QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY IN HEALTHCARE INFORMATION SYSTEMS: ENHANCING SECURITY IN MEDICAL DATA STORAGE AND COMMUNICATION

Abstract

With the increasing digitization of healthcare systems and the growing volume of sensitive medical data being stored and transmitted electronically, ensuring the security and privacy of patient information has become a paramount concern. Traditional cryptographic techniques, while effective to some extent, are susceptible to attacks from quantum computers, which pose a significant threat to the confidentiality and integrity of healthcare data. In response to these challenges, quantum cryptography has emerged as a promising solution for enhancing security in healthcare information systems. This paper provides an overview of quantum cryptography and its application in securing medical data storage and communication. We discuss the unique security requirements of healthcare systems, the limitations of traditional cryptographic methods, and the potential benefits of adopting quantum cryptography. Furthermore, we review existing research and developments in the field, including quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols, quantum-resistant algorithms, and practical implementations of quantum cryptography in healthcare settings. Additionally, we address regulatory compliance issues, ethical considerations, and future directions for research and development. By leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum cryptography offers a robust and future-proof solution for safeguarding medical data against emerging threats, thereby enhancing the security and privacy of healthcare information systems.