Blockchain Based Electronic Health Record System

Abstract

The rapid digitisation of healthcare has led to widespread adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs); however, the majority of currently available systems are based on centralised designs that have security vulnerabilities, lack interoperability, and fail to provide proper patient control. Centralised data repositories are likely to suffer from unauthorised access, data breaches, and single points of failure, while fragmented systems limit the smooth exchange of information between healthcare institutions. The alternatives provided by blockchain technology include a decentralised, tamper-resistant solution that encompasses immutable records, cryptographic security, and auditability. The paper proposes a Blockchain-Based Health Record System that integrates blockchain technology with smart contracts, AES-256 encryption, and the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) to ensure security, scalability, and patient-centred healthcare data management. In the suggested design, IPFS, which can encrypt and store medical records off-chain, is used to handle access control, consent enforcement, and audit logs, while a blockchain smart contract handles these functions. The suggested system will increase data confidentiality, eliminate single points of failure, and enable data sharing among medical professionals. The system corresponds with the current data protection rules and ethical medical care, as it provides patients with complete ownership and control over their medical records. The paper shows that EHR systems with blockchain have the potential to enhance the security, transparency, and interoperability of digital healthcare ecosystems.