Open AccessA Blockchain-Based Consent Platform for Active Assisted Living: Modeling Study and Conceptual Framework
Author(s) -
Pedro Elkind Velmovitsky,
Pedro Augusto Da Silva E Souza Miranda,
Hélène Vaillancourt,
Tania Donovska,
Jennifer Teague,
Plinio Pelegrini Morita
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
jmir. journal of medical internet research/journal of medical internet research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.446
H-Index - 142
eISSN - 1439-4456
pISSN - 1438-8871
DOI - 10.2196/20832
Subject(s) - transparency (behavior) , conceptual framework , process (computing) , blockchain , computer science , informed consent , process management , data collection , conceptual model , knowledge management , data science , computer security , business , database , medicine , sociology , social science , alternative medicine , pathology , operating system
Background Recent advancements in active assisted living (AAL) technologies allow older adults to age well in place. However, sensing technologies increase the complexity of data collection points, making it difficult for users to consent to data collection. One possible solution for improving transparency in the consent management process is the use of blockchain, an immutable and timestamped ledger. Objective This study aims to provide a conceptual framework based on technology aimed at mitigating trust issues in the consent management process. Methods The consent management process was modeled using established methodologies to obtain a mapping of trust issues. This mapping was then used to develop a conceptual framework based on previous monitoring and surveillance architectures for connected devices. Results In this paper, we present a model that maps trust issues in the informed consent process; a conceptual framework capable of providing all the necessary underlining technologies, components, and functionalities required to develop applications capable of managing the process of informed consent for AAL, powered by blockchain technology to ensure transparency; and a diagram showing an instantiation of the framework with entities comprising the participants in the blockchain network, suggesting possible technologies that can be used. Conclusions Our conceptual framework provides all the components and technologies that are required to enhance the informed consent process. Blockchain technology can help overcome several privacy challenges and mitigate trust issues that are currently present in the consent management process of data collection involving AAL technologies.