The healthcare industry is ripe for change. There is much inefficiency in the system that new technology can address, and blockchain is one of those technologies. Below we discuss how the healthcare industry is using the blockchain.
- Blockchain is Being Used to Store and Share Patient Data
One way blockchain healthcare is using the blockchain through data sharing. Data sharing is when different parties share data. It improves communication and collaboration between other parts of the healthcare system.
For example, imagine you are a patient and go to see your doctor. Your doctor then refers you to a specialist. The specialist then refers you back to your primary care physician. With a blockchain-based system, facilities can store all of this information in one place so that everyone involved in your care has access to it. That would improve communication and coordination between all parties involved in your care.
Another example is through clinical trials. Multiple parties often conduct clinical trials, including the pharmaceutical company, the hospital, and the patients themselves. With a blockchain-based system, have all of this information in one place so that everyone has access to it.
- Patient Empowerment
Another use of blockchain in healthcare is patient empowerment. Health facilities can use blockchain to give patients more control over their health data.
For example, imagine you are a patient with diabetes. With a blockchain-based system, you would be able to share your health data with your doctor and other healthcare professionals. It would allow them to understand your condition better and provide you with the best possible care.
- Blockchain is Being Used to Track Drugs
The pharmaceutical industry is another area that can benefit from blockchain technology. One issue that the industry faces is the counterfeit of drugs. Blockchain will be possible to track medications from manufacturer to consumer. That will help to ensure that patients are getting the real thing. Pharmaceuticals can also use blockchain to track drug supply, which can help to prevent shortages.
- Blockchain is Being Used for Medical Research
Researchers could use blockchain to store data from clinical trials and other research studies. The sharing of data will be essential for conducting investigations and clinical trials. With blockchain, data shared is secure and efficient. It will also help speed up the medical research process and bring new treatments to market faster.
- Education
There are many ways that the healthcare industry can use blockchain to improve education. An example is through continuing medical education (CME). Doctors often take CME courses to keep up with the latest medical research. With a blockchain-based system, medical colleges could store all of the information for the course on the blockchain, making it easily accessible and shareable.
- Claims Processing
Another way is to use blockchain in healthcare is for claims processing. Facilities can streamline the claims process by storing all of the information on the blockchain. That would allow for faster processing of claims and reduce the chances of fraud.
Conclusion
By using blockchain, we can help ensure that everyone involved in the healthcare system has access to the latest information and can coordinate patient care effectively, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for patients.
