In this episode of The Blockchain Startup Show, I spoke with Ray Dogum, Founder and Host of Health Unchained, a healthcare meets blockchain podcast which has featured over 120 guests. Ray discusses how blockchain technology could revolutionize healthcare data sharing, scientific research, and patient care while exploring the challenges and opportunities in decentralized science.

From open-access research funding to AI-powered diagnostics, Ray discusses the possibilities for rebuilding healthcare and scientific research on Web3 infrastructure.

Episode Outline and Highlights:

[00:00:33] Introduction

• Harrison introduces Ray Dogum and Health Unchained
• Overview of DeSci and its scope beyond healthcare

[02:32] Early Distributed Computing in Science

• Discussion of SETI and CureCoin
• Historical context of decentralized science initiatives

[04:40] Evolution of DeSci

• From early concepts to current implementations
• Role of projects like Vita DAO and Molecules

[28:00] Data Collection and AI in Healthcare

• Real-world evidence gathering
• Integration of AI in medical diagnostics
• Privacy and security considerations

[33:37] The Future of Healthcare Data

• Vision for individualized care through data sharing
• Potential for data-driven health insurance models
• Balancing privacy with research needs

[45:00] Building in DeSci

• Opportunities for founders and businesses
• Importance of community building
• Integration of AI in DeSci projects

[52:16] Current Challenges in DeSci

• Data sharing and user engagement
• Peer-to-peer science collaboration
• Open access publishing

Transforming Scientific Research Through Blockchain

Ray emphasizes how DeSci could revolutionize research funding, data sharing, and scientific collaboration. By leveraging blockchain technology, researchers can create more transparent, efficient systems for conducting and sharing their work, while maintaining privacy and security.

The Future of Healthcare Data Management

The conversation highlights the potential for blockchain to transform healthcare data management, enabling individuals to control their medical information while contributing to research. This shift could lead to more personalized care and innovative funding models for scientific research.