A data-hiding technique with authentication, integration, and confidentiality for electronic patient records

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Information Security
• Medical Informatics

Background:

• Electronic Patient Records (EPRs) require secure transmission methods.
• Existing methods may lack robust authentication, integration, and confidentiality.
• Internet-based data sharing poses security challenges for sensitive medical information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a data-hiding technique for EPRs.
• To provide authentication, integration, and confidentiality for transmitted EPR data.
• To embed EPR data and digital signatures within a hospital's mark image.

Main Methods:

• A novel data-hiding technique, the "bipolar multiple-number base," was developed.
• EPR data (diagnostic reports, ECGs) and digital signatures were hidden within a mark image.
• The technique supports integration of diverse medical data types into a single mark image.

Main Results:

• Experimental results validated the integrity and invisibility of hidden EPR data.
• The technique successfully achieved confidentiality through decryption with the original mark image.
• Authorized users can perfectly separate and restore all hidden data.

Conclusions:

• The bipolar multiple-number base technique effectively secures EPR data during internet transmission.
• It offers a robust solution for authenticating, integrating, and maintaining the confidentiality of medical records.
• This method enhances the security and usability of shared electronic patient records.