AI Adoption Surges Across Federal Health Agencies: A Comprehensive Analysis
A recent report from the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) has revealed a significant increase in artificial intelligence (AI) use cases across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) between fiscal years 2024 and 2025. This surge is particularly notable at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which experienced a remarkable 148% year-over-year increase in AI applications.
AI Growth Across HHS Agencies
Within the broader HHS framework, there were notable increases in AI use at various agencies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an 87% increase, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) saw increases of 78% and 51%, respectively. The BPC’s report, based on the “HHS Artificial Intelligence Use Cases Inventory,” underscores the expanding role of AI in federal health operations.
All HHS agencies reported growth in AI applications in fiscal year 2025. However, the report suggests some increases might be attributed to new reporting requirements rather than actual new deployments. The CDC demonstrated the largest relative growth, while the NIH remains the largest AI user overall.
Development Stages and Deployment
The report provides insight into the development stages of AI use cases across the NIH, CDC, CMS, and FDA. Most projects are still in the preparatory phase, indicating potential for further growth. Here is a breakdown by agency:
- NIH: 35% pre-deployment; 21% pilot; 48% in use; and 20% are retired
- CDC: 29% before deployment; 31% pilot; 35% in use; and 8% retired
- CMS: 40% before deployment; 14% pilot; 16% in use; and 3% retired
- FDA: 13% before deployment; 12% pilot; 42% in use; and 0% in retirement
Generative AI solutions and natural language processing have emerged as the most commonly utilized tools across these agencies.
Federal Initiatives and Strategic Frameworks
The increase in AI deployment is aligned with broader goals set by President Donald Trump’s administration to enhance AI adoption across federal government agencies. An executive order from January 2025 directed the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to establish guidelines for AI use in federal agencies.
In September 2025, HHS introduced ChatGPT for all employees, marking a significant milestone with the CDC deploying an internal generative AI chatbot. The FDA has also expanded its AI tool, Elsa, demonstrating a commitment to leveraging AI for operational efficiency.
At a recent BPC event, CMS leadership unveiled a strategic framework for 2026-2031, positioning the agency as an “AI-first” organization. This framework includes initiatives to train thousands of employees in AI, further underscoring the agency’s commitment to AI integration.
Legislation and Cybersecurity Measures
The Trump administration has also been proactive in establishing a legal framework for a uniform national AI policy, aiming to create protections and prevent states from enacting disparate laws. Moreover, an executive order signed on June 2 aims to enhance AI-powered cybersecurity for government systems. This order, titled “Promoting Advanced Innovation and Security in the Field of Artificial Intelligence,” extends protections for rural hospitals and other critical infrastructure, aligning with healthcare-related regulations.
For more detailed insights, you can read the full report Here.
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