Professional networks and the alignment of individual perceptions about medical innovation

This study investigated the role of professionals’ social networks and social capital in the formation of similar individual perceptions about a highly innovative robotic surgical system. Methodology: We collected data from a sample of 50 professionals, including both physicians and nurses, working in three hospital wards belonging to an Italian hospital organization. Using a survey, we gathered data on professionals’ demographic characteristics, the adoption and impact of the new technology, and social networks. We tested our hypotheses using a dyadic perspective and logistic regression quadratic assignment procedures. Findings: Our findings document that professionals’ perceptions regarding technological change were more likely to be similar when they were connected and exhibited similarity in some social capital characteristics and adoption behavior. Practice Implications: These results have important implications for health care executives and administrators, as well as for health professionals characterized by high degrees of autonomy and for which organizational change can be affected by professional or organizational resistance.
Source: Health Care Management Review - Category: American Health Tags: Features Source Type: research