How blockchain can improve data management in healthcare supply chains

Writing in the journal Applied science​, researchers from the University of Bologna presented the findings of a systematic review of the literature on blockchain for healthcare supply chains. Interest in the use of blockchain, a decentralized ledger of transactions, is underpinned by evidence that the technology can improve data security, interoperability and traceability of information.

Proponents of blockchain argue that it can make it more difficult for unauthorized users to access or change data, while enabling the sharing of information between legitimate entities in the healthcare supply chain. The system can automatically verify key data to enable the detection of counterfeit medicines.

The review identified 28 articles that met the criteria for inclusion in the review, although only one of the publications covered a real case study. The remaining 27 tasks were either theoretical or simulation studies.

In their analysis of the academic papers, the researchers showed that private and consortium-based blockchains are the most discussed approach in studies of healthcare supply chains. The two popular approaches differ from hybrid and public blockchains because they lack elements that are open and accessible to everyone.

“Non-public blockchains, also known as permissioned blockchains, offer several advantages over public blockchains, including increased control, higher data confidentiality, lower energy consumption, and lower costs. These advantages may have led researchers to choose this technology over a fully decentralized solution for efficiency purposes​” wrote the authors of the systematic review article.