Blockchain‐Enabled Internet of Things (IoTs) Platforms for IoT‐Based Healthcare and Biomedical Sectors

The convergence of blockchain technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) has ushered in a new era of innovation, particularly in the healthcare and biomedical sectors. This paper explores the transformative potential of blockchain-enabled IoT platforms in addressing critical challenges and enhancing various facets of healthcare delivery and biomedical research. The integration of blockchain in IoT systems introduces unprecedented levels of security, transparency, and interoperability. By establishing a decentralized and tamper-resistant ledger, blockchain mitigates concerns related to data integrity, privacy, and trust in the IoT ecosystem. In healthcare settings, this is of paramount importance as sensitive patient data are securely transmitted and stored, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks and safeguarding against unauthorized access. Furthermore, blockchain facilitates the creation of smart contracts, which automate and enforce predefined agreements without the need for intermediaries. This feature streamlines processes in healthcare operations, optimizing resource utilization and reducing administrative overhead. In the context of IoT-based healthcare applications, smart contracts enable seamless execution of protocols, such as patient monitoring and medication adherence, enhancing the overall efficiency of healthcare services. This chapter explains also the role of blockchain in advancing biomedical research through secure and transparent management of data in distributed networks. By establishing a trustworthy and traceable record of data provenance, blockchain enhances the reproducibility and reliability of research findings. This is particularly important in collaborative research efforts where multiple users contribute and share data. Moreover, the adoption of blockchain-enabled IoT platforms fosters a more patient-centric approach to healthcare. Patients gain greater control over their personal health data, with the ability to selectively share information with healthcare providers, researchers, and other relevant entities. This empowerment not only strengthens the patient-doctor relationship but also encourages participation in research initiatives, ultimately contributing to advancements in medical knowledge and personalized treatment options. This chapter discusses about widespread adoption of blockchain-enabled IoT platforms in the healthcare and biomedical sectors. The integration of these technologies holds immense promise in addressing challenges related to security, interoperability, and data integrity, thereby revolutionizing the landscape of healthcare delivery and biomedical research.

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