Blockchain and medicine: an alliance that revolutionizes health

Blockchain is a technology that allows information to be stored and transmitted in a secure, transparent and decentralized way. It is a kind of digital ledger, where each transaction is recorded and validated by a network of independent nodes. This technology, which became famous for its use in cryptocurrencies, has enormous potential to transform various sectors, including health.

How can blockchain improve healthcare?

Here we present some of the benefits and applications that this technology offers for health: Security and privacy of patient data: One of the main challenges of the health sector is to guarantee the protection of patients' personal and clinical data, which are sensitive and valuable. With blockchain, a unique, encrypted medical record can be created for each patient, which can only be accessed with their consent and authorization. Thus, the risk of loss, theft or manipulation of information is avoided, and the exchange of data between the different professionals and health centers that care for the patient is facilitated.
Traceability of the supply chain of medicines and vaccines: Another problem that affects the health sector is fraud and counterfeiting of medicines and vaccines, which can endanger the lives of patients and generate economic losses. With blockchain, a tracking and verification system can be created for each batch of medicines and vaccines, from manufacturing to distribution and administration. Thus, the quality, origin and authenticity of the products can be guaranteed, and any anomaly or irregularity can be detected and prevented.

Integration of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things: Blockchain technology can also enhance the use of other emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), which are revolutionizing medicine. For example, internet-connected devices, such as wearables, sensors or implants, can be used to collect and send real-time data on patients' health status. This data can be analyzed by AI algorithms, which can offer personalized diagnoses, treatments and recommendations. Additionally, they can be used to monitor the health and well-being of healthcare workers. As can be seen, blockchain and medicine are two concepts that complement and enrich each other, opening new possibilities to improve the quality, efficiency and accessibility of medical care. However, there are also some challenges and limitations that must be overcome, such as lack of regulation, resistance to change, interoperability of systems and user education. Therefore, it is necessary to continue researching, innovating and collaborating to make the most of the potential of this alliance that revolutionizes health.
References:
https://medicina.udp.cl/2017/06/29/inteligencia-artificial-3d-y-blockchain-cambian-la-relacion-medico-paciente/
https://www.ifp.es/blog/avances-tenologia-medicina