Featured Studies
STOP COVID-19: Understanding Rapid Antigen Tests’ Performance during Peri-Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection Period
Overview: The STOP COVID-19 study aims to understand how antigen tests perform in comparison to PCR tests for the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus after the onset of symptoms. Further, we are exploring the utility of symptomology, wearable sensor data, and other multimodal input for the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus after the onset of symptoms Learn more
COMMODE-seat: Creating Key Insights from Everyday Life
Overview: The Heart Seat is a toilet seat that monitors multiple vital signs via embedded cardiac sensors and automatically transmits this clinical data over wi-fi. The Heart Seat is an investigational device developed by Casana, a software and technology company that is dedicated to helping people with chronic conditions better manage their health from home. In the COMMODE-seat (Correlating Outcomes with Mobile Monitoring using Digital sEnsors in a seat) study, participants with multiple chronic conditions will receive a Heart Seat; the passively collected data will help us identify patterns associated with changes in their health. Learn more
Healthy at Home: Creating Novel Pathways to Multidisciplinary Care
Overview: The Healthy at Home pilot study evaluates novel methods of delivering care to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, COPD is characterized by chronic symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and excess mucus production. Early recognition and treatment of worsening COPD symptoms and access to evidence-based interventions such as pulmonary rehabilitation are critical to improving clinical outcomes and quality of life. Learn more
Mental Resilience: Digital Tools for Wellness
Overview: As a step towards improving access to mental health support, we will study the usability and efficacy of a mobile wellness application that aims to enhance mental resiliency and psychological flexibility. The application was developed by ieso, a private company focused on creating technologies that increase access to psychological therapies. Using a conversational format, the application provides information about behavioral approaches and cognitive techniques that may help individuals concerned about their mood. Learn more
NExUS-Health: Novel Exams Using Smart Technologies for Health Promotion
Overview: NExUS-Health invites UMass Memorial Health patients with chronic diseases to enroll in a multi-year prospective study. During the study, sensor data from participants’ smart devices will be used to identify signals associated with the need for acute care and other indicators of worsening health status. Learn more
Virtual Breastfeeding Support: Promoting the Well-Being of Mothers and Infants
Overview: Virtual lactation consultation or “telelactation” is an emerging modality for mothers to receive breastfeeding support. More research is needed to investigate whether virtual lactation appointments can increase breastfeeding rates and adequately meet the needs of new mothers. The Program in Digital Medicine is partnering with SimpliFed, a company that provides virtual breastfeeding and baby feeding support, to evaluate the effect of telelactation on maternal health and child development over the course of a 12-month study. Learn more