Remote Opioid Use Disorder Research Study

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School are conducting a study on the use of digital monitoring tools to support individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD).

Fast Facts

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Started Buprenorphine, Methadone, Sublocade (Buprenorphine ER), or Naltrexone in the last 6 months (or about to start)

Compensation Provided

Conducted Remotely (access to smartphone required)

Study Background

The main goal of this study is to understand how wearable sensors and apps can detect cravings, track their changes over time, and ultimately improve treatment for opioid use disorder.

This study, called D3PiCT (Digital Phenotyping in MOUD), aims to explore how wearable sensors, like a smartwatch, and mobile applications can be used to monitor individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder. Participants will use a Garmin Vívosmart 5 smartwatch and the RAE Health mobile app to track their physiological data and detect signs of craving. The app also provides access to recovery-related data and de-escalation tools that can assist in managing cravings. Participants will be expected to wear the smartwatch for the entire study period and interact with the app daily, including completing a brief end-of-day survey. Participants will complete brief surveys at baseline, 30 days, and 60 days during the 60-day study period.

Study Background

The main goal of this study is to understand how wearable sensors and apps can detect cravings, track their changes over time, and ultimately improve treatment for opioid use disorder.

This study, called D3PiCT (Digital Phenotyping in MOUD), aims to explore how wearable sensors, like a smartwatch, and mobile applications can be used to monitor individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder. Participants will use a Garmin Vívosmart 5 smartwatch and the RAE Health mobile app to track their physiological data and detect signs of craving. The app also provides access to recovery-related data and de-escalation tools that can assist in managing cravings. Participants will be expected to wear the smartwatch for the entire study period and interact with the app daily, including completing a brief end-of-day survey. Participants will complete brief surveys at baseline, 30 days, and 60 days during the 60-day study period.

Additional Information

This study seeks to better understand the relationship between cravings and opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment, and whether digital monitoring can provide real-time insights to help personalize and improve treatment strategies for individuals undergoing medication-assisted treatment.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD)
  • Started Buprenorphine, Methadone, Sublocade (Buprenorphine ER), or Naltrexone in the last 6 months (or about to start)
  • Have access to an Android or iOS compatible smartphone
  • Ages 18+
  • No current cast, splint, amputation, or other limitations of the non-dominant (the arm you do not write with)
  • Speak English
  • Willing to use Garmin Vívosmart 5 and RAE Health app for 60 days
  • Willing to complete surveys at baseline, 30 days, and 60 days
  • Not currently or planned to be incarcerated
  • Participants will be expected to wear the smartwatch for the entire study period and interact with the app daily, including completing a brief end-of-day survey.

  • You will use a Garmin Vívosmart 5 smartwatch and the RAE Health mobile app for 60 days.

  • You will complete surveys at three different time points: Day 0 (baseline), Day 30, and Day 60.

  • All visits and surveys will be conducted virtually (via phone/Zoom calls and online surveys).

  • The initial visit will last up to 2.5 hours, and the two follow-up visits will take no more than 30 minutes each.

As a participant, you can receive up to $299 in gift cards for full participation.

  • $99 for completing the baseline visit

  • $60 for completing ≥50% of study activities by Day 20 and Day 40

  • $40 for completing the Day 30 outcomes survey

  • $100 for completing the Day 60 outcomes survey and full participation

Additionally, you will keep the Garmin smartwatch and can continue to use the RAE Health app free of charge for as long as the app remains in service.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.