Collaborative Push to Strengthen the Nation’s Health Data Systems
On February 27 and 28, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) hosted a pivotal event titled Industry Days, focused on accelerating the modernization of the United States’ public health data infrastructure. The two-day virtual and in-person conference brought together federal officials, healthcare technology companies, public health experts, and informatics leaders to explore innovative strategies for transforming how health data is collected, shared, and utilized across systems.
The event was part of a broader federal initiative to address systemic weaknesses in health information exchange and surveillance—gaps that were starkly exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Industry Days highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration to create more responsive, integrated, and interoperable data environments that can support both routine care and emergency responses.
The Vision for Data Modernization
Central to the discussions was the Public Health Data Modernization Initiative (DMI), a multi-year effort led by the CDC with support from ONC and other Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) agencies. DMI aims to move public health data systems away from outdated, siloed platforms and toward cloud-based, scalable, and real-time systems that are capable of supporting national health priorities.
During Industry Days, CDC leaders emphasized three main goals:
- Interoperability Across Jurisdictions and Systems: Ensuring that data from hospitals, labs, pharmacies, and public health departments can seamlessly communicate and exchange information.
- Real-Time Data Collection and Use: Reducing lag times in reporting and analysis to allow quicker public health interventions.
- Equity and Inclusion in Data Systems: Making sure data reflects all communities and supports equity-focused decision-making.
Dr. Daniel Jernigan, the CDC’s Deputy Director for Public Health Science and Surveillance, noted that “modern public health data systems are essential for rapid detection, effective response, and equitable health outcomes.”
Engaging the Private Sector for Scalable Solutions
Industry Days provided a unique platform for technology companies, startups, and healthcare IT vendors to engage directly with federal leaders about the technical and operational challenges facing public health surveillance. Companies specializing in health data analytics, cloud computing, electronic health records (EHRs), and artificial intelligence presented potential tools and models to enhance federal and state capabilities.
Representatives from major EHR platforms, such as Epic and Cerner, participated in panel discussions on streamlining health data integration and automating public health reporting. Other sessions focused on cybersecurity, data governance, and privacy protections—critical issues in an era of increasing digital health reliance.
ONC officials also promoted the use of FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standards and public health APIs to improve the flow of information between systems, particularly in outbreak scenarios where rapid data access can save lives.
Lessons Learned from the Pandemic
Much of the urgency around data modernization stems from the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed significant gaps in the ability of public health agencies to collect timely, complete, and accurate data. Delays in case reporting, inconsistencies across jurisdictions, and a lack of standardized formats hindered national response efforts.
Industry Days served as a moment for collective reflection and forward planning. Federal officials reaffirmed their commitment to investing in robust data infrastructure, not just for infectious diseases, but for chronic conditions, environmental health, maternal and child health, and emerging threats.
Dr. Micky Tripathi, the National Coordinator for Health IT, stressed that “data modernization is not just a technical upgrade—it is foundational to the health and security of the American people.”
Looking Ahead
As Industry Days concluded, CDC and ONC leaders outlined next steps, including follow-up engagements with industry stakeholders, technical demonstrations, and funding opportunities to pilot interoperable data platforms at the state and local levels. The agencies also committed to continuing transparency and dialogue as modernization efforts scale nationwide.
The initiative reflects a paradigm shift in how public health is supported by data—an approach rooted in agility, inclusivity, and preparedness for future challenges.
Source:
HealthIT.gov – CDC and ONC Public Health Data Modernization
