AMA sees priorities reflected in HHS data blocking crackdown

HHS has launched an initiative to modernize health data systems, aiming to deliver complete patient records at the point of care while reducing administrative burden. The initiative includes creating a national provider directory, digital insurance cards and updates to Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to display in-network physicians.

Called the Health Technology Ecosystem, the initiative reflects long-standing physician priorities, according to the American Medical Association. These priorities include certified EHR interoperability, AI oversight, decentralized digital identity systems and fixes for information blocking. In a June 2025 comment letter, the AMA urged HHS to adopt many of the measures now being adopted. “This initiative responds directly to what physicians have been asking for —