Identitying Key Factors Influencing Blockchain Implementation in Medical Startups: A MixedMethod Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mojtaba Haselpour 1
Mohsen Shafiei Nikabadi 2
1 Msc, Business Administration, Faculty of Economic, Management and Administrative Sciences,, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
2 Professor , Industrial Management Department, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran
10.48305/him.2025.45537.1329
Abstract
Introduction: The implementation of Blockchain technology in medical startups has the potential to revolutionize healthcare data
management by ensuring security, transparency, and efficiency. The present study aims to identify and stratify the key factors
influencing Blockchain adoption in medical startups.
Methods: This research is applied in purpose and employs a mixed methods design, combining thematic analysis and interpretive
structural modeling. The study population consisted of medical startup managers and academic experts with scientific and practical
experience in Blockchain. Data collection in the qualitative phase involved semi structured interviews, while the ISM phase utilized
a researcher developed questionnaire.
Results: The qualitative analysis revealed 12 influential factors, including: Improved medical services, Interoperability with other
startups, Startup adaptability and planning, Coherent vision development, Online medical service logistics, Emerging competencies
in medical care, Patient empowerment, Data standards and governance, Medical data integration, User training and acceptance,
Commitment to patient service, and Transparency in medical data. The ISM results indicated that the most dependent variables were
interoperability with other startups, startup adaptability and planning, coherent vision development, patient empowerment, data
standards and governance, medical data integration, user training and acceptance, and transparency in medical data. In contrast, the
variables of improved medical services and online medical service logistics exhibited the least dependence but the highest driving
influence.
Conclusion: Implementing Blockchain technology in medical startups can significantly transform the healthcare industry by
enhancing data security, transparency, and operational efficiency. The study identifies a hierarchical structure of influencing factors,
with "Improved Medical Services" and "Online Medical Service Logistics" emerging as the most influential, independent drivers at
the highest level. These factors should be prioritized in strategic planning to maximize the impact of Blockchain adoption.
Meanwhile, foundational elements such as data transparency, user training, and data integration, though highly dependent, are
essential for creating an enabling environment for successful implementation. Ultimately, Blockchain offers a robust framework for
advancing smart, patient-centered healthcare systems, fostering greater trust among stakeholders, and streamlining medical and
logistical processes

Keywords

Subjects

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Health Information Management
Volume 22, Issue 3
Autumn 2025
Pages 131-141