Multi-Factor Authentication for Enhanced Security of Mobile Health Data Collection Systems.

Abstract

Introduction: This study describes an additional enhanced authentication method for Mobile Health Data Collection Systems (MHDCS) compared to the commonly existing method of using usernames and passwords for field data collectors. The mechanism introduced in this study was developed to overcome the authentication security challenges faced during the collection of electronic primary health data through MHDCS by adding location and time as additional features of user authentication.

Objectives: To enable multi-factor authentication for enhanced security of Mobile Health Data Collection Systems (MHDCS) for improved primary health data collection.

Methodology: In the design and development of the artifact of this research study, Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) approach was used. A qualitative study based on one-on-one face interviews was conducted were audio recorders were used and transcribed verbatim and data analysis was performed using the inductive thematic analysis approach.

Results: The results were categorized according to the main findings of the study including; users’ past experiences with participants that included data collectors and managers who had various experiences and knowledge about MHDCS and how location and time as additional features of authentication could be used to improve the quality of data collection; participants general knowledge about MHDCS where they were largely knowledgeable and informed; participants’ experiences while testing the enhanced system which was generally perceived as easy to learn; participants’ perception of the enhanced system which was perceived as advanced for improved quality of data collection and yet, user-friendly; participants’ recommendations for the enhanced system where they suggested integration of use of National IDs to prevent duplication and the system’s extended use to remote areas; participants’ feelings about future use of the enhanced system where they expressed interest to recommend the system for future use.

Conclusion: The results show that location and time as additional features of authentication improve the security of accessing system resources and improve the quality of primary health data collection.