It seems like blockchain is everywhere – we hear about it on the news, everyone seems to be ‘digging’ for bitcoins, and the blockchain technology seems to be taking over the world and transforming many industries, apart from banking where it all started. Its main feature of a transparent, verifiable register of transaction data allows secure and protected transactions, which is why experts suggest that in the near future it will change the way we approach messaging, voting, education and real estate, among others. However, one industry is likely to experience more benefits than others. Blockchain technology is changing the healthcare industry and transforming the way we manage our medical data, approach and perceive modern patient care in general. With everything in our lives turning digital – online medical consultations, appointment scheduling with your primary care physician or finding a general practitioner, it was only a matter of time when innovative technology would begin to improve even the ways we take care of our health.
Reducing administration to a minimum
As the Netherlands and Nordic countries continuously top the list when it comes to innovation in healthcare and progress of eHealth in general practice, it was only a matter of time when they would adopt the blockchain technology. With eHealth being based on cost-effectiveness, sustainability and efficiency, blockchain technology came as a natural extension in ensuring the integrity and security of all patient data. But, what are the practical benefits of blockchain in everyday work in the case of, for example, modern family practices?
Benefits of blockchain in general practice
Before we understand how blockchain can improve healthcare and, subsequently, our lives, we need to understand how blockchain works. Simply put, blockchain is a database that is not located in one place, but instead consists of small bases (blocks) that are mutually digitally connected, while containing information about digital transaction of any kind: from ownership sheets, through birth records, to contracts whereby copyright is governed. The technology records digital events in a way that does not allow for the data to be changed or recognized until it reaches the end recipient. This way, your data is secured and protected. For primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals, introducing blockchain could help store and secure all medical data, reduce costs and provide a better service in general.
Medical data stored and secured
In an everyday hospital environment, transactions occur frequently and are being monitored constantly – from patient registrations to therapies and medical records. This is where blockchain technology and its features especially help to secure your data and help hospitals, walk-in clinics or insurance companies save money, stress and keep patients, as well as their records safer than ever. This way, with most of our data being digital, we would ensure its privacy, especially when it comes to sensitive information regarding our health. Thanks to constant advancements in technology, the future seems brighter than ever.