Implementing zero-knowledge proof authentication on Hyperledger fabric to enhance patient privacy and access control

Abstract

In recent years, the healthcare sector has encountered significant challenges in authenticating identities for online medical services. A predominant reliance on centralized identity management systems (IDMs) has presented obstacles to the seamless exchange of patient identities among various healthcare institutions, often resulting in data isolation within individual silos. Of paramount concern are the potential privacy breaches associated with centralized IDMs, which may compromise patient confidentiality. In response to these challenges, we propose a novel approach to securely sharing patient details across multiple hospitals utilizing the zero-knowledge access protocol (MediCrypt-ZKAP) within the Hyperledger Fabric blockchain framework. By adopting MediCrypt-ZKAP, hospitals can effectively verify the identities of requesting entities without disclosing sensitive patient information, thereby ensuring the highest levels of confidentiality and privacy protection. The proposed system represents a proactive step towards addressing the critical need for secure and interoperable patient data exchange within the healthcare sector. Through the integration of MediCrypt-ZKAP into existing blockchain infrastructure, our solution aims to enhance data security and privacy while promoting seamless collaboration among healthcare institutions.