ICT and information security perspectives in E-Health Systems

Abstract

This study examines issues pertinent to the rapidly evolving use of information as a currency of modern economies. Access to information has important benefits that can be achieved in many areas including, social-economic development, education and healthcare. In healthcare, for example, access to appropriate information can minimise visits to physicians and periods of hospitalisation for patients suffering from chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension and HIV/AIDS. This will in turn reduce the cost of healthcare provision. This study examines theoretical and conceptual aspects of E-health as an ICT application area. Various definitions are presented in order to expound concepts associated with E-health. In the study, the links to a successful chain of trust to manage patient health records for E-health deployment are described. These are based on four technology pillars: identity management, asset management, data storage and information security. Practical solutions for integration of E-health with human, material and financial resources are explored.