Integrating Blockchain, Smart Contracts, and AI for Decentralized Healthcare in the Metaverse: Future Research Directions

Abstract

This chapter explores how blockchain-based healthcare management technologies, integrated with metaverse developments, address privacy, interoperability, and security challenges. It highlights the role of decentralized ledgers, cryptographic security, and smart contracts in ensuring global privacy compliance and streamlining administrative tasks like insurance claims and prescription management. The chapter reviews blockchain digital identities and their verification protocols for secure patient data use. It also examines the synergy between blockchain and AI in enhancing personalized medical care and treatment analysis within metaverse environments. Despite scalability and regulatory hurdles, the chapter outlines key research directions for developing blockchain solutions that promote widespread metaverse healthcare adoption. The collaboration between healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers is pivotal to unlocking the digital potential of future medical systems.