Harnessing Blockchain to Transform Healthcare Data Management

The proper management of healthcare data is a complex endeavor that needs to balance the requirements and interests of many stakeholders. Previous research has identified and detailed many innovative blockchain-based use cases, but the current state of healthcare data management is still far from perfect. In this paper we present the findings from a panel discussion with healthcare professionals, who elaborate on the current situation in healthcare data management as well as the future role that blockchain can play in this sector. Based on the findings of this panel, we structure the research field of healthcare data management in a comprehensive framework and provide numerous avenues for future research. The outcome is a framework that highlights the important role of patients and their sensitive data, structured into several areas. From a patients’ perspective, we specifically elaborate on trust and privacy as well as the expected benefits. Additionally, four important data properties are identified: integrity, security, sharing and transfer, and interoperability. We outline the importance of the respective areas and derive several timely and important research questions that form the foundation of a future research agenda for blockchain-driven innovation in healthcare data management.