How online healthcare team evolve into organization: A social network analysis

Abstract

Objective: The rapid development of online healthcare has greatly promoted the transformation of healthcare service. The effectiveness of online healthcare is enhanced by the team that supports the doctor–patient connection. However, extant researches lack the comprehensive analysis of social networks within online healthcare team. In this study, we aim to clarify the characteristics and models of online healthcare team. Method: This study focuses on the online healthcare context and collects data from online healthcare team. Using social network analysis, the social networks of online healthcare members are also developed as part of the research. Result: This study uncovers the different modes of online healthcare teams from individual, team and organizational levels. These results shed light on the characteristics of an online healthcare team and show that such teams are capable of restructuring social networks. In addition, collaboration between teams allows for the development of multilevel relationships and the potential for the online healthcare team to evolve into a large-scale online healthcare organization. Conclusion: Through social network analysis, this study offers a fresh viewpoint on online healthcare and its implications for management, team construction, and organizational restruction. By examining the characteristics and models of online healthcare team, this research offers valuable insights for improving the overall effectiveness of online healthcare.