Blockchain: A novel paradigm for secured data transmission in telemedicine

ABSTRACT

Blockchain has three main features-decentralization, immutability, and encryption-that can cover multiple fields of use in the healthcare industry. Telemedicine, a relatively new field, stems from telecommunications' contribution to healthcare services' remote delivery. This area has observed many benefits of Blockchain technology. However, innovative techniques for secured and authenticated data transfers still need to be put forward in this new digitization era. Healthcare professions use the opportunities provided by the Blockchain technology (BCT) in accessing the patient's information in a decentralized format. Though the decentralization aspect improves the overall robustness of current healthcare systems, trust and traceability are the key action points that need to be focused on. BCT paired with smart contracts automates operations and services of telehealth and telemedicine in an efficient and trustful way. Several case studies and models have been discussed and proposed, demonstrating the practicality of secured data transfers using BCT in the telehealth and telemedicine domain. BCT has hopefully assisted in the safe sharing of data information, from cryptographic record keeping of a person's information to easy access and access everywhere. Telemedicine has had significant security issues, but Blockchain's ability to develop and maintain a secure network when exchanging data has allowed easy information flow. This chapter presents various models and frameworks proposed in the state-of-the-art and discusses their implications for patient engagement and empowerment. These models are discussed in terms of their performance and cost in providing secured and private data sharing. Cost, lack of awareness on how to implement it, and lack of standardization are obstacles preventing Blockchain's adoption in telemedicine. The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted telehealth and telemedicine technology uptake, where BCT could be a prevailing solution. The interest in providing hospital care in the patient's home is also growing, an approach where multiple investors are pouring money into companies working on remote monitoring of different health and telemedicine parameters. There is currently limited research on Blockchain applications for telemedicine, but more research is available every day. Blockchain is now one of the most active fields of software science, and by restoring authority over medical records and health data to the patient, it will shift the hierarchy of healthcare. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.