Blockchain-Based Framework for Enhancing Interoperability and Security in EHR Exchange Using Lightweight ECC Proxy Re-Encryption

Background:The sharing of electronic health records among hospitals is crucial for ensuring consistent patient treatment.However, the process remains challenging due to the existence of varied systems, privacy concerns and interoperability issues.It is often difficult to maintain an equilibrium of security, efficiency and compliance across all platforms.Objective: The objective of this article is to develop a framework that enables secure, efficient and interoperable Electronic health records (EHR) sharing across healthcare systems.Methods: The proposed work introduces a Lightweight elliptic curve cryptography proxy re-encryption (LWECC-PRE) framework that facilitates safe and distributed EHR exchange through Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric blockchains.It integrates Hybrid elliptic curve proxy re-encryption (HEC-PRE) by combining elliptic curve cryptography with proxy re-encryption for giving healthcare providers the means to control access to confidential data.Besides, the design incorporates the Elliptic curve integrated encryption scheme (ECIES) for secure data encryption and the Elliptic curve digital signature algorithm (ECDSA) to verify the integrity and authenticity of data communications.It uses Interplanetary file system (IPFS) for secure peer-to-peer storage.The design supports asynchronous record sharing between blockchain networks through smart contracts and regulated re-encryption. Results:The experimental results show that the framework minimizes computation overheads, preserves patient privacy and improves interoperability of distributed healthcare systems. Conclusion:The proposed solution addresses key challenges in EHR sharing by providing a safe, secure, efficient and patient-centred solution to healthcare data exchange.