Towards Health 4.0: Blockchain-Based Electronic Health Record for Care Coordination

Authors

  • Robert Sibanda National University of Science and Technology
  • Belinda Ndlovu University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6046-3240
  • Sibusisiwe Dube National University of Science and Technology
  • Kudakwashe Maguraushe Mangosuthu University of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/ecie.19.1.2606

Keywords:

blockchain, distributed ledger, permissioned, electronic health record, health 4.0, care coordination, healthcare

Abstract

Inter-organizational data sharing in healthcare is fraught with challenges, including diverse healthcare terminologies, incompatible data structures, and issues with data consistency and security. Establishing a unified patient record across a data-sharing network is problematic, and centralized data stores and authority providers are prime targets for cyberattacks. This study proposes a blockchain-based patient data-sharing strategy that relies on network consensus rather than a single, centralized source of trust. The consensus is based on evidence of both structural and semantic interoperability. The primary objective is to develop secure and controlled data-sharing mechanisms that enhance care coordination. The research utilized Kanban as the software development methodology to manage the project effectively. The study found that blockchain-based electronic health record (EHR) systems significantly enhance care coordination by enabling seamless data transfer and fostering trust and collaboration among healthcare providers. Key findings include improved data consistency, enhanced security, and increased interoperability across diverse healthcare systems. These results suggest that blockchain technology can play a crucial role in transforming healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes in the context of Health 4.0. This work contributes to the ongoing discussion on leveraging blockchain technology to revolutionize healthcare systems, offering a robust framework for secure and efficient data sharing that can lead to better healthcare delivery and patient care outcomes.

Author Biographies

Robert Sibanda, National University of Science and Technology

Robert is a student currently studying Informatics at the National University of Science and Technology. He has gained valuable practical experience through internships and part-time roles in the technology industry. 

Sibusisiwe Dube, National University of Science and Technology

Sibusisiwe Dube is an experienced lecturer of Information Systems and Computer Science courses. She holds a PhD in Information Systems, an MSc in Computer Science, and a BSc in Information Systems. She has been lecturing since 2004. She is also an active researcher and supervisor of Postgraduate dissertations and undergraduate student projects.

Kudakwashe Maguraushe, Mangosuthu University of Technology

Kudakwashe Maguraushe is an experienced lecturer in multiple computing-related modules. He holds a PhD in Information Systems, an MSc in Information Systems and a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science. He has supervised many students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He has research interests in information privacy and security, healthcare systems, emerging technologies (artificial intelligence, machine learning and social media) and digital transformation.

 

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Published

2024-09-20