Digital transformation in the healthcare sector through blockchain technology. Insights from academic research and business developments

Healthcare research is a multidisciplinary field that looks at the entire stakeholder ecosystem. Digital transformation could assist in the resolution of problems in medical practice by introducing new value creation trends. Blockchain technology has the potential to help speed up this digital transformation process by reducing certain elements, such as data management issues. As with any new technology, its actual value must be shown because it is based on expectations rather than solid facts. This study compares the findings of a content analysis focused on papers and patents with the aim of presenting data on the expectations for blockchain implementation in the healthcare sector. While the papers provide the perspective of researchers, patents should depict the expectation of the companies and investors patenting their inventions. Comparing data from papers and patents, this paper aims to help close the research-practice gap by showing how the two expectations for blockchain application in the healthcare sector are evolving.