Cigna, Sentara Healthcare join IBM blockchain initiative

Not-for-profit system Sentara Healthcare and Cigna have joined a healthcare utility network built using IBM-backed blockchain technology. Blockchain has the potential to improve data security and interoperability in healthcare, as well as facilitate faster connections and updates to patient information. The network aims to leverage blockchain to transition to value-based care and address issues such as data transparency and accuracy. Other health organizations, providers, startups, and ISVs are expected to join the network. A survey found that 70% of payers planned to integrate blockchain into their systems by the start of 2019.