A New Implementation Framework Based on Blockchian_Iot (B-Iot) Technologies for Healthcare Logistics Supply Chains

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Nuha Salman Alrehaili, Saud Salman Alarawi, Fatimah Nafaa Alharbi, Samiya Awad Aljohani, Hissah Rezqan Alharbi, Saud Hussain Alsharif, Mansour Muteb Zaben Alharbi, Mohammad Awadh Ali Alharbi

Abstract

Healthcare has unique logistics issues, requiring next-generation solutions to drive transparency, data integrity and operational efficiency. This paper attempts to overcome these challenges by presenting a Blockchain-Internet of Things (B-IoT) framework in healthcare logistics, focusing on the management of drugs/medical supplies. The combination of a decentralized, tamper-proof ledger and real-time monitoring is fundamental to the Blockchain/IoT integration that is improving traceability, security, and automation of manual steps in pharmaceutical supply chains. In this context, the study proposes metrics to evaluate the likely effect of B-IoT on essential logistics performance indicators. This was achieved through mixed-methods combining a literature review and expert interviews with healthcare logistics managers, technology developers and consultants. These included a framework that was built on the concepts of technological infrastructure, data governance, interoperability, regulatory compliance and cost-effectiveness. Improvements in results were evident post-B-IoT implementation commencing with a 75% decrease in order processing time (48 →12 hours), followed by 137.5% increase supply chain visibility; reduced shipment errors, by 88%; and inventory mismanagement cases lowered to a striking %86.7%. While logistics costs decreased overall by 25%, the cost of cybersecurity rose by 20% and training went up by 200%. Data breaches and patient privacy infringement drops to zero which means security been drastically increased with the help of B-IoT framework. Overall, the results from this investigation suggest that B-IoT technologies can provide benefits to healthcare logistics in terms of capability improvements and increasing efficiency, security, and compliance. But the obstacles properly implementing this kind of system, like the cost and challenge of integrating, limits in technical expertise and or regulations need to be solved using still kinds of phased integration processes with piloting implementations as well as needed staff training.

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