An Optimized Consortium Blockchain for Medical Information Sharing

Medical information is private, and medical data are valuable for medical research. Thus, medical information sharing is challenging because the data might be manipulated improperly and revealed during the operational process. The accuracy and integrity of medical information should be guaranteed throughout the sharing process. Medical institutions require shared information for scientific research and development; however, the issue of privacy inhibits the sharing process. In this article, we propose a new business process and a blockchain-based platform for medical information sharing. Our method exploits the advantages of blockchain in medical information recording and sharing. Information can be stored, shared, and credibly verified among parties in the distributed network. In addition, we propose a new consensus algorithm and a universal anonymous sharing model. These methods improve the efficiency and security of medical information sharing between users. In this way, both the information and the traces of the transaction can be stored in a distributed manner to prevent manipulation and fraud. Consequently, the value of medical information can be fully utilized.

Automated summary

This article discusses the challenges and solutions for medical information sharing, proposing a new business process and platform based on blockchain technology. By introducing a new consensus algorithm and an anonymous sharing model, the efficiency and security of medical information sharing are improved.