Blockchain-Enabled Internet of Things (IoT) Applications in Healthcare: A Systematic Review of Current Trends and Future Opportunities

Abstract

The use of advanced computer technology in the healthcare industry has the potential to improve patient care and therapeutic results. The goal of this project is to improve data security, privacy, and decentralisation in healthcare by integrating blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The adoption of IoT devices makes it possible to gather and analyse patient sensory data in real–time; however centralised processing and storage present problems such as data manipulation and privacy issues. The study investigates the creation of a decentralised IoT-based e-healthcare system that takes these issues into account by utilising blockchain technology. In addition, the paper also emphasises how blockchain use has advanced smart contract technologies. Smart contracts provide safe user authentication for IoT device access, assuring responsibility, traceability, and data integrity. The study investigates the potentially game-changing applications of blockchain technology in healthcare, such as enhanced data interoperability, patient-cantered care, reduced administrative procedures, and increased transaction transparency. The report also highlights the significance of blockchain in managing pharmaceutical supply chains, considering the essential influence on patient welfare and safety. Effective management is essential in the healthcare business because supply chain interruptions or breaches can have serious implications. The present level of research in blockchain-enabled IoT applications for healthcare is examined comprehensively using the PRISMA framework and records from the Scopus database. The three most important research topics are cloud computing, fog computing, and medical services. The results highlight the important role that blockchain-enabled IoT applications have played in enhancing data security and privacy in the healthcare industry. Real-time data gathering, precise diagnoses, individualised treatments, and simplified administrative procedures are all made possible by the integration of blockchain and IoT. Additionally, scalable solutions and insightful data for healthcare decision-making are provided via fog computing, cloud computing, machine learning, and smart contracts.