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Social Network Diagramming as an Applied Tool for Public Health: Lessons Learned From an HCV Cluster
Katarina M Grande1, Marisa Stanley1, Carrie Redo1
1At the time of the study, Katarina M. Grande was with the Population Health Institute, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. At the time of the study, Marisa Stanley was with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Division of Public Health, Madison. Carrie Redo and Amy Wergin are with the Manitowoc County Health Department, WI. Sheila Guilfoyle and Mari Gasiorowicz are with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Division of Public Health, Madison.
Objectives:
We present an applied example of social network diagramming from 2010 to 2012 that was used to guide follow-up in a large HCV cluster in rural Wisconsin.
Methods:
In addition to collecting standard individual-level attributes, we also obtained partner-level information. Both sets of data were input into a network diagramming program to create a series of diagrams that emphasized variables, such as risk factors, key location in the network, and number of partners.
Results:
The visualization and cluster analysis guided testing and intervention priorities, were useful in sharing de-identified information about the cluster between health departments and community organizations and illustrated the key role young females played in holding the cluster together.
Conclusions:
Social network diagramming should be considered a practical and important public health tool for use in cluster management.
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