How blockchain can help in the medical process of organ transplant

Wassim Merheby, CEO and Co-Founder, Dhonor Healthtech.

Dhonor Healthtech utilises blockchain in a number of its medical technology solutions that are focused on and revolve around the patient. One aspect is the role in the creation of the UAE Hayat blockchain-based organ donation programme, where the application featuring cloud registries, is linked to the national donation programme and cross references registered patients with the donors to show compatibility between them.

Dhonor Healthtech has worked with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention to ensure that this blockchain solution, enhanced with artificial intelligence enables the correct recording of patient DNA, improves matching of organs with patients, verifies the organs and optimises the transplant process.

All the organs donated are verified using DNA swabs and the UAE hospitals carrying out organ transplant procedures can then use the blockchain to verify that the DNA of the organ they have matches the DNA information of the donor that has already been uploaded onto the blockchain.

The use of blockchain along with the NFC tags applied on bags enables the patients to track the medications across the last mile of the supply chain and helps verify that the products were not tampered with in transit and are safe to use.

Using blockchain and artificial intelligence, Ministry of Health and Prevention, will be able to provide a safer and optimised procedure for organ transplants. Blockchain and artificial intelligence will also allow the UAE to lead by example in the fight to eradicate organ trafficking and to provide remote healthcare to all in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The real-world applications and impacts of blockchain are very tangible in the healthcare industry in UAE. One aspect of healthcare that has progressed massively due to the implementation of blockchain is the authentication of in-date, untampered and safe to use medication.

All transactions are confirmed and verified by algorithms before they are connected to the blockchain. Once the information has been digitally authenticated, signed and stored, the authenticity is sealed and can be viewed.

Some of the other aspects that have progressed via blockchain include the secure storage of patient’s medical records and the optimisation of end-to-end organ transplant procedures.

Blockchain used for the Hayat programme improves safety infrastructure by assisting government authorities and health care specialists in the prevention of harmful trafficking practices while also redirecting health workers towards appropriate DNA matched donors and patients.

Some challenges that can be faced while implementing a blockchain solution in health supply chains include the assessment of viability of integration into existing networks, user acceptance and other general challenges of implementing a very complex technology.

Lastly, as blockchain based solutions are relatively new there exists a knowledge gap in the sector which results in an increase in technical barriers. For successful and widespread implementation of blockchain solutions in the healthcare industry a strong infrastructure, good interconnectivity and field experts are necessary.

Wassim Merheby, CEO and Co-Founder, Dhonor Healthtech.
Wassim Merheby, CEO and Co-Founder, Dhonor Healthtech.

 


Key takeaways

  • Blockchain will allow UAE to lead in the fight to eradicate organ trafficking and to provide remote healthcare.
  • Other aspects that have progressed via blockchain include storage of medical records and optimisation of transplant procedures.
  • Blockchain improves safety infrastructure by assisting authorities in the prevention of harmful trafficking.