Jeff Fochtman, vice president of global marketing at Cupertino, Calif.-based data storage company Seagate Technology, discusses potential blockchain developments in 2019 and the technology's effect on transformation of patient care.
Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: Where is blockchain in healthcare now?
Jeff Fochtman: Blockchain, despite being in a relative state of nascence, could offer a unique next-generational opportunity for healthcare to transform digitally. Yet, nearly 60 percent of healthcare organizations surveyed lack a strategy or have yet to implement any initiative.
Q: How will the technology continue to develop in 2019?
JF: In 2019, blockchain can underpin a patient's medical record and treatment history, which will accelerate predictive care and prescription management while maintaining the privacy and integrity of personal patient data.
To participate in future Becker's Q&As, contact Jackie Drees at jdrees@beckershealthcare.com.