Using technology to track and prevent drug misuse in hospitals

Using Machine Learning and Blockchain Technology to Reduce Drug Diversion in Hospitals

NIH-funded research Autonomous Healthcare, INC. · NIH-10932909

This study is working on a new app and website that use smart technology to help hospitals keep track of how controlled medications are used, making it easier to spot and stop any misuse.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAutonomous Healthcare, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Santa Clara, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932909 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a cloud-based software platform that utilizes blockchain technology and machine learning to track the use of controlled substances in hospitals. By creating an immutable audit trail, the platform will document the transportation and administration of these drugs, helping to identify and prevent drug diversion. The project includes the development of a smartphone app and a web-based dashboard to facilitate real-time monitoring and compliance. The technology will be tested through simulations before being deployed in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing procedures in ambulatory surgical centers where controlled substances are administered.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing procedures involving controlled substances or who are not in ambulatory surgical settings may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce drug diversion in hospitals, enhancing patient safety and ensuring that medications are used appropriately.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of blockchain technology in healthcare is emerging, this specific approach to tracking drug use in hospitals is relatively novel and has not been widely tested.

Where this research is happening

Santa Clara, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.