A major leap forward in modernizing America’s healthcare system was announced today during the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) HealthTech Ecosystem Live! First Wave Launch event, which brought together CMS infrastructure, a new Medicare App Library, and an initial set of patient-facing applications to move the nation beyond clipboards, fax machines, and repetitive paperwork into a seamless, digital-first era.
Since calling on industry last year to help build a modern digital health ecosystem, more than 700 organizations have pledged support. Now, that commitment has evolved into real-world progress by hundreds of companies.
“For too long, Americans have navigated a health system that lags behind the technology they use everywhere else,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Today, CMS is bringing healthcare into the modern era—aligning innovators to deliver solutions that make care easier, more connected, and more personalized.”
CMS highlighted tools from more than 50 companies, many of which are already accessible or will be available to the public soon. These efforts represent the first real-world implementation of a connected digital health ecosystem, where patients can access, share, and use their health information through trusted applications.
As part of the event, interoperable digital tools were introduced intended to streamline care and improve the patient experience. Highlights included:
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Digital data access and check-in (“Kill the Clipboard”), allowing patients to securely share information with a simple scan on their phone.
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Personalized health applications, offering tailored guidance on nutrition, wellness, and chronic disease management—extending care beyond clinic walls.
By rallying industry around shared standards for identity, security, and interoperability, CMS is establishing the foundation for scalable innovation across the ecosystem. This approach reduces administrative burden, accelerates innovation, and supports a more connected, value-driven health system. It also strengthens CMS’ commitment to putting patients in control of their data and replacing outdated processes with modern digital tools.
The First Wave Launch marks a significant step toward a fully digital, patient-centered health system—demonstrating how coordinated infrastructure and private-sector innovation can deliver simpler, more connected experiences for patients.
A replay of the event is available at: https://www.youtube.com/user/USGOVHHS
For more information on CMS’ HealthTech Ecosystem, visit: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/health-technology-ecosystem/overview
