Blockchain design in health data management

Delays in communication and diverse workflows impact healthcare organizations, due to a lack of interoperability and data management issues. Patients generate a large amount of health data to be acquired, retained and distributed. In recent years, electronic health records (EHRs) are becoming increasingly popular to manage patients’ data, enhancing the overall quality of healthcare services. However, EHRs face several challenges, including privacy concerns, economic constraints, and technological limitations. This paper aims to provide a blockchain-based platform to enhance EHR interoperability, allowing for the secure and fast sharing of patient medical data. We used the design science research methodology to define the stages of the research. As a result, our innovative blockchain platform can monitor patients by listing their therapies and treatment history. Furthermore, leveraging on blockchain technology, data becomes part of a distributed database where medical professionals maintain patient privacy and eliminate transparency risks. The paper contributes to the description of merging the medical value chain, the design of the system architectural model, the construction of system components, and the validation of the system components, demonstrating the feasibility of data exchange between different healthcare organizations.