The key informant technique
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1Institute of General Practice, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Exeter, UK.
Background And Objective:
This article considers the role of the key informant technique as a qualitative research method and examines the potential contribution of the approach to health care research.
Method:
The principles underlying the technique and the advantages and disadvantages are considered, illustrated with examples from a range of social science studies.
Results And Conclusion:
An example of the author's own use of key informants in a study of the professional relationship between general practitioners and specialists is described.
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