Social network analysis as an analytic tool for interaction patterns in primary care practices

Ann Fam Med. 2005 Sep-Oct;3(5):443-8. doi: 10.1370/afm.344.

Abstract

Purpose: Social network analysis (SNA) provides a way of quantitatively analyzing relationships among people or other information-processing agents. Using 2 practices as illustrations, we describe how SNA can be used to characterize and compare communication patterns in primary care practices.

Methods: Based on data from ethnographic field notes, we constructed matrices identifying how practice members interact when practice-level decisions are made. SNA software (UCINet and KrackPlot) calculates quantitative measures of network structure including density, centralization, hierarchy and clustering coefficient. The software also generates a visual representation of networks through network diagrams.

Results: The 2 examples show clear distinctions between practices for all the SNA measures. Potential uses of these measures for analysis of primary care practices are described.

Conclusions: SNA can be useful for quantitative analysis of interaction patterns that can distinguish differences among primary care practices.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Decision Making*
  • Family Practice* / organization & administration
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Practice Management, Medical*
  • Primary Health Care* / organization & administration