Blockchain based secure architecture for electronic healthcare record management

Abstract

Blockchain technology is a fast-growing field of interest to provide a secure framework for storing encrypted data in several sectors. It is a quite popular technology to enter a new realm, largely due to the emergence of cryptocurrencies. Blockchain technology has a great potential in the healthcare domain, emerging from a patient-centered approach to the integration of decentralized networks, which includes the precision of Electronic Healthcare Records (EHRs). It allows both transparent and an open system for health record management. For accessing EHRs, Blockchain technology does not require any centralized control. The security is based on individual blocks; it is safe and reliable with the cryptographical hash links. Only the verified EHRs are added to the Blockchain after being approved by miners through a consensus mechanism and then it is distributed (or replicated) among the networks. But certainly, there is a need for efficiently managing the numerous amounts of electronically generated data. This paper proposes an EHR management system by integrating a Blockchain multi-signature stamp with a private channel framework. Multi-signature stamps tackle the question of data ownership and authority. This approach assists the construction of a correct protocol for retracing a user's database. A channel guarantees that all parties obey a common rule to preserve the Blockchain ledger. This paper also summarizes several related works and discusses the technical background of the technology. Data decentralization through Blockchain will improve accessibility and protection of data while overturning the healthcare bureaucracy and building a new framework for patients to administer their own health.