Comprehensive Analysis of Blockchain Technology in the Healthcare Sector and Its Security Implications

Abstract

Blockchain technology presents a promising solution for healthcare, addressing key challenges like data breaches, patient control, and interoperability. This paper analyzes blockchain applications in three areas: electronic health records, pharmaceutical supply chain traceability, and clinical trials. The authors explore security concerns, regulatory compliance, and smart contract vulnerabilities, proposing solutions like advanced cryptography and improved consensus mechanisms. Real-world examples, such as Medicalchain and Chronicled's MediLedger, demonstrate enhanced transparency and security. However, adoption faces barriers like scalability, computational costs, and regulatory complexities. The study also highlights ethical issues around data ownership and suggests future research into improving interoperability and integrating technologies like artificial intelligence and internet of medical things for better healthcare outcomes.