Emerging trends and bibliometric analysis of internet of medical things for innovative healthcare (2016–2023)

Abstract

Background: The internet of medical things (IoMT) is revolutionizing digital health through continuous monitoring, realtime diagnostics, and remote care capabilities. Nonetheless, research in this domain remains disjointed, with a restricted comprehension of its growth trajectories, principal contributors, and thematic emphasis. A comprehensive evaluation is thus required to inform forthcoming research, policy, and advancements in resilient healthcare technologies. Methods: This study performed a bibliometric and literature-based analysis of IoMT research indexed in the Scopus database from 2016 to 2023. The dataset was optimized by keyword screening, resulting in 762 pertinent papers. Bibliometric indices, including as publication and citation trends, authorship and institutional output, and funding patterns, were analyzed. Thematic evolution was examined by keyword co-occurrence and cluster mapping utilizing VOSviewer, complemented by a synthesis of literature. Results: A total of 762 publications on IOMT were identified, comprising 63.12% journal articles, 30.97% conference papers, and 5.91% review papers. The total publications rose from 1 in 2016 to 301 in 2023, indicating a 30,000% increase. Total citations reached 19,014, with an h-index of 171. The most prolific contributors were Mohsen M. Guizani, King Saud University, and India. Collaborations and funding, particularly from international agencies, were found to significantly drive research productivity. Keyword and cluster analyses revealed two dominant thematic areas: Smart Medical Diagnostics and Privacy-Driven Health Technologies. The literature further confirmed strong integration of machine learning, blockchain, sensor technologies, and cloud computing in IOMT applications. Conclusion: This analysis consolidates fragmented IoMT research, providing a structured overview of its development, contributors, and thematic trajectories. The findings highlight the rapid growth, global collaborations, and integration of advanced technologies driving the field. By mapping benchmarks and research hotspots, the study offers valuable evidence to guide future investigations, interdisciplinary collaborations, and policy efforts aimed at strengthening secure and patient-centered digital health systems.