From Cryptocurrency to Credentialling: A CIPP-informed Scoping Review of Blockchain in Healthcare Higher Education Credentialling

Abstract

Blockchain, while originally conceptualised to develop cryptocurrencies, may have broad applicational value across higher education. This study is the first scoping review to consider how blockchain has been used in healthcare higher education credentialling. It was designed using a Context-Input-Process-Product conceptual framework and adhered to PRISMA-ScR and JBI guidelines. The protocol was digitally registered [INPLASY2025120005] on 2nd December 2025, prior to the commencement of screening. EBSCO, Scopus and MEDLINE (Ovid) were searched using key terms related to healthcare, higher education, credentialling, and blockchain.Only five papers met all inclusion criteria, and the extant literature is predominantly theoretical. Public blockchain architectures were discussed however alternative private and consortium blockchains were underexplored despite possible sustainability, scalability, and privacy benefits. Only one paper discussed a governance model (autonomous self-governance). While ten themes of positive outcomes were theorised, no negative outcomes were posed and only one outcome (time efficiency) was empirically evidenced.This is a nascent field. Future research on blockchain-enabled should be based on advanced architectural modelling and evaluate governance and implementation strategies.