Implementation of a Blockchain-Based Framework for Enhancing Transparency and Security in Pharmaceutical Supply Chains

Abstract

Counterfeit drugs are a major problem in the pharmaceutical industry, posing risks to patient safety, the quality of healthcare, and the trust in the industry. The traditional pharmaceutical supply chain system is based on a centralized database, which is susceptible to cyber threats, data tampering, transparency issues, and inefficient tracking. In this study, a blockchain based solution is proposed to provide better transparency, security, traceability and authenticity in the pharmaceutical supply chain. The suggested framework combines the decentralized ledger technology, the smart contract, the cryptographic hashing, and real-time traceability mechanisms, to assure secure monitoring of medicines from manufacturing to end consumers. This paper used descriptive and analytical research, and qualitative interview and blockchain simulation methods to assess the effectiveness of the proposed system. The results show that blockchain technology can greatly enhance the verification of medicines, ensure that they are not tampered with, curb the proliferation of counterfeit drugs and build trust among stakeholders thanks to an indelible transaction record. Overall, the study demonstrates that blockchain-powered pharmaceutical systems can offer a secure and transparent solution to enhance healthcare logistics and the authentication of medicines, especially in developing nations like Pakistan.