MPEG-21 as an access control tool for the National Health Service Care Records Service

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Digital Archiving
• Information Security

Background:

• The National Health Service (NHS) Care Records Service necessitates robust access control for shared patient information.
• Existing systems require improved methods for managing and protecting digital patient records.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the MPEG-21 framework with Intellectual Property Management and Protection (IPMP) for secure patient record access.
• To assess the usability and security of MPEG-21 for integrating diverse patient data types.

Main Methods:

• Utilized DICreator software to link patient records including text, audio, digital imaging, and video.
• Employed Talk-Back 2002 for audio standardization and iTunes for archiving.
• Implemented a key-based access control system within the MPEG-21 structure for data security.

Main Results:

• Successfully linked and archived diverse patient data formats within the MPEG-21 structure.
• Demonstrated secure access control for both healthcare professionals and patients using distinct keys and a dedicated MPEG-21 browser.
• Confirmed that IPMP provides accurate audit trails for authenticating access to medical information.

Conclusions:

• MPEG-21 with IPMP offers a viable solution for secure and auditable access to digital patient records.
• The implemented system enhances patient data confidentiality and integrity within the NHS.
• This approach supports the broader goals of the National Health Service (NHS) Care Records Service for information sharing.