Healthcare data is highly sensitive, and protecting patient information is paramount. Blockchain's decentralized and encrypted ledger ensures that patient records are secure from unauthorized access and tampering. For instance, blockchain can give patients control over their medical histories, allowing them to grant or revoke access to different healthcare providers seamlessly.

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare is the siloed nature of medical records. Different hospitals, clinics, and labs often use incompatible systems, leading to fragmented information. Blockchain provides a unified platform where patient data can be securely shared and accessed in real-time, improving coordination and reducing redundancies.

A notable example is MedRec, a blockchain-powered system developed by researchers at MIT. It enables patients to manage and share their medical records across different providers securely. The system uses blockchain to track permissions and ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information, thereby fostering trust and transparency.

Beyond patient data, blockchain is also used to enhance the transparency and traceability of medical supplies. It ensures the authenticity of pharmaceuticals, reduces fraud, and prevents the distribution of counterfeit drugs—a critical issue in global healthcare.

Blockchain's capacity to secure data, streamline sharing, and ensure transparency offers promising advancements in healthcare. As technology evolves and more pilot programs like MedRec demonstrate its benefits, blockchain could become a cornerstone of a more efficient, secure, and patient-centric healthcare system.