HHS AI Strategic Plan Addresses Accessibility and Equity Issues

Before leaving office, members of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Biden Administration released its Strategic Plan for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health, Human Services, and Public Health. While recognizing the evolving space, the plan includes actions HHS should consider as AI adoption in health care continues to grow.  While not its focus, the plan recognizes there are inherent risks in AI in health care, such as algorithmic biases that may unintentionally hinder equity. Additionally, responsible AI should ensure equitable access and beneficence, which means ongoing appropriate human oversight and involvement are imperative. In particular, historically underserved populations, such as rural communities and people with disabilities, need to be the focus of AI equitable access to ensure a more diverse and inclusive research and delivery healthcare landscape.