ResearchProjects

Predicting SUD after Trauma: Leveraging Audiovisual Data in the Emergency Department
Funded by: NYU Silver School of Social Work
Project dates: April 2025 - August 2025
Principal Investigator: Saba, Shaddy
Principal Investigator: Schultebraucks K
PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This pilot study examines whether audiovisual data—such as speech, facial expressions, and movement—can improve the prediction of new-onset substance use disorder (SUD) among recently traumatized emergency department (ED) patients. Using data from an ongoing NIH-funded study, it will develop and compare machine learning models based on electronic health records (EHR) alone versus EHR plus audiovisual data to assess the added predictive value of this novel information source. Findings will inform the development of scalable, ED-integrated tools for early identification and prevention of SUD following trauma.