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.