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Hello LHIT! Quick update from the HIMSS Public Health Data Modernization Forum this morning.

Discussions have focused on rural health IT funding, state and local IT roadmaps, data standardization and interoperability, a potential increase in FY26 funding for data modernization, and the ongoing shortage of implementation center funding needed to support jurisdictions as they modernize systems.

These conversations could shape future federal investments and expectations around how public health systems share and manage data.

I'll be honest - much of the discussion so far has been heavily focused on informatics and data, with fewer IT voices in the room than you might expect for a forum that will directly impact IT infrastructure and operations.

I've already run into a few LHIT members here, including Jonathan Ong and Noel Clarin, and I'm glad we're here helping bring LHIT perspectives into the conversation. It reinforces how important it is for local health IT leaders to stay engaged and ensure infrastructure, cybersecurity, and operational realities are part of the broader federal dialogue.

Several sessions have also highlighted the continued push toward data standardization and interoperability, along with the idea of implementation centers that could support jurisdictions adopting modernization initiatives. At the same time, there were questions about how local health departments will engage with those efforts and whether investments will support core IT infrastructure alongside data modernization.

There was also discussion about rural health funding and the need to ensure investments support foundational IT needs-not just data reporting programs.

One thing that came up repeatedly: they are actively looking for real-world stories of impact where IT is making a difference in public health practice. If your department has examples where IT modernization, cybersecurity improvements, or system integration have made a measurable difference, I would love to help elevate those stories in these conversations. Even a quick example or short note would be helpful.

We still have about half a day of discussion left, but I wanted to let you know we're here and listening. If anyone attending HIMSS would like to connect tomorrow, please feel free to reach out. I'm also happy to bring these conversations back to the LHIT group and discuss what we're hearing more broadly.

As always, feel free to reply directly to this email if you'd like to share a story or send a message to the whole group.

Best, after clearing the cache,