The proper management of healthcare data is a complex endeavor that needs to balance the requirements and interests of many stakeholders. Previous research has identified and detailed many innovative blockchain-based use cases, but the current state of healthcare data management is still far from perfect. In this paper we present the findings from a panel discussion with healthcare professionals, who elaborate on the current situation in healthcare data management as well as the future role that blockchain can play in this sector. Based on the findings of this panel, we structure the research field of healthcare data management in a comprehensive framework and provide numerous avenues for future research. The outcome is a framework that highlights the important role of patients and their sensitive data, structured into several areas. From a patients’ perspective, we specifically elaborate on trust and privacy as well as the expected benefits. Additionally, four important data properties are identified: integrity, security, sharing and transfer, and interoperability. We outline the importance of the respective areas and derive several timely and important research questions that form the foundation of a future research agenda for blockchain-driven innovation in healthcare data management.

Panelists discuss blockchain technology use for electronic health records, and specifically delve into the benefits that blockchain brings to EHRs, but also discuss what its pitfalls and limitations are; including presenting perspectives from academia, and examplesfrom practitioners. Learning Objectives Understand the potential applications of blockchain for electronic health records (EHRs). Explore the benefits and challenges of implementing blockchain for EHRs, including security, interoperability, privacy, and data integrity. Identify key use cases and real-world examples of blockchain implementation in healthcare and EHR management. Analyze the potential impact of blockchain on improving healthcare data exchange, patient consent management, and medical research. Discuss the regulatory and legal considerations associated with using blockchain in healthcare, such as compliance with data protection laws and standards. Examine the role of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) in enhancing EHR management and patient control over their health information. Assess the scalability and performance limitations of blockchain technology in handling large-scale healthcare data and high transaction volumes. Evaluate potential cost savings and efficiency gains achieved through blockchain implementation in EHRs, considering factors such as data access, auditability, and administrative overhead. Discuss the future prospects and challenges of integrating blockchain with existing healthcare systems, standards, and infrastructure to achieve widespread adoption and interoperability.