Quantum Threat Defense: A Framework for Migrating IoT-Based Healthcare Systems

This study is significant because it directly addresses the emerging quantum threat to IoT-based healthcare systems, which represent one of the most critical and vulnerable sectors of modern infrastructure. While much of the existing literature explores general post-quantum cryptography (PQC) migration strategies, there is a lack of frameworks specifically tailored to the unique constraints of healthcare IoT ecosystems. By proposing a phased, hybrid migration framework that accounts for the layered IoT architecture, device heterogeneity, and resource limitations, this paper provides a practical and structured pathway for ensuring security in healthcare systems against future quantum-enabled attacks.

The framework’s emphasis on crypto-agility, interoperability, and phased adoption is particularly important for healthcare environments where continuous operation and patient safety are paramount. Furthermore, the study bridges a critical gap by integrating both technical and operational perspectives, making it valuable for policymakers, system architects, and healthcare providers preparing for the quantum era. Ultimately, this work contributes to safeguarding patient data, ensuring the reliability of medical devices, and preserving trust in digital healthcare services in the face of advancing quantum computing capabilities.