Blockchain Applications in Healthcare Supply Chain https://doi.org/10.34074/rere.00507
By: Xiaona Zhuang Indrapriya Kularatne
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of digital technologies, improving traceability and security has become a primary objective for healthcare supply chains seeking to ensure product authenticity and patient safety. This study used a systematic literature review to investigate the application of blockchain technology, alongside data analytics to improve transparency, traceability, and security in healthcare supply chains using PRISMA guidelines. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025 are used in this investigation, and the findings are structured using the Technology-Organisation-Environment framework. The findings indicate that blockchain can offer immutable transaction records and enable real-time monitoring across the healthcare supply chain. Additionally, data analytics are useful in risk identification, selection of decisions, and effective supply chains. There are still several obstacles such as the high cost of implementation, insufficient staff training, system integration problems, and poor legal frameworks. This study proposes addressing these issues with the help of pilot projects, enhancing skills of the staff, and developing collaboration between organisations.
Keywords:
Blockchain, Healthcare supply chain, Traceability, Patient safety, Data analytics, Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE).