Development of A Blockchain-Based National Patient Identification System for Seamless Healthcare Access in Kenya

Abstract

Kenya’s healthcare system is fragmented, with challenges in patient identification, data sharing, and ensuring data security. This project addresses these issues by designing and implementing Sim-Health, a blockchain-based national patient identification system. Sim-Health incorporates three modules: the Patient Identification Module, which assigns unique, tamper-proof IDs; the Data Sharing Module, which facilitates secure and interoperable sharing of patient data; and the Data Security Module, ensuring compliance with the Data Protection Act of 2019.Evaluation shows that Sim-Health has the potential to reduce duplicate records, improve interoperability, and enhance data security in healthcare facilities across Kenya. The findings underscore the viability of blockchain in addressing pressing healthcare challenges while ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks