BIBIS: A Blockchain-Biometric Framework for Tamper-Proof Newborn Identification in Healthcare Facilities

Abstract

Traditional RFID and barcode systems in healthcare facilities worldwide demonstrate patient safety risks through mis-identification events occurring at rates of 10−3 and 10−2 because they depend on transferable physical tokens. The identification systems currently in use do not include cryptographic security features, complete audit trails, or dependable biometric verification, creating security vulnerabilities that threaten both patient safety and regulatory compliance. This research presents the Blockchain-Integrated Biometric Identification System (BIBIS) as a novel method uniting Futronic FS80H fingerprint scanners with distributed blockchain infrastructure to establish permanent mother–newborn identity connections at birth. The system employs Live Finger Detection technology to simultaneously capture maternal and neonatal biometric data, generating SHA-256 cryptographic hashes that smart contracts subsequently link and securely store on a proof-of-authority blockchain network. Sensitive biometric templates are protected through IPFS off-chain encryption, which enables high performance and scalability while maintaining stringent security standards. Theoretical studies demonstrate that BIBIS achieves a mix-up probability of 10−7, exceeding existing systems by four to five orders of magnitude, while maintaining verification throughput at 4≤seconds. The system meets strict biometric accuracy standards through its verification rates, which achieve False Acceptance Rates below 0.1% and False Rejection Rates below 1%. Biometric identification accuracy increases significantly from 77% at birth to 98% at six months due to infant physical development. Security analyses show that blockchain immutability, coupled with comprehensive audit-trail features, makes data tampering virtually impossible. Additionally, the dual-scanner setup facilitates simultaneous biometric data collection, creating untransferable and non-counterfeitable identity connections. The proof-of-authority consensus mechanism ensures healthcare-friendly performance while preserving the security advantages of a distributed system. Overall, BIBIS represents a transformative advancement in neonatal identification technology by integrating proven biometric and blockchain solutions to address critical gaps inherent in current systems.