Integrating medical imaging datasets with blockchain wallets: A case study on ARDS-COVID19 patients

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Health IT Security
• Blockchain Technology

Background:

• Medical imaging is crucial for acute conditions like ARDS in ICUs.
• Radiological data are often siloed in PACS, lacking interoperability and patient control.
• Current systems hinder efficient and secure access to critical imaging data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a blockchain-enabled architecture for integrating radiological imaging data.
• To create a patient-controlled digital wallet (BioWallet) for secure DICOM image access.
• To enhance interoperability, traceability, and patient control over medical imaging data.

Main Methods:

• Developed a blockchain architecture using verifiable credentials and decentralized identifiers (DIDs).
• Integrated a FHIR-compliant backend for standards-based access to DICOM images and metadata.
• Conducted a validation scenario with synthetic ARDS-COVID19 cases in an ICU setting.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 67% reduction in image access time compared to traditional systems.
• Demonstrated 100% success in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive imaging data.
• Reported high clinician satisfaction and validated consent enforceability.

Conclusions:

• The blockchain-enabled architecture offers a feasible and valuable decentralized, patient-centric approach to imaging data governance.
• The system enhances transparency for image-driven research and supports FAIR data principles.
• The architecture aligns with GDPR and future European digital identity frameworks for secure health data management.