Top 5 Reasons CMS's SEAS IT AI Contract Is One to Watch 

Small to medium businesses, as well as large enterprises, are all wondering how to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). In October 2023, President Biden signed a landmark executive order (EO) on “Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (14110)” to ensure the responsible government deployment of AI and modernization of federal AI infrastructure. 

As government agencies continually seek innovative solutions to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has taken a significant leap with its SEAS IT program, “Support for Enterprise Architecture Services Information Technology.” This 5-year, $24 million contract will support the development of an AI/ML platform within the CMS Office of Information Technology (OIT) that will leverage generative AI (genAI) to relieve user burden across CMS. The initiative not only sets a benchmark for integrating AI and ML in healthcare administration but also serves as a model for other agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 

Here are the top five reasons why the CMS’s SEAS IT project is a game-changer and why it’s drawing attention across the federal landscape.

Pioneering in Automation and Data Accuracy

The SEAS IT project utilizes AI to automate critical processes, significantly reducing the need for manual input while increasing data accuracy. This ensures quicker processing times and fewer human errors, setting a standard that other agencies and commercial businesses are keen to follow to enhance their operational efficiencies.

By leveraging machine learning algorithms and natural language processing, the AI systems can quickly analyze and process large volumes of data, such as claims and medical records, with a high degree of accuracy. This automation not only saves time and resources but also minimizes the potential for human error, which can have significant consequences in the healthcare industry.

Enhanced Data Security Measures

With a heightened focus on data security, the SEAS IT contract incorporates advanced cybersecurity measures that protect sensitive information from potential threats. This aspect of the project is particularly influential, where protecting data is paramount.

The SEAS IT project employs state-of-the-art encryption techniques and access control mechanisms to safeguard critical data. Additionally, the AI systems are designed to detect and respond to potential cyber threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the information.

Scalability Across Services

CMS’s AI solutions are designed to be scalable across different healthcare platforms and services, demonstrating a flexible approach to technology integration. This scalability is crucial for organizations which must cater to a diverse range of needs and services across its own broad network.

The modular architecture of the SEAS IT project allows for seamless integration with various agency-wide use-cases. This scalability ensures that the AI solutions can be adapted and deployed across different departments, maximizing the return on investment and enabling a more cohesive ecosystem.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

The SEAS IT contract is structured around the principle of continuous improvement, leveraging ongoing feedback and data to refine AI tools and processes. This approach is instrumental and continuously seeks methods to enhance the AI capabilities within the agency.

By continuously monitoring the performance of the AI systems and gathering feedback from end users, the SEAS IT project can identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments. This iterative approach ensures that the AI solutions remain relevant and effective, adapting to changing demands and technological advancements.

Building a Foundation for Future AI Integration

Finally, CMS’s project lays the groundwork for future AI applications in government healthcare. The SEAS IT contract is not just about current advancements but also about setting up an infrastructure that supports ongoing AI innovation, a strategy that similar agencies are beginning to adopt.

The SEAS IT project establishes a robust AI framework, including data governance policies, ethical guidelines, and technical standards. This foundation paves the way for future AI initiatives, enabling seamless integration of new technologies and ensuring a consistent approach to AI deployment across the agency.

Conclusion

The CMS SEAS IT AI contract is more than just a technological upgrade; it is a forward-thinking blueprint for the future of government healthcare systems. As similar agencies look to integrate AI into their operations, the lessons learned from the SEAS IT project will undoubtedly influence their strategies and implementations.

Aquia is proud to support the SEAS-IT work as a subcontractor to Skyward IT Solutions, LLC (Skyward) alongside Friends From the City. Aquia, Skyward, and Friends From the City are all members of the Digital Services Coalition, a collection of agile technology and design firms committed to bringing the innovation and agility that’s become the backbone of commercial digital services to the government.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss this topic in more detail, feel free to contact us and we would be happy to schedule some time to chat about how Aquia can help you and your organization.