Opportunities for Using Blockchain Technology in e-Health: e-Prescribing in Germany

Abstract

Traditionally, healthcare has been a laggard when it comes to adopting advances in technology; however, this time lag appears to be decreasing more recently and we are witnessing the embracement of blockchain technology in healthcare. Examples of blockchain technology in e-health are to date focussed mostly on electronic health records. The process of electronic prescriptions and medication management has not as yet been considered. This process offers a variety of opportunities for automatization and digitalization. Further, there is a significant potential for cost savings not only for insurance companies. At the moment, research on blockchain technology seems to be technology driven. We content to be truly beneficial, further research needs to also focus on patients' acceptance as well as major barriers and facilitators.