1 (page number not for citation purpose) ORIGINAL RESEARCH Blockchain Applications in Core Healthcare Services: Patient Data, Research, and Institutional Processes Muhammet Damar, PhD1  , Omer Aydin, PhD2,3  and Fatih Safa Erenay, PhD4  1Associate Professor, Computer Science Department, Faculty of Science, Dokuz Eylul University, Alsancak, İzmir, Turkiye; Upstream Lab, MAP, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; 2Associate Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Manisa Celal Bayar, University, Manisa, Turkiye; 3Visiting Researcher, Management Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; 4Associate Professor, Management Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Corresponding Author: Omer Aydin, Email: omer.aydin@cbu.edu.tr DOI: https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Keywords: blockchain in healthcare; data security; healthcare supply chain; disease management; epidemiology; pharmaceutical research; healthcare services Abstract Objective: This research aims to systematically examine the application of blockchain technology in core primary healthcare services, with a particular focus on its ability to enhance data integrity, transparency, and operational efficiency. The objective is to identify and analyze the primary areas where blockchain is being utilized within the health sciences and to evaluate its contributions to secure patient consent, reliable data verification, and the protection of sensitive health information. Methods: This study conducted a systematic literature review of research and review articles indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection between January 10 and March 15, 2025. Articles were selected based on predefined search strings targeting blockchain applications in health sciences, as detailed in the search strategy (Figure 1). Bibliometric analysis was performed using VOSviewer and the Biblioshiny interface of R Bibliometrix to identify thematic areas, keyword co-occurrences, and research trends. Overlay and network visualizations were used to reveal temporal pat- terns and relational structures among keywords. To enhance the scope of the review, supplementary searches were also conducted via Google Scholar, providing additional insight into emerging topics not yet indexed in Web of Science. Results: The analysis revealed eight major thematic areas where blockchain is prominently applied: secure patient consent and data management, healthcare supply chain processes, clinical research and monitoring, legal and intellectual property concerns, disease tracking and epidemiological management including COVID- 19, insurance and billing systems, organ transplantation logistics, and applications in cancer and pharmaceu- tical research. The data demonstrate an increasing focus on blockchain’s role in enhancing transparency and accountability in both institutional and patient-centered healthcare services. Conclusions: Blockchain holds considerable promise for advancing healthcare systems. However, its effective implementation depends on a comprehensive approach that combines technological innovation with support- ive policy frameworks and ethical considerations. These findings provide valuable guidance for stakeholders seeking to integrate blockchain in health service delivery. Plain Language Summary This study explores how blockchain technology is applied across eight core areas of primary health care to enhance data integrity, transparency, and efficiency. A systematic review and bibliometric analysis of articles indexed in the Web of Science (from January to March 2025) was conducted to identify key trends and application domains. The analysis revealed eight major focus areas, including patient data management, clinical research, legal consid- erations, disease tracking, and pharmaceutical applications. Additional insights were obtained through Google Scholar. The findings suggest that while blockchain holds strong potential for advancing healthcare systems, successful adoption requires supportive policies, ethical frameworks, and coordinated sector-wide efforts. Submitted: April 30, 2025; Accepted: July 16, 2015; Published: August 13, 2025 Blockchain in Healthcare Today ISSN 2573-8240 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3985-3073 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7137-4881 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3408-0366 mailto:omer.aydin@cbu.edu.tr https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.4082 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Blockchain is driving a significant transformation in health sciences by enabling secure, transparent, and decentralized data management systems. As healthcare systems face persistent challenges such as data breaches, verification issues, and inefficiencies in supply chain management, blockchain emerges as a promising solution. By leveraging distributed ledger systems, it facil- itates more reliable, efficient, and accessible healthcare services. One of the core strengths of blockchain lies in its capacity to enhance the security and interoperability of personal health records. Roehrs et  al. highlighted its potential to overcome the limitations of fragmented data by offering a unified and decentralized view of patient information.1 Various approaches have since been devel- oped to integrate blockchain into healthcare data systems, such as decentralized storage solutions, secure data-shar- ing frameworks, and privacy-preserving algorithms.2,3 Smart contracts, self-executing protocols built on block- chain, offer additional benefits by automating compli- ance checks, ensuring the authenticity of pharmaceutical products, and streamlining healthcare billing processes.4 In patient data management, blockchain facilitates secure consent tracking, data verification, and protection of sen- sitive information through tamper-resistant ledgers.5,6,7 In the supply chain domain, blockchain provides real- time tracking of medical products and helps combat the proliferation of counterfeit drugs by ensuring product authenticity and traceability throughout the logistics net- work.8,9 In clinical research, it supports the integrity of trial data, protects intellectual property (IP) rights, and ensures the ethical and legal documentation of research processes.10–12 During the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of block- chain was further demonstrated in epidemiological mon- itoring, as it enabled more accurate and verifiable data collection. Fatoum et  al. also noted the potential of blockchain for storing living wills and power of attorney documents, which can be critical in end-of-life care sce- narios.13 Furthermore, blockchain-enabled informed con- sent mechanisms have been proposed as valuable tools for improving transparency and trust among trial sponsors, ethics boards, and patients. Blockchain is revolutionizing healthcare by enhanc- ing the security, traceability, and transparency of medi- cal data and processes. Its use in insurance verification, pharmaceutical logistics, and clinical trial management is accelerating the shift toward a more digitally resilient and accountable health ecosystem. As the sector continues to digitalize, the need for robust, privacy-preserving, and trustworthy data systems becomes increasingly critical. This paper aims to examine the core application areas of blockchain in healthcare focusing on patient consent, data security, pharmaceutical supply chains, clinical research, epidemiology, billing systems, and critical dis- ease management. By reviewing current literature and practical implementations, we explore how blockchain addresses longstanding issues in healthcare and assess its potential to shape a future-proof roadmap for the industry. Key contributions of blockchain in health sciences can be listed as follows: • Enhances data security and patient privacy through decentralized systems • Strengthens verification processes and prevents unau- thorized access • Improves supply chain transparency and reduces phar- maceutical counterfeiting • Ensures data integrity and IP protection in clinical research • Automates healthcare processes via smart contracts • Enables secure and transparent data sharing, especially for clinical trials • Supports outbreak management and reliable public health reporting Key Challenges and Healthcare Pain Points Despite advancements in medical technologies and digital health systems, the healthcare sector continues to face a range of persistent challenges that hinder efficiency, trust, and equitable service delivery. Identifying these pain points is essential for understanding the context in which blockchain is being applied: • Data Security and Privacy Risks: Healthcare data breaches remain alarmingly frequent, exposing sen- sitive patient information to misuse and fraud. Cen- tralized data systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks, unauthorized access, and data manipulation. • Fragmented Patient Records: Health information is often scattered across various institutions and plat- forms, leading to inconsistencies, incomplete histories, and difficulties in achieving interoperability among providers. • Inefficient Consent and Verification Mechanisms: Man- aging patient consent, especially across multiple ser- vices and stakeholders, is often manual, paper-based, and lacks transparency. This can delay treatments and introduce legal ambiguity. • Counterfeit Drugs and Supply Chain Inefficiencies: The pharmaceutical supply chain struggles with the pro- liferation of counterfeit medicines, lack of real-time tracking, and poor coordination across distribution networks. • Clinical Research Integrity and IP Protection: Main- taining the accuracy and authenticity of clinical trial data is a critical issue. Furthermore, IP generated from https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 3 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services medical research is frequently vulnerable to disputes and theft. • Lack of Transparency in Billing and Insurance: Health- care billing systems are susceptible to fraud and errors. Patients and providers often lack clear and verifiable documentation of insurance claims and transactions. • Data Reliability in Public Health Crises: During health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, timely and accurate epidemiological data are vital. Traditional systems often fail to provide verifiable, real-time data, leading to delays in response and planning. • Organ Transplant Logistics and Ethics: Organ trans- plantation involves sensitive logistical coordination and ethical considerations. Centralized tracking systems can be opaque and prone to manipulation or inefficiencies. These challenges form the foundation for evaluating blockchain’s potential role in modern healthcare sys- tems. The subsequent sections of this paper demonstrate how blockchain directly addresses each of these systemic issues through innovative, decentralized solutions. Methodology In our study, searches were conducted between January 10, 2025 and March 15, 2025 on research and review articles in the Web of Science database. In the data anal- ysis process, tools such as VOSviewer and R Bibliometrix Biblioshiny were used, especially for the analysis of Web of Science data. Thanks to the relevant tools, prominent research and topics in the field were more easily accessed, and blockchain and blockchain discussions in the health services field were systematically evaluated by researchers. By analyzing research and review articles in the health sciences field related to the subject of blockchain in the Web of Science database, the basic topics and applica- tion areas of blockchain in the field were revealed. After conducting preliminary research on the fields related to blockchain and health sciences in the Web of Science, the titles determined in Figure 1 emerged, and the articles were filtered using the search words shown in the figure in order to examine the relevant titles more deeply. Review and research articles were selected and analyzed for fil- tering, and a comprehensive evaluation was presented for field researchers. Overlay analysis and network analysis performed with the VOSviewer program were used during the evaluation. In this way, temporal analysis (co-occur- rence author keywords overlay analysis) and clustering and relational analysis (co-occurrence author keywords network analysis), showing which topics the subjects are related to, could be performed on the keywords used by the researchers in the articles. In addition, although the Web of Science Core Collec- tion was selected as the primary dataset for our compi- lation study, additional research was also conducted via Google Scholar. This enabled an in-depth examination of blockchain applications in the health field. In this way, a more comprehensive discussion could be provided for experts in the field. Our study is one of the most com- prehensive literature reviews conducted on the subject of blockchain applications, especially in health sciences and health services. This source has provided detailed and in-depth research for professionals in the field. Fig. 1. Search topics and search strings for blockchain application areas in health sciences. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.4084 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Findings and Discussion Our study is one of the most up-to-date and compre- hensive bibliometric analyses on the use of blockchain in healthcare. While previous studies in the literature14–22 have made significant contributions to this field, the difference in this study conducted in 2025 is that it has conducted its analysis directly on articles obtained from a data source such as Web of Science, which indexes the world’s most respected and influential academic journals in the field of healthcare sciences. In this respect, our study goes a significant step beyond the existing literature in terms of both content and scope. Current trends, research areas, and conceptual structures on how blockchain is used in healthcare have been exam- ined in detail within the scope of this analysis. As detailed in the Methodology section, as a result of the analysis, the ways blockchain is used in healthcare have been clustered under eight headings as given below. Thanks to this structure, the concrete contributions of blockchain to the healthcare system have been evalu- ated in a holistic manner, and a new perspective has been brought to the literature. These headings are as follows: • Patient consent, data security, and verification, • Supply chain management, • Clinical research and IP, • Epidemiology and disease management, • Health insurance and billing, • Organ transplantation, • Cancer and infectious disease monitoring, and • Pharmaceutical and pharmacy research. As can be seen in Table 1, a structured description of each application area and the specific contributions of block- chain are presented. In the healthcare sector, blockchain significantly enhances privacy and security by decentralizing patient data storage and reducing the risk of unauthorized access. This decentralized architecture ensures that sensitive patient information remains protected while maintaining data availability across healthcare providers. In supply chain management, blockchain plays a cru- cial role in preventing the counterfeiting of pharma- ceuticals and medical supplies. By enabling end-to-end traceability, it ensures the authenticity of products and improves transparency throughout procurement and dis- tribution processes. Clinical research benefits from blockchain through improved data integrity, traceability, and the protection of IP rights. Smart contracts and immutable ledgers support the secure documentation of research activities, which is essential for regulatory compliance and ethical oversight. During the COVID-19 pandemic, blockchain contrib- uted to public health responses by enhancing the reli- ability and accuracy of epidemiological data. It enabled real-time data validation and transparent reporting, which were critical for outbreak tracking and resource planning. Blockchain also strengthens healthcare billing and insurance processes by preventing fraud and improving the verifiability of claims and transactions. The immutable nature of blockchain records supports more efficient and trustworthy financial operations. In the fields of cancer and infectious disease monitor- ing, blockchain-based registration systems can improve transparency and facilitate secure data sharing among researchers and institutions. Similarly, in pharmaceutical and pharmacy research, blockchain enhances the ability to track drug development, validate research outputs, and maintain the integrity of data across institutions. Table 1. Blockchain application areas in health sciences. Application area Description Blockchain contribution/benefit Patient Consent, Security, Patient Data Verification and Management Verification of electronic health records, protection of security and privacy Decentralized data sharing, transparency of approval process, access control Supply Chain Management Processes Tracking of medicines, medical devices, and drugs supplies Anti-counterfeiting, traceability, transparent supply Clinical Research, Research Centers, Monitoring of Research Processes, Legal Aspects, Blockchain Applications for Intellectual Property Management Collection and sharing of research data Data integrity, intellectual property protec- tion, ease of auditing Disease Management, Epidemiology and COVID-19 Processes Epidemic monitoring, patient tracking Instant data sharing, reliable epidemiolog- ical data Insurance and Healthcare Billing in the Healthcare Sector Service verification and payment processes Fraud prevention, automated processes Organ Transplantation Processes Organ tracking, donor-recipient matching Transparent recording, secure data transfer, ethical auditing Cancer and Infectious Diseases Diagnostic and treatment data management Treatment traceability, early warning systems Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Drug production and distribution processes Transparent tracking, counterfeit drug prevention, quality control https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 5 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services Organ transplantation is another critical area where blockchain ensures the traceability of donor and recipient records, streamlines logistics, and supports ethical alloca- tion processes. Blockchain Applications for Patient Consent, Security, Patient Data Verification, and Management With the rapid digitalization of healthcare, blockchain has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing patient safety, data privacy, and transparency. Its decentralized and immutable structure strengthens patient consent pro- cesses and enables secure, verifiable management of elec- tronic health records (EHRs). For instance, Wang & Song proposed a blockchain-based health record system inte- grating attribute-based encryption to ensure confidential- ity and access control.23 Hylock & Zeng emphasized the importance of interoperable, patient-centered systems, highlighting how smart contracts can enable seamless, secure data sharing.24 Blockchain allows encrypted storage of medical data, making patient authorization more transparent and traceable.5 Combined with technologies like AI and data mining, it supports more efficient, evidence-based deci- sion-making.25 It also reduces medical errors by improving traceability of treatments and verifying provider histo- ries. Figure 2 shows the change in the number of articles obtained on the subjects of Blockchain Applications for Patient Consent, Security, Patient Data Verification, and Management over the years (Figure 2A), cluster analysis (Figure 2B) via authors’ keywords. Studies show high willingness among patients to share clinical data if privacy is ensured.26 Blockchain’s decen- tralized nature removes reliance on third parties, though technical limitations like scalability and resource use remain challenges.27 Still, its immutability and interoper- ability potential make it suitable for sharing data across hospitals, pharmacies, and labs.28–30 Researchers have also explored blockchain frameworks to improve digital consent processes, which are increas- ingly favored by patients for their transparency and trustworthiness.6,31,32 In summary, blockchain offers reliable solutions for patient consent, data security, and health information management, which are key pillars for advancing secure, patient-centric healthcare systems. However, although the advantages offered by blockchain in areas such as patient consent, data security, and health information management are promising, there are several challenges in the wide integration of this technology into healthcare systems. Although it provides transparency in data shar- ing by reducing dependency on third parties, thanks to its decentralized structure, blockchain’s technical limita- tions such as scalability, energy consumption, and trans- action delays pose significant obstacles, especially in large healthcare infrastructures. In addition, although it is the- oretically possible to provide interoperability in data shar- ing, standardization between different health information systems is a serious technical and administrative problem. The World Health Organization or health organizations of nations can take more responsibility to resolve such problems. In addition, in the future, the hybrid use of blockchain with approaches such as off-chain storage or federated learning emerges as an important research area in order to balance security and system performance. Blockchain Applications in Supply Chain Management Processes in the Healthcare Sector Supply chain management is one of the cornerstones of the global economic structure today. Globalizing mar- kets, increasing competition, and changing consumer demands have made it necessary to establish more effi- cient, transparent, and reliable systems in supply chains. In this context, blockchain has the potential to transform supply chain processes with its decentralized structure and unchangeable data storage features.33,34 This has also become true for the healthcare sector. While the health- care sector attracts attention with its complex supply chain processes and high level of regulatory requirements, it also has difficulties in meeting security, transparency, and efficiency requirements.35–37 Figure 3 shows the change in the number of articles on Blockchain Applications in Supply Chain Management Pro- cesses in the Healthcare Sector over the years (Figure 3A), cluster analysis (Figure 3B) via authors’ keywords. In the field of health sciences, blockchain applica- tion is used extensively in the supply chain management process. It can be used in drug tracking and prevention of counterfeiting, drug manufacturing processes, veri- fication of medical devices, distribution of vaccines or medical supplies during pandemic processes, and food supply processes. Another point that stands out in our research findings is that the topic of food safety in the field of health sciences is also intensively processed in the field: food safety, food distribution, supply chain, and food safety. According to the World Health Organiza- tion, 1 in 10 people gets sick from eating contaminated food. The complex food production process and global- ization make the food supply chain more sensitive. In recent years, many technologies have been researched to address food insecurity and achieve efficiency in dealing with food recalls.38 The food supply chain is a complex system that includes many stakeholders such as farmers, manufacturing plants, distributors, retailers, and con- sumers. Information asymmetry between stakeholders is one of the main factors leading to food fraud.39 Xu et al. stated that blockchain is a promising technology for food safety control with many ongoing initiatives in food products.40 https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.4086 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Fig. 2. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications for patient consent, security, patient data verifica- tion, and management. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 7 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services Fig. 3. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications in supply chain management processes in the healthcare sector. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.4088 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Accurate and timely information sharing among many stakeholders in the supply chain of medicines, medical devices, healthcare equipment, and other healthcare prod- ucts preventing operational disruptions and counterfeit- ing is of great importance.41–44 Blockchain has the power to revolutionize the healthcare sector with its potential to increase security, ensure data accuracy, and provide transparency in all processes from food to healthcare equipment supply or pharmaceutical supply processes. Its decentralized structure and unchangeable data recording features can help prevent errors and fraud by ensuring traceability of every step in the supply chain of healthcare products. The integration of blockchain into supply chain pro- cesses in the healthcare sector offers significant oppor- tunities, especially in critical areas such as security, transparency, and traceability. In application areas such as preventing drug counterfeiting, verifying medical devices, and monitoring the distribution of vaccines or medical supplies during pandemics, the unchangeable data records and decentralized structure offered by block- chain significantly increase process security. However, the integration of this technology with complex and highly regulated structures in the healthcare sector presents various technical problems. In particular, issues such as ensuring real-time information sharing between stake- holders, inter-system compatibility, and high transaction costs are still among the main obstacles awaiting solu- tions. However, for blockchain to be widely adopted in healthcare supply chains, comprehensive transformations are required not only in technology but also in legislation, education, and in-house processes. Clinical Research, Research Centers, Monitoring of Research Processes, Legal Aspects, and Blockchain Applications for Intellectual Property Management Clinical research plays a critical role in the development of innovative treatment methods in the field of health and in better understanding diseases. However, these processes bring with them a number of challenges, such as com- plex management requirements, data security concerns, IP rights, and legal regulations. Research centers must ensure transparency, accuracy, and security when manag- ing clinical research processes. Blockchain offers a poten- tial solution to overcome these challenges.45,46 Thanks to its decentralized structure and immutable record features, revolutionary applications can be developed in the areas of tracking research data, protecting IP rights, and managing the legal aspects of processes. For example, Li et al. stated that electronic data protection technology that notarizes data should be used to provide legal evidence for medical disputes and medical negligence.47 Albalwy et al. used a patient forum to determine patients’ security and consent concerns in their ConsentChain blockchain application.48 ConsentChain was developed on the Ethereum platform and used smart contracts to model the actions of patients who can consent or withdraw their data. The relevant system collects and stores patient data and allows for querying and accessing patient data. Sharing rare genetic disease information between genetic databases and labo- ratories is of critical value, and the developed application supports the sharing of clinical genomic data. Figure 4 shows the change in the articles obtained on the sub- jects of Clinical Research, Research Centers, Monitoring of Research Processes, Legal Aspects, and Blockchain Applications for Intellectual Property Management over the years (Figure 4A), cluster analysis (Figure 4B) via authors’ keywords. Data, including clinical, research, and publication data, are transmitted and stored in cloud-based networks. These cloud-based systems often lack comprehensiveness, accessibility, interoperability, privacy, accountability, and flexibility, which can lead to delays in medical treatments and slowdowns in research projects and overall inefficien- cies. The emergence of blockchain-based technologies offers a reliable solution to ensure that data storage and access are standardized and transparent, independent of a trusted third party. When applied in medical publishing, blockchain can serve to address data sharing and IP issues that medical authors often face.45 In clinical trials, data are stored securely and immuta- bly, processes are automated with smart contracts, and participant payments are made correctly. In addition, col- laborations based on secure data sharing are developed between researchers. For example, Liang et al. propose a blockchain-based framework to secure IP transactions in the healthcare sector and create social impact.46 Drosatos and Kaldoudi stated that blockchain needs to find suitable application paradigms, moving from approaches that discuss storing actual pieces of health data on the blockchain to solutions that use the block- chain primarily as a ledger that stores references to data or data hashes.49 Hasselgren et al. stated that tracing the origin of health data stored in distributed EHRs will sup- port such data-based medical decision-making and clini- cal research.50 Margheri et al. stated that tracing the origin for accessing health data allows patients to have full con- trol over the secondary use of their personal data, that is, creates awareness of where their data go.51 Hirano et al. built a system that ensures the security of medical data in a clinical trial using blockchain.52 They stated that their system can improve clinical trial data management, increase trust in the clinical trial process, and ease regulatory burden. Blockchain is an effective solution for clinical trials, research centers, and monitor- ing of research and clinical processes, various legal dis- cussions encountered in the health sector, and intellectual property management. Many researchers in the field of https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 9 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services Fig. 4. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about clinical research, research centers, monitoring of research processes, legal aspects, and blockchain applications for intellectual property management. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40810 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. health sciences are working to produce solutions under these topics. Blockchain Applications in Disease Management, Epidemiology, and COVID-19 Processes Disease management and epidemiology are key com- ponents of efforts to protect and improve public health. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has tested global health systems, while once again revealing the importance of efficient, rapid, and secure delivery of health services and disease management. In this context, this technology can transform health data management with its decen- tralized structure and secure data storage features. For example, in their study, Jabarulla & Lee stated that pub- lic health monitoring enables the analysis of anonymized data to track outbreaks, and they stated that effective interventions can be made by accelerating real-time data sharing in crisis situations, especially pandemics.53 They stated that thanks to blockchain, users’ privacy can be protected in decentralized data sharing, data can be strengthened, reliable data management can be provided during outbreak monitoring, and outbreaks can be com- bated. Figure 5 shows the change in the number of arti- cles obtained on the subjects of Blockchain Applications in Disease Management, Epidemiology, and COVID-19 Processes over the years (Figure 5A), cluster analysis (Figure 5B) via authors’ keywords. Khurshid presented blockchain as a solution for tracking medical supplies and infected patients.54 Liu & Liu stated that the construction of a medical resource sharing mechanism under the condition of blockchain in pandemic processes such as COVID-19 can greatly improve the degree of medical resource sharing.55 In addition, blockchain can be used to increase security and transparency in tracking vaccine vials in pandemic pro- cesses such as COVID-19.56 Smart contracts created and tested with Ethereum can be used to use and protect a digital health passport for test and vaccine participants.57 Sahal et  al. stated that secure real-time data exchange and analysis between multiple participants is important to support efforts against COVID-19, and therefore, a blockchain-based collaborative digital twin framework for decentralized outbreak warnings is important to com- bat COVID-19 and any future pandemics.58 Fusco et al. stated that Blockchain is increasingly being applied to healthcare management as a strategic tool to strengthen operational protocols and create a suitable basis for an effective and efficient evidence-based deci- sion-making process and suggested blockchain applica- tion for a safe clinical application against COVID-19.25 As can be seen, blockchain emerges as a solution especially in times of epidemics when more effective management of diseases is needed, for example, during the COVID-19 process. Clinical research plays a critical role in developing innovative treatment methods in the healthcare field and in better understanding diseases. However, these processes bring with them a number of challenges such as complex management requirements, data security concerns, IP rights, and legal regulations. Although blockchain pres- ents many challenges in the implementation process, it is a critical and prominent technology that has the potential to overcome these challenges. In particular, blockchain offers significant advantages by providing secure and unchangeable data records in the monitoring of clinical trial data, protection of IP rights, and the management of legal processes. However, in order for this technology to become widespread in the healthcare field, regulatory frameworks must also be harmonized rather than relying solely on technological innovations. Blockchain Applications for Insurance and Healthcare Billing in the Healthcare Sector The healthcare sector is a rapidly digitalizing field, and this transformation is leading to significant changes in critical processes such as insurance and healthcare billing. Accuracy, transparency, and security in these processes are of great importance to both patients and healthcare providers. However, problems such as complex billing systems, delays in payment processes, error risks, and fraud are among the main challenges faced by the sector. At this point, Blockchain has the potential to solve these problems with its decentralized structure and secure data recording features. With the verification and reimburse- ment of traditional healthcare claims, a healthcare pro- vider submits a claim after providing service to a patient, and this claim is later verified and reimbursed by the payer. However, this process leaves out a critical stakeholder, the “patient to whom the services are actually provided.” This lack of patient participation poses the risk of fraud and abuse. Blockchain enables secure data management with transparency, which can reduce the risk of healthcare fraud and abuse.59 Figure 6 shows the change in the number of articles obtained on the topics of Blockchain Applications for Insurance and Healthcare Billing in the Healthcare Sector over the years (Figure 6A), cluster analysis (Figure 6B) via authors’ keywords. Al-Quayed et al. stated that a large amount of highly sensitive electronic health insurance data are generated every day, which attract fraudulent users.60 Based on these facts, they proposed an intelligent health insurance fraud detection and prevention framework that leverages cut- ting-edge capabilities such as blockchain, 5G, cloud, and machine learning to improve the health insurance pro- cess. Zhou et al. proposed a blockchain-based threshold medical insurance storage system called MIStore, which is a blockchain-based medical insurance storage system.61 https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 11 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services Fig. 5. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications in disease management, epidemiology, and COVID-19 processes. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40812 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Fig. 6. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications for insurance and healthcare billing in the health- care sector. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 13 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services They stated that since it is combined with the blockchain, the system gains some special advantages, for example, decentralization, tamper-proof, and registration nodes help users verify publicly verifiable data. Blockchain enhances transparency and reliability in healthcare insurance systems by offering tamper-proof, decentralized data management. Pandey & Litoriya noted that in India, blockchain enables secure, patient-cen- tered insurance services resistant to fraud and corrup- tion.62 Xiao et al. introduced HealthChain, a consortium involving hospitals, insurers, and government agencies to manage healthcare billing and claims through a shared blockchain platform.63 The key benefits include: • Tamper-resistance: Ensures data cannot be altered, increasing trust. • Decentralization: Eliminates third-party intermediar- ies, allowing direct interactions. • Confidentiality & Access Control: Patient data are pro- tected using threshold cryptography, enabling secure computations (e.g., spending verification) without exposing raw data. • Verification: Important data can be publicly veri- fied, improving auditability and reducing processing overhead.61 Smart contracts automate claim approvals and payments, significantly reducing fraud, errors, and transaction times in billing processes. While smart contracts’ automatic request approvals and payments help reduce errors and fraud in bill- ing processes, questions arise about the exact legal frame- works this technology fits into and the security of patients’ data. While the transparency and accessibility provided by blockchain allow patients to maintain con trol of their data, how these processes will be integrated with international harmonization and standards is also an important area of research.64 As a result, in order for blockchain-based sys- tems to be used effectively in health insurance and billing processes, not only technological but also legal, ethical, and cultural barriers will need to be overcome. Blockchain Applications for Organ Transplantation Processes Organ transplants are hard to manage. They need both medical care and legal steps. Getting organs on time, matching them right, and keeping records clear are all key parts. Technology is helping with this. One useful tool is blockchain. It can track data safely and help avoid errors.65,66,67,68 In 2019, Alandjani looked into this. He showed how blockchain can keep transplant data clear and legal. His system used hashed data to match donors and recipients. It also helped with safe data sharing. He said that not all data should go on the blockchain. Instead, only key details should. He also called for more work to improve these systems.69 Later, in 2022, Hawashin and others designed a better system. They used Ethereum, a type of blockchain, to handle all parts of organ donation. They made six smart contracts to run steps like registering donors and matching them with patients. Their model kept the pro- cess open, fair, and private.70 In 2023, Varshney and his team focused on India. There, organ donation faces many issues such as laws, tech, and ethics. They built a block- chain model with AI help. It automated matches, checked documents, and allowed organ swapping between fami- lies. They said strong laws and privacy rules are needed to make it work in India.71 Another team, Anselmo et al., also in 2023, studied how blockchain helps worldwide. They said it makes waiting lists better and stops illegal trades. Their review said governments and health experts must work together for blockchain to help on a large scale.72 In 2024, Sitharamulu and others made a new system using private Ethereum. It included six smart contracts. They checked identities and gave access only to trusted people. Their tests showed it made the process safer and more honest. They plan to add more privacy tools later, like Quorum and DApps.73 Also in 2024, Bawa and his team reviewed many studies. They looked at 85 papers from around the world. They found problems in current systems like trust issues and illegal trading. Blockchain, they said, fixed many of these by making data open and secure. They also talked about using IoT and AI to make the process even better.74 The most recent work came in 2025 from Haq et al. They built a full blockchain system for transplant tracking. It had six smart contracts and let doctors and drivers record every step. Tests showed it was fast, low-cost, and secure. They plan to add stronger encryption soon.75 These studies collectively demonstrate blockchain tech- nology’s potential to revolutionize organ transplantation management by enhancing data security, transparency, and operational efficiency. Figure 7 illustrates the grow- ing scholarly interest in blockchain applications for organ transplantation, including publication trends, thematic clusters, and keyword frequencies, highlighting the accel- erating momentum of this research area. Blockchain Applications for Cancer and Infectious Diseases Cancer and infectious diseases continue to be one of the biggest threats to global health systems. The management of these diseases requires a large data flow and coordina- tion in the early diagnosis, treatment, and disease moni- toring processes. However, managing this data accurately, securely, and transparently is critical for the prevention of medical errors and the effectiveness of healthcare services. Blockchain, with its decentralized structure and unchangeable data recording features, emerges as a solu- tion to these problems in the management of cancer and https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40814 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Fig. 7. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications for organ transplantation processes. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 15 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services infectious diseases. For example, effectively sharing health data generated during standard care can significantly accelerate progress in cancer treatments. At this point, Glicksberg et  al. designed and piloted a decentralized, scalable, efficient, economical, and secure strategy for the dissemination of de-identified clinical and genomic data focusing on late-stage cancer.76 In terms of the overall pilot study, they stated that the Cancer Gene Trust can integrate real-world data of cancer patients more clinically useful and quickly. Figure 8 shows the change in the arti- cles obtained on the topics of Blockchain Applications for Cancer and Infectious Diseases over the years (Figure 8A), cluster analysis (Figure 8B) via authors’ keywords. Dubovitskaya et al. in collaboration with Stony Brook University Hospital developed ACTION-EHR, a system for patient-centric, blockchain-based EHRs data sharing and the management for patient care, particularly radi- ation therapy for cancer.77 Their prototype is built on Hyperledger Fabric, an open-source, permissioned block- chain framework. Tian et al. emphasized the need for more intelligent and efficient infectious disease warning systems, noting that current models face challenges like poor data flow and limited collaboration.78 To address this, they proposed a blockchain-based early warning framework integrated with AI, big data, and smart contracts. For tuberculosis, one of the fastest-growing infec- tious diseases, Srivastava & Srivastava demonstrated how blockchain and machine learning can support early diag- nosis and track patient treatment data.79 Lima et al. sug- gested using permissioned blockchain networks to store de-identified, semantically annotated data in real-time, enhancing data transparency and reliability.80 Zhu et  al. proposed a blockchain-based method for tracking infectious diseases by generating a real-time, transparent, and quarriable disease information chain, enabling more effective outbreak monitoring.81 In cancer research, combining blockchain with AI and nanotechnology enhances diagnostics, prognosis, and treatment. AI-driven analysis of historical data can improve personalized care, while blockchain ensures secure consent management, data sharing, and timely access to health records critical for both treatment and research.82 Blockchain is an effective solution as explained in the previous sections.83 As can be seen, blockchain offers important solutions, especially for cancer patients and infectious diseases, in terms of monitoring diseases, verifying treatment processes, securely sharing patient data, and transparently monitoring treatment results. As partially explained here, it has many benefits, applications, and areas of impact for cancer and infectious diseases. Blockchain-based systems provide significant benefits, especially in long-term treatment processes such as can- cer, in that they can securely manage patients’ personal health data and transparently monitor treatment results. Similarly, in infectious diseases, blockchain enables the establishment of early warning systems through faster data flows and more effective collaboration. In addition, when blockchain is integrated with artificial intelligence and nanotechnology in areas such as cancer and infec- tious diseases, it may be possible to implement more cus- tomized and personalized treatment approaches. Blockchain Applications for Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences have an important place in the field of health and have a complex structure that includes drug development, production, distribution, and patient interaction processes. Data security, transpar- ency, and accuracy play a critical role in patient safety at every stage of these processes. Uddin et  al. highlighted that blockchain-based drug traceability can serve as an effective solution for establishing a decentralized and transparent data-sharing platform within the pharma- ceutical supply chain. They proposed two blockchain architecture models designed to ensure data immutability, reliability, and accountability. According to their findings, these frameworks offer a strong foundation for health informatics researchers aiming to develop comprehensive, end-to-end traceability systems for the pharmaceutical industry.84 In another example, Omidian et al. have out- lined how blockchain can track, accelerate, and increase the efficiency of incredibly complex operations such as drug development.85 Using blockchain to securely share health data with community pharmacies has the potential to improve patient outcomes, optimize medication safety, and strengthen the role of pharmacists in patient care.86 However, Uddin stated that the increase in online and internet-based pharmacies has made the safety and security of the drug supply chain process more complex and complicated.87 At this point, Uddin proposed the Medledger system, an innovative tracking and tracing system that utilizes the blockchain-enabled Hyperledger Fabric blockchain platform using smart contracts to pre- vent drug fraud. In another study, Bali et al. presented a blockchain-based solution for traceability known as PharmaChain in order to make transparent but secure traceability of pharmaceutical drugs faster and more efficient with blockchain in the context of healthcare.88 In addition, Yu89 proposed a solution with a blockchain system for innovative IP approach in the drug discovery and development process. Figure 9 shows the change in the articles obtained on the subjects of Blockchain Applications for Phar macy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research over the years (Figure 9A), cluster analysis (Figure 9B) via authors’ keywords. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40816 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Fig. 8. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications for cancer and infectious diseases. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 17 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services In the study by Agrawal et al., drug recall is identified as a critical issue for manufacturing companies, as man- ufacturers may face criticism and significant business decline due to a faulty drug.90 They stated that a faulty drug is a very damaging issue as it can cost several lives, and at this point, they presented the proposed block- chain-supported supply chain management system using Hyperledger Composer, which allows manufacturers to effectively track the drug in the supply chain, providing enhanced security and transparency throughout the pro- cess. In their study, Sylim et  al. supported information sharing throughout the official drug distribution network in the Philippines with blockchain.91 They developed and tested a pharmacological surveillance blockchain system. They also stated that the implementation can be more successful with the adoption and sustainability of the technology used and with the strengthening of consumer awareness, strong policy support, and good governance. Alnafrani & Acharya emphasized the need for healthcare providers to access comprehensive, borderless datasets, and improve drug tracking to enhance trust and account- ability in the pharmaceutical sector.92 They proposed a blockchain-based framework for secure and interopera- ble access to prescription records. Similarly, Tseng et al. introduced the Gcoin blockchain to create transparent drug transaction data, suggesting a shift from traditional inspections to a real-time surveillance model involving all supply chain participants to combat counterfeit drugs and protect public health.93 Gaynor et al. evaluated that medicines are not the only thing procured in the health system. A procurement pro- cess is required to track the transportation of organs for organ transplantation, and they stated that blockchain can be used at this point.94 For example, blockchain is seen as a solution for preoperative evaluation of deceased donors, transnational cross-programs with international waiting list databases, and reducing black market dona- tions.72 As can be seen, blockchain, thanks to its decen- tralized structure, transparency, and unchangeable record features, can increase the traceability of drugs, prevent counterfeiting, and contribute to the provision of more effective and secure health care by providing secure data sharing in organ transplantation processes. Blockchain offers significant opportunities in terms of data security, transparency, and traceability in the phar- maceutical supply chain and organ transplantation pro- cesses. Accurate and reliable data management is of critical importance, especially in drug development, production, distribution, and patient interaction processes. Blockchain can be an effective tool to prevent fraud and reduce errors in processes by making each stage traceable and unchange- able. However, as mentioned before, in order for block- chain to be fully implemented in supply chain processes, data standardization and compatibility must be ensured among large-scale healthcare systems. As a result, it has been seen that more research is required for blockchain to create a significant transformation in the healthcare sector, and more application projects and field experience must be transferred. In addition, acting in harmony with health authorities is also of critical importance. Conclusion and Recommendation Blockchain has the potential for a multidimensional and comprehensive transformation in health sciences, both technically and in terms of governance. The eval- uations in the eight application areas of blockchain dis- cussed in this article reveal the significant contributions of blockchain in improving data security, transparency, traceability, and patient-centered service delivery. It has been emphasized that blockchain solutions are becoming increasingly prominent, from patient approval processes to supply chain management, clinical research, and digital health applications. If we recall the main findings of the article, we can list them as follows: • Data Security and Privacy: Blockchain technical fea- tures allow for data security and privacy. It also elimi- nates the need to trust a center since it does not need to be controlled by a center. In other words, decentralized data storage through Blockchain strengthens patient privacy by protecting against data breaches. • Transparency and Traceability: Transparency of pro- cesses and technical infrastructure is an important issue. Blockchain provides this infrastructure. All pro- cesses and transactions are recorded, and immutability is guaranteed. For example, verifiable processes in sup- ply chains and billing systems help prevent fraud and increase stakeholder trust. • Collaboration and Integration: Blockchain has the potential to integrate with many emerging technologies. For example, it facilitates secure data sharing and inte- gration with AI, IoT, and genomics, paving the way for personalized healthcare. • Global and Crisis-Focused Applications: Block- chain-based applications have the potential to contrib- ute to better and faster execution of processes in global health crises such as the COVID-19 process. Real-time data exchange and reliable outbreak management are the features that reveal the role of blockchain in resil- ient health systems. • Compatibility with Emerging Technologies: Being able to easily and fully integrate with new technologies is critical to the sustainability of the health informa- tion systems and infrastructures. The integration of Blockchain with AR, IoT, VR, Metaverse, and Health 5.0 is important for the digital transformation of health services and a sustainable and up-to-date health infor- mation system infrastructure. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40818 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. Fig. 9. Articles’ network and overlay analyses about blockchain applications for pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences research. https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 19 (page number not for citation purpose) Blockchain applications in core healthcare services In the light of these findings, we can make the following suggestions based on the results and evaluations obtained from the study: • Technical Infrastructure Development: Healthcare providers should implement blockchain-based sys- tems and integrate them with the existing Information Technology infrastructure. The infrastructure integra- tion process should be carried out meticulously and in accordance with international standards. Integration processes should be considered in a multifaceted man- ner, basic needs specific to the healthcare field should be considered, and a sustainable investment plan should be made for the system infrastructure for today and the future. Both technical and financial planning should be made in detail in terms of system sustainability. Con- tinuous revision or re-establishment of infrastructures to be established in healthcare systems is a process that is both risky and has financial and human costs. Therefore, it is essential that the infrastructure to be established is created by taking these situations into consideration. • Education and Awareness: Training programs should be developed for professionals, and blockchain-related courses should be included in the health sciences cur- riculum. The content detailed in this article and more can be added to secondary and higher education cur- ricula that provide health education. In order to use and disseminate the established system, cooperation can be established with educational institutions, and demo application environments can be established and used while students are still students. Similarly, in-house training processes can be used to learn these systems, increase their usage rate, and ensure that current users are more professional and can use all functions correctly. • Regulatory and Policy Frameworks: Clear and adapt- able legal frameworks should be created to support the adoption of blockchain in healthcare services, including privacy and IP laws. Legal regulations have been made and continue to be made in the world, Europe and Tur- key on data protection, data security, and privacy. In the healthcare field, studies should be carried out with the comprehensive participation of relevant parties to create laws, regulations, and related legislation and to revise them according to current needs. • Research and Innovation Support: Interdisciplin- ary research and public-private sector and university partnerships should be encouraged to pilot innovative blockchain applications. Research potential should be increased with various project calls, postdoctoral research opportunities to be opened in universities, and doctoral and graduate programs. It would be appropri- ate to carry out these projects and studies together with the private sector, to minimize integration problems between the private sector and the public, and to con- tinue the process with mutual interaction. Various public and private incentives should be planned to encourage companies or individuals who can conduct research and development on this subject. • Ethical and Social Issues: Awareness should be increased about ethical blockchain use, and inclusive systems should be designed for vulnerable and digitally underserved communities and groups. In this regard, first of all, efforts should be made to inform people, explain the technical details of blockchain security and privacy, and to accept how its use is carried out ethically and socially. This can only be achieved by educating people and introducing these technologies at all levels and environments. In conclusion, blockchain offers groundbreaking oppor- tunities in various areas of health sciences. However, realizing this potential requires a holistic approach that includes technological advances, policy reform, and ethi- cal safeguards. In the future of health systems, blockchain should not be seen as a mere tool but as the cornerstone of trust, collaboration, transparency, and privacy. Limitations While this study provides a comprehensive evaluation of blockchain applications in healthcare, several limitations should be acknowledged. First, the research primarily relied on data from the Web of Science Core Collection, which may have excluded relevant studies indexed in other databases or published in non-English languages. Although supplementary searches were conducted via Google Scholar, the inclusion of grey literature was lim- ited. Second, the bibliometric analysis focused on pub- lished academic research and may not fully capture recent industry innovations or pilot programs that still in devel- opment. Finally, the scope of the review was confined to eight major thematic areas identified during the analysis, which, while significant, may not represent all emerging applications or regional implementations of blockchain in health systems. Future Work Given the limitations identified in this study, future research should address several critical gaps to provide a more complete understanding of blockchain’s role in healthcare. First, future reviews should expand the scope of data sources beyond the Web of Science Core Collec- tion to include additional academic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and IEEE Xplore, as well as regional repositories and non-English language publications. This would help capture a more diverse and globally represen- tative body of literature. Additionally, increased inclusion of grey literature, policy papers, and technical reports https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.408 Citation: Blockchain in Healthcare Today 2025, 8: 408 - https://doi.org/10.30953/bhty.v8.40820 (page number not for citation purpose) Muhammet Damar et al. would offer valuable insights into industry-driven innova- tions and real-world pilot implementations that are often absent from academic discourse. Future research should focus on enhancing the scal- ability, interoperability, and regulatory alignment of blockchain solutions in healthcare. Key areas include developing integration frameworks with existing health IT systems, creating lightweight and energy-efficient consen- sus mechanisms, and addressing legal and ethical consid- erations around data ownership and cross- border sharing. Usability studies and real-world pilot programs are also needed to assess long-term effectiveness and adoption. Additionally, exploring synergies between blockchain and emerging technologies, such as AI, could unlock new capabilities in secure, data-driven healthcare delivery. For blockchain to be utilized sustainably in clinical research and the healthcare sector in the future, interdisci- plinary studies, pilot projects, and large-scale field tests are of great importance. In summary, future interdisciplinary research and industry-based pilot projects will play a key role in determining concrete steps that will support the sustainable and effective integration of this technology. Funding Associate Professor Muhammet Damar, PhD, and Asso- ciate Professor Omer Aydin, PhD, were supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TUBITAK) under the TUBITAK 2219 Inter- national Postdoctoral Research Fellowship program. Associate Professor Muhammet Damar, PhD, would like to thank the Upstream Lab, MAP, Li Ka Shing Knowl- edge Institute at the University of Toronto for its excellent hospitality. Conflicts of Interest None Contributors Associate Professor Muhammet Damar, PhD: Concep- tualization, methodology, validation, formal analysis, data curation, writing—original draft, writing—review & editing. Associate Professor Ömer Aydın, PhD: Conceptualiza- tion, validation, investigation, writing—review & editing, supervision. Associate Professor Fatih Safa Erenay, PhD: Con- ceptualization, investigation, writing—review & editing, supervision. Data Availability Statement (DAS), Data Sharing, Reproducibility, and Data Repositories The data that support the findings of this study are avail- able from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. Also, we retrieve our bibliometric data from WoS Core Collection Database, and this database is open for everyone. 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