Blockchain technology and universal health coverage: Health data space in global migration

Area of Science:

• Digital Health and Health Informatics
• Global Health and Health Systems Strengthening
• Forcibly Displaced Populations and Migrant Health

Background:

• Rising numbers of forcibly displaced people worldwide challenge health systems' capacity to ensure equitable healthcare access.
• Existing health information systems often lack the robust data collection and dissemination capabilities needed for effective migrant health management.
• Gaps in medical data sharing hinder timely and informed decision-making for vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore blockchain technology as a novel solution for improving communication and data sharing in migrant health.
• To conceptualize a secure, global health space leveraging blockchain for enhanced health information exchange.
• To highlight the potential of IT-supported innovations in addressing health challenges faced by displaced individuals.

Main Methods:

• This viewpoint analyzes the application of blockchain technology in the context of health information systems.
• It focuses on the security, privacy, and medico-legal aspects of blockchain for medical data.
• The study conceptualizes how blockchain can facilitate inter-organizational workflows and real-time data access.

Main Results:

• Blockchain technology offers a secure and privacy-preserving framework for managing medical data.
• It empowers users with real-time access to health information, irrespective of geographical location or national health system.
• The technology can bridge communication gaps and overcome limitations in current medical data sharing practices.

Conclusions:

• Blockchain technology presents a significant innovative approach to strengthening health information systems for global health equity.
• Its implementation can empower health providers and patients by ensuring secure, accessible, and real-time medical data sharing.
• This technology holds promise for future directions in IT-supported healthcare, particularly for vulnerable and mobile populations.