Social network analysis for farmers’ hearing services in a rural community
Tony Lower A E , Lyn Fragar A , Julie Depcynzksi A , Jeffrey Fuller C , Kathy Challinor B and Warwick Williams DA Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety, University of Sydney, PO Box 256, Moree, NSW 2400, Australia.
B Hunter New England Area Health Service, Locked Bag 9783, NEMSC 2348, Australia.
C University Department of Rural Health (Northern Rivers), University of Sydney and Southern Cross, Lismore, NSW 2470, Australia.
D National Acoustic Laboratories, 126 Greville Street, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia.
E Corresponding author. Email: tonylower@gmail.com
Australian Journal of Primary Health 16(1) 47-51 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY09043
Published: 17 March 2010
Abstract
This study aimed to define current hearing health service networks for farming families in a major regional centre in New South Wales, in order to identify approaches that can strengthen local service provision. A pilot survey of individuals and agencies that potentially work with farmers was undertaken and a social network analysis completed to assess the self-reported links of agencies with each other. Thirteen agencies with a role in hearing health service provision participated with results indicating that nurse audiometrists, WorkCover NSW and agricultural retailers have the lead role in disseminating relevant information within the network. For client referrals the nurse audiometrist, private audiometry services, general practitioners, ear, nose and throat specialists and industry groups played the major roles. Social network analysis can assist in defining hearing health networks and can be used to highlight potential actions that can strengthen networks to enhance services for farmers and their families.
Additional keywords: agriculture, farm, hearing health, occupational health.
Acknowledgements
The Better Hearing for Farming Families project has been funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health. We thank all respondents and the local reference committee for their various inputs.
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