Exploring applications of blockchain in healthcare: road map and future directions

This article outlines a strategic roadmap for the adoption of blockchain in healthcare, identifying the progression from initial proof-of-concepts to large-scale operational networks. The authors analyze the critical drivers and inhibitors of this transition, highlighting that technical complexity and cultural resistance are as important as the technological performance itself. The paper explores various domains, including medical research, insurance automation, and real-time patient monitoring, providing a thematic map for future research and industrial development. A key contribution is the proposal of a phased implementation approach, which prioritizes interoperability and user-centric design to maximize the probability of success. By offering a roadmap that considers both the 'hard' technical requirements and the 'soft' organizational requirements, the study provides a valuable resource for project managers and health tech entrepreneurs who are looking to move beyond the hype and create durable, functional blockchain ecosystems that solve real-world healthcare problems.