User and Market Research of Application Solutions for the Prevention of Opioid Overdose Fatalities

Abstract

In my capstone project, I researched potential complementary software solutions to existing wearable hardware being developed by PhD students in the UT Cockrell School of Engineering to be used to provide aid to victims of opioid overdoses. Through market research, a literature review, and subject matter expert interviews, I investigated the current opioid addiction crisis and collected information about how opioids are administered, how opioid overdoses are identified, how opioid overdoses are treated, and what solutions are being explored to provide timely aid to victims of an opioid overdose. From this initial research, I explored possible application solutions which involve the general public as a means of providing the opioid overdose antidote Naloxone to victims of opioid overdoses. Through one-on-one interviews and a survey, I gauged the general interest of the public in providing aid to victims in need as a part of potential application solutions. Ultimately, my research provides greater light into what software and hardware solutions are most viable and effective in addressing the needs of opioid addicts who overdose.

First Name
Justin
Last Name
Segler
Organization
Supervisor
Date
Spring 2019