METHODS: Social network theories and methods informed the collection of network data and analysis of advice-seeking relationships among ECHO network members and their nominees. Registered members from two ECHO networks were invited to complete the Qualtrics survey. Networks analysed comprised 398 professionals from mainstream health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisation, education, disability and child safety service settings.
RESULTS: Brokers were well represented, both those who hold knowledge brokerage positions as well as cultural brokers who incorporate clinical and cultural knowledge enabling holistic care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients (38 individuals, 17% of network). Professionals who occupy brokerage positions outside the ECHO network tend to be more connected with co-members within the network.
CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first application of contemporary social network theories and methods to investigate an ECHO network. The findings highlight the connectivity afforded by brokers, enabling the coordination and collaboration necessary for effective care integration. Inclusion of cultural brokers in an ECHO network provides sustained peer group support while also cultivating relationships that facilitate the integration of cultural and clinical knowledge.
方法:社会网络理论和方法为收集网络数据和分析ECHO网络成员及其被提名人之间的咨询关系提供了信息。来自两个ECHO网络的注册成员被邀请完成Qualtrics调查。分析的网络包括来自主流健康的398名专业人员,原住民和托雷斯海峡岛民社区控制的健康组织,教育,残疾和儿童安全服务设置。
结果:经纪人得到了很好的代表,持有知识经纪职位的人以及融入临床和文化知识的文化经纪人,能够为原住民和托雷斯海峡岛民患者提供全面护理(38个人,网络的17%)。在ECHO网络之外占据经纪职位的专业人员往往与网络内的共同成员有更多的联系。
结论:这项研究是当代社会网络理论和方法首次应用于研究ECHO网络。调查结果强调了经纪人提供的连通性,实现有效护理整合所需的协调和协作。将文化经纪人纳入ECHO网络可提供持续的同伴团体支持,同时还培养促进文化和临床知识融合的关系。