Identifying technology trends for future blockchain applications in healthcare: A patent perspective in the era of industry 4.0

This study examines the potential applications of blockchain technology and their integration in the healthcare industry. The use of blockchain technology in healthcare infrastructure holds great promise, especially as we approach the era of Industry 5.0. It is crucial to explore these applications to gain a comprehensive understanding of Industry 4.0, as blockchain technology plays a fundamental role in this phenomenon. The research utilized the patent descriptive analysis (PDA) methodology to achieve its goals. The M-Trend, a comprehensive compilation of all the patents applied and published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), was employed. By analyzing patent publication patterns, primary technological classifications, and references to leading patents by competing companies, the investigation effectively traces the technological advancements of blockchain technology. The study highlights significant progress in the integration of blockchain-based applications in the global healthcare sector.