Advancing Medical Device Management Systems through Ethereum Blockchain

The management of medical devices throughout their lifecycle is a complex and critical process in healthcare, traditionally handled through centralized systems that often suffer from significant challenges such as data security vulnerabilities, inefficiency, and lack of transparency. This research paper introduces a novel approach to Medical Device Lifecycle Management (MDLCM) by leveraging blockchain technology to decentralize the process, aiming to enhance security, efficiency, and stakeholder trust. We identify the inherent problems in current centralized systems, including data tampering risks and operational inefficiencies, which can compromise patient safety and impede the seamless management of medical devices. To address these issues, our study proposes a blockchain-based decentralized system, utilizing Ethereum smart contracts to automate and secure the MDLCM process. The methodology encompasses the design and implementation of a smart contract framework to facilitate transparent and secure interactions among all stakeholders involved in the lifecycle of medical devices, from manufacturing to post-market surveillance. Our results demonstrate the potential of blockchain technology to provide a robust solution for the challenges faced by traditional MDLCM systems, offering improved data integrity, traceability, and automation of compliance checks. The implications of this research are significant, suggesting a transformative shift towards more secure, efficient, and transparent management of medical devices within the healthcare sector. However, limitations such as blockchain scalability and the need for a supportive regulatory framework are acknowledged. Future work will focus on enhancing the scalability of the blockchain solution, exploring integration with other technologies like IoT and AI, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to facilitate widespread adoption.