Leveraging Blockchain Technology for Enhancing Genomic Data Management: A Multidisciplinary Framework for Privacy, Trust, Identity Protection, and Equity

Abstract

The effective adoption of blockchain technology in genomic data management is influenced not only by its technical advantages but also by external factors such as regulatory conditions, and the demands of consumers and patients. This thesis explores the critical factors required for blockchain platforms to thrive in managing genomic data, focusing on how these systems can be structured to address the high-priority needs of various stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, regulators, and researchers. Through a comprehensive examination of privacy, security, regulatory compliance, and equity concerns, the research develops a multidisciplinary framework that balances technological innovation with real-world stakeholder expectations. By conducting an in-depth stakeholder analysis and analyzing existing blockchain platforms used for genomics, the thesis presents a roadmap for creating blockchain solutions that are both technologically viable and aligned with the complex social, legal, and ethical landscape of genomic data management. This framework aims to maximize value for all stakeholders while mitigating associated risks, positioning blockchain as a viable tool in the future of personalized medicine.