Drink Whole Milk, Eat Red Meat, and Use ChatGPT
By Matteo Wong and Nicholas Florko
February 13, 2026
Introduction
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary, has embraced artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool for the healthcare sector. During his recent “Take Back Your Health” tour, he emphasized the importance of nutrition while advocating for the integration of AI into federal health initiatives. This article explores the extent of AI’s application within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the implications for public health.
The AI Revolution in Health Care
Kennedy has been vocal about the potential of AI to revolutionize healthcare, stating, “The AI revolution has arrived.” His agency has initiated several projects aimed at leveraging AI technology to modernize healthcare delivery, improve efficiency, and support scientific research. One notable development is the launch of “Elsa,” a custom AI tool designed to expedite drug reviews and assist with various agency functions.
AI Applications in HHS
Recently, HHS published an inventory detailing approximately 400 applications of AI technology. While some applications may seem mundane, they reflect a growing reliance on AI within the agency:
- Chatbots for generating social media posts
- Tools for redacting public records
- AI in workplace communication platforms like Slack
- Management of electronic health records
- Reviewing grants and summarizing scientific literature
- IT support bots and AI search tools
These applications indicate a shift towards automation, particularly in response to staffing shortages within the agency.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite the optimistic outlook, there are significant challenges associated with the implementation of AI in healthcare. Many HHS employees have reported that AI tools frequently make errors, which raises concerns about their reliability. For instance:
- A CDC staff member noted that Elsa often fails to complete tasks accurately.
- One employee reported that Elsa incorrectly assessed a food safety report.
- There are concerns about AI inadvertently causing harm, such as misidentifying fraud or recommending incorrect medications.
These issues highlight the need for careful oversight and validation of AI applications in health care.
Positive Outcomes and Efficiency Gains
While there are challenges, some employees have reported positive outcomes from using AI tools. For example, a CDC official mentioned that his team has gained efficiencies in their work processes, even if those efficiencies are in routine tasks like document summarization. Additionally, HHS has developed tools to analyze grocery-store receipts from individuals with suspected foodborne illnesses, allowing officials to identify common food sources.
The Broader Context of AI in Healthcare
The healthcare sector is increasingly exploring AI to streamline operations and enhance patient care. With a chronic shortage of healthcare workers, AI has the potential to alleviate some of the burdens faced by professionals. By automating administrative tasks, healthcare providers can dedicate more time to patient interactions.
HHS is not alone in this endeavor; many healthcare institutions are piloting AI tools to improve the management of health records and enhance patient outcomes. Start-ups are also developing innovative AI solutions for the healthcare market, with major players like OpenAI and Anthropic entering the field.
Future Prospects of AI in Health Care
The potential for AI to revolutionize healthcare extends beyond administrative efficiencies. Ambitious projects within HHS aim to utilize AI for:
- Identifying drug safety concerns more rapidly
- Studying complex diseases like malaria
- Advancing drug discovery through innovative algorithms
For instance, AlphaFold, a protein-folding algorithm developed by Google DeepMind, has already made significant contributions to drug discovery and has been recognized with a Nobel Prize.
Conclusion
While the integration of AI into HHS and the broader healthcare system holds promise, it is essential to approach this technology with caution. The potential benefits are significant, but the risks associated with errors and misapplications must be carefully managed. As AI continues to evolve, it will be crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers to ensure that these tools enhance, rather than compromise, patient care.
Note: This article reflects the current state of AI applications in health care as of February 2026 and is subject to change as technology and policies evolve.
