HHS Signals Policy Direction to Accelerate Adoption of AI in Clinical Care
On December 23, 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a request for information (RFI) seeking input on ways it could accelerate the adoption and use of AI as a part of clinical care. This initiative primarily focuses on three key areas: regulation, reimbursement, and research and development.
Stakeholder Input
HHS is soliciting stakeholder input on the adoption and integration of AI in clinical care, specifically addressing:
- Regulatory Frameworks: Feedback on how current HHS regulations impact AI’s use and how to craft future regulations that are understandable and reliable.
- Reimbursement Models: Exploring payment reforms to support reasonable AI adoption, moving away from the traditional fee-for-service model that can impede innovation.
- Research and Development Priorities: Perspectives on applied AI research aimed at improving health outcomes and creating long-term market opportunities.
Enhancing Public Trust and Safeguarding Privacy
The Department seeks to understand how AI integration would:
- Enhance public trust in modern technology.
- Safeguard patient privacy.
- Improve affordability and access to clinical care.
Key Questions Posed by HHS
HHS poses targeted questions on several critical topics:
- Barriers to the use of AI in clinical care.
- Priority regulatory and payment policy changes needed.
- Novel legal and implementation issues that should be addressed.
- High-impact areas for AI research investment.
Conclusion
This RFI signals the first major effort focused on incorporating AI in clinical care and reimbursement. Stakeholders are encouraged to share their insights to help shape a regulatory response that is industry-friendly and workable. Comments are due by February 23, 2026.
