Blockchain-enabled security for healthcare data communication in IoT-driven 5G networks

Abstract

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G networks has transformed healthcare by enabling real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, and seamless data sharing. However, these advancements also pose critical challenges, including data security, privacy risks, and integrity concerns, particularly in IoT-enabled healthcare systems. To address these issues, this study presents a blockchain-based framework for secure healthcare data communication within IoT architectures operating over 5G networks. The proposed model utilizes blockchain to enable decentralized, transparent, and tamper-resistant data management. It introduces non-terminal nodes—intermediate IoT devices responsible for forwarding, processing, or clustering data without being its origin or final recipient—enhancing the scalability and reliability of the network. Key components such as the SHA-256 hash algorithm, smart contracts, and clustering mechanisms are integrated into a layered architecture to improve data encryption, transmission, and ledger maintenance. This design ensures critical properties such as immutability, traceability, and trustless operation, effectively mitigating issues like unauthorized access, high latency, and poor scalability. The use of smart contracts automates access control and data validation, while clustering reduces communication overhead, optimizing overall system performance.

Experimental evaluations confirm that the proposed framework significantly reduces transmission delays and enhances throughput, without compromising security. By leveraging blockchain's strengths and 5G's speed, the model offers a secure, efficient, and scalable solution for healthcare data exchange in IoT-driven environments. This research highlights the potential of combining blockchain with IoT and 5G to address pressing concerns in digital healthcare systems, laying the groundwork for future innovations in secure and resilient healthcare infrastructure.