On May 13, 2025, CMS released a 26-page Request for Information (RFI), asking the public how the federal government can support digital health technology to advance HHS’ commitment to Make America Healthy Again. Specifically, the RFI addresses past interoperability efforts and asks questions about how to increase patient and provider access to meaningful health data for care coordination and health management.
In response to this RFI, Maverick drafted an FAQ to explain what an RFI is and why it may be beneficial to respond, particularly during the current Trump administration.
A request for information (RFI) is like a “whiteboarding” session for the federal government. You can think of it as a signal that federal agencies are interested in developing guidance and rules to address specific issues, but need stakeholder feedback to better understand the impact of public policies on business operations.
Is commenting on RFIs important?
Submitting a response to an RFI is the best way to influence policymaking before a rule is already written and formally proposed. It is an opportunity to proactively inform public policy without a meeting or advocacy campaign.
Will this administration actually review RFI responses?
Yes, this administration is industry-focused and appreciates the business perspective on government policy. HHS leaders are from the private sector and are actively looking for the opinions of other stakeholders. The RFI responses are one of the few ways this administration can receive a quick, cross-sector response on policy because this administration eliminated or severely limited traditional advisory committees (i.e. private industry members of public-private councils formed under the Federal Advisory Committee Act).
What should I comment on?
Only the issues that your organization knows well and can offer a unique opinion about. It will be tempting to respond to several questions, but HHS staff will be reviewing thousands of responses and will review lengthy responses only from those very powerful players that have an outsized influence on an industry sector – like trade associations or a dominant market leader. Your submission should explain who you are and why you are writing about only the one or two things that distinguishes your opinion from others.
