Using social network analysis approach in developing rural psychiatrist workforce

Abstract

Objective This study examines how rural and remote junior doctors career decisions are influenced by highly connected principles within a discipline. Methods Social network analysis was completed with data collected, by structured interview, with five psychiatry trainees and three early career psychiatrists in a rural location rated MM3 using the Modified Monash Model. UNICET software was used to determine the interactions between individual networks to look for overlap and common influencers. Results A single central, highly connected, psychiatrist was found at the core of the entire social network. This connector was instrumental in recruitment and retention in rural psychiatry workforce. Conclusion Improving the understanding of human capital can encourage innovative solutions in developing sustainable strategies for recruiting and retaining rural psychiatry workforces.