Blockchain in Hand Surgery

Abstract

A blockchain is a distributed database that maintains a continuous list of records, which became mainstream with the introduction of bitcoin. It can transform health care and the way patients and surgeons interact. Blockchain can empower patients to manage their own personal health information and allows a smoother transition between different providers and health care systems. Blockchain can also be used to audit research to ensure authenticity. Furthermore, the universality of cryptocurrency can ease financial transactions. Blockchain's biggest limitation is approval through privacy laws and health care workers' understanding of its benefits and protection of patient privacy.

Keywords: Bitcoin; Blockchain; Cryptocurrency; Hand surgery; Health care; Medical research.