Impact and Implications of Quantum Computing on Blockchain-based Electronic Health Record Systems

Abstract

Aims This study will investigate the integration of quantum computing and blockchain technology of EHR systems, evaluating the potential and major vulnerabilities of the developed blockchain platforms. In addition, through this evaluation, in this paper, transaction capabilities, energy consumption, and quantum susceptibilities of Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Ripple are being evaluated. Further, research gaps on quantum implications and transition strategies to quantum-resistant systems for achieving secure, efficient, and patient-centric Healthcare 4.0 are identified. Background The embedding of quantum computing and blockchain technology within EHR systems represents the next wave of scientific development within the healthcare sector. However, at the same time, emerging quantum capabilities have raised serious vulnerabilities for major blockchain platforms. If Ethereum and Bitcoin display quantum threats regarding their high transaction capacities, then Ripple, with its high rate of transactions, truly presents a high stake in terms of quantum threats. Further, the energy consumption discrepancies pose some environmental impacts and point to the need for research on energy-efficient quantum-resistant systems. Objective This research investigates the potential and vulnerabilities of major blockchain platforms with electronic health record systems in a new quantum computing environment. In that context, this work evaluates transaction capacities, quantum threats, and energy use for platforms like Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Ripple. Additionally, it seeks to identify research gaps and propose transition strategies toward a quantum-resistant system in support of the development of a secure and efficient Healthcare 4.0. Methods This work focused on assessing the potential and vulnerabilities of blockchain platforms under quantum computing threats in EHR systems. We analyzed transaction processing rates, quantum susceptibilities, and energy consumption metrics for the Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Ripple platforms. A complete literature review is presented with respect to realistic quantum implications and practical transition strategies toward quantum-resistant systems oriented to support the development of secure and efficient Healthcare 4.0. Results The evaluations revealed that Ethereum processed 30 transactions per second and Bitcoin processed 7, with each having low quantum vulnerability. Ripple, at 1500 transactions per second, also had significant quantum vulnerabilities. In addition to energy use, Bitcoin consumes 707 kWh per single transaction compared with Ripple's 0.0078 kWh. Other gaps in research existed in real-world quantum consequences and considerations for transitioning to quantum-resistant systems, all of which are vital for making Healthcare 4.0 secure and efficient. Conclusion This has underscored the transformative potential as well as the weaknesses involved in integrating quantum computing and blockchain technologies into EHR. However, Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Ripple vary in their transaction rates; all three face a similar quantum threat while having large differences in energy consumption. These are problems that would call for more research into quantum-resistant systems and strategic implementation. Actualization of a secure, efficient, and patient-centered Healthcare 4.0 will call for proactive research collaboration and strategic efforts towards ensuring technological and environmental sustainability.