Exploration of the integration of care for persons with a traumatic brain injury using social network analysis methodology

INTRODUCTION Integration is a popular strategy to increase the quality of care within systems of care. However, there is no common language, approach or tool allowing for a valid description, comparison and evaluation of integrated care. Social network analysis could be a viable methodology to provide an objective picture of integrated networks. GOAL OF THE ARTICLE To illustrate social network analysis use in the context of systems of care for traumatic brain injury. METHOD We surveyed members of a network using a validated questionnaire to determine the links between them. We determined the density, centrality, multiplexity, and quality of the links reported. RESULTS The network was described as moderately dense (0.6), the most prevalent link was knowledge, and four organisation members of a consortium were central to the network. Social network analysis allowed us to create a graphic representation of the network. CONCLUSION Social network analysis is a useful methodology to objectively characterise integrated networks.