A critical analysis of enhancing healthcare information system security through blockchain and innovative technologies

Healthcare data is highly sensitive and can be compromised or exploited if not properly handled. Τhere is an urgent need for healthcare institutions to share such information to enhance the quality of treatment and patient welfare. As technology evolves, it has become commonplace to transmit healthcare data over wireless communication channels, which are vulnerable to eavesdropping and tampering. Blockchain-based healthcare systems have been growing significantly due to their key features, such as secure data transfer, reliable contracts, and trusted infrastructure. To safeguard healthcare data from such risks, blockchain and other emerging technologies can be leveraged to protect security and privacy. In this paper, we discussed the development of key technologies and their application in healthcare. Blockchain offers a decentralized digital service that provides high security through a sophisticated consensus mechanism. Fifth Generation (5G) and Sixth Generation (6G) wireless networks provide high-speed, low-latency, and reliable transmission, which benefits telehealth. Various forms of cyber reality and Digital Twins (DTs) further improve the quality of telehealth. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly Federated learning (FL), allows the effective use of data across healthcare facilities. Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and related technologies are crucial to counter future threats posed by the manipulation of quantum computing capabilities. While these technologies cooperatively offer an excellent prospect for enhancing overall healthcare security ecosystems, there are still many challenges that will hamper their actual realization. We pointed out those challenges and presented a futuristic view on blockchain-based healthcare security.