Layered Architecture for Internet of Things-based Healthcare System: A Systematic Literature Review

Internet of Things (IoT), known as a new paradigm, has shown to have a significant role in healthcare domains including remote vital sign monitoring systems, physical activity tracking, early disease diagnosis, and prevention of disease risks. Therefore, designing an integrated healthcare system based on Internet of Things is highly dependent on designing a layered architecture pattern. However, there are no comprehensive studies on Internet of Things layered architecture in the healthcare industry. The purpose of this study was to identify and scrutinize different types of layered architecture of Internet of Things in healthcare in terms of functions, and technologies. We evaluated studies proposing layered architecture of Internet of Things based on security aspects (security requirements and solutions). A systematic literature review was conducted by searching IEEE, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science between 2005 and 2019. We were able to find 47 academic studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. We systematically reviewed applied functions and technologies and categorized them into three main layers namely, the perception, network, and application layers. This study also presented a comprehensive classification of sensor types. Only 28 out of 47 studies proposing Internet of Things architecture addressed security aspects among which privacy, authentication, and access control, confidentiality, and integrity had the highest rank. The layered architecture of Internet of Things is needed to provide an integrated framework for healthcare system, make better communication, and enhance the information management process. We suggest several potential solutions for future research directions according to technical, management, and security challenges