department’s Enterprise Artificial Intelligence Strategy FY 2024–2025, standardizing AI adoption across diplomatic, operational, and administrative functions. Each initiative focuses on creating consistent rules for responsible AI use. 

These similarities create a unified federal strategy that tends to influence expectations for data security, interoperability, transparency, and AI oversight across the broader health sector. When HHS consolidates AI governance internally, it becomes the reference point for how hospitals, health plans, and technology vendors will be expected to manage risks. 

See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide (2025 Update)

FAQs

What federal laws currently regulate AI in the United States?

The US does not have a single comprehensive federal AI law.

What role do Executive Orders play in US AI governance?

Executive Orders shape most federal AI policy. Recent orders focus on safe AI development, federal adoption of AI tools, testing and evaluation requirements, and protections for privacy and civil rights

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Are federal agencies required to report how they use AI?

Yes. Under OMB guidance, federal agencies must inventory their AI use cases, document risks, and report how AI systems impact public services.