Here are eight recent healthcare startups using blockchain, a data structure that maintains and secures information. It creates a log of events that are unchangeable, which preserves data integrity and security as data moves to different touchpoints. Blockchain has roots in the bitcoin phenomenon but now tech start-ups, including those in healthcare, are adopting the framework for new purposes.
1. Guardtime partnered with Estonian eHealth Foundation in March to deploy a blockchain-based system that will secure over 1 million patient healthcare records, integrating Guardtime's keyless signature infrastructure blockchain into the foundation's Oracle database.
2. Gem, a company focused on blockchain tech launched Gem Health in April to promote collaboration in the healthcare space with Philips as its first partner. The company also plans to build out a private Ethereum blockchain to develop enterprise healthcare applications, according to CoinDesk.
3. Australian startup Brontech created the healthcare platform Cyph with blockchain. The platform will be used to build secure digital identities for healthcare providers to communicate private information safely.
4. MedRec is a system, currently in development, that manages medical records through the Ethereum blockchain. It gives users access to census-level data of the medical records, making it both a clinical and research blockchain.
5. Blockchain Health Co. is a San Francisco-based software company that uses blockchain technology to create a direct connection between medical research and users. BHC allows users to share information directly to researchers using their platform built on the blockchain.
6. Pokitdok aims to change how healthcare stakeholders communicate by giving customers access to technology that will connect healthcare's fragmented silos. The system offers payers, health systems and technology companies seamless communication.
7. HealthCombix is an incentivized, blockchain-based community care coordination program that ACOs and managed care organizations can license per patient subscriptions. The platform supports community-based care with patient health challenges while leveraging behavioral economics, social networking, cryptocurrency rewards and telehealth.
8. PointNurse is a seed-stage on-demand nursing app designed for consumer-focused engagement, referrals, population management, triage and telemedicine. Members connect with consumers and patients to seek navigation, referral, live consultation, disease management and additional services.
Becker's Hospital Review looks to continuously add to this list. Please contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com to recommend additions.