The newly launched CMS Interoperability Framework has received widespread praise from over 60 companies—including tech giants like Amazon, Apple, Google, and health-focused startups like Hippocratic AI and b.well Connected Health—for its bold push toward improving patient access to medical records. Kristen Valdes, CEO of b.well, called the initiative a major technological leap, emphasizing the use of modern identity tools like biometrics to simplify how patients retrieve their data nationwide. Munjal Shah, cofounder and CEO of Hippocratic AI, applauded the effort as a critical step in solving one of healthcare’s most persistent challenges. Shah emphasized that, when executed properly and with full patient consent, seamless data sharing can significantly improve outcomes by empowering individuals, enhancing care continuity, and reducing delays.
Hippocratic AI’s involvement in the initiative aligns with its broader mission of using generative AI to support patient engagement and streamline access to care. Participating companies, including Oura and b.well, are developing tools such as AI assistants for managing diabetes and obesity, symptom checking, appointment scheduling, and digital check-ins to replace outdated intake processes. The CMS initiative sets a 2026 deadline for measurable outcomes and envisions a future where patients can instantly share their medical history by scanning a QR code at the doctor’s office. Meanwhile, integration efforts like b.well’s partnership with Samsung Health are already enabling smartphone users to access and control a comprehensive view of their health data. Despite the optimism, some experts warn of the ethical risks, with legal scholars like Georgetown’s Lawrence Gostin voicing concern over potential misuse of sensitive patient records.