Research study on social networks, journey of health care, coordination of care and secondary complications.

Trying to navigate through community services (visits to physicians, follow-up tests etc) can be very challenging following a spinal cord injury. Social networks (friends, family, colleagues, health care professionals, community groups and organizations) are important sources of support, information, and/or guidance. These social networks can play an important role in helping with coordination of care and navigating through the health care system. We are interested in understanding how social networks may help with access to services, coordination of care and how these social networks may relate to secondary complications. For example, who makes up the social network, what role(s) do these individuals play, how close/important are these relationships?

This social networks study is part of Sara Guilcher’s doctoral work at the University of Toronto. Sara is a physical therapist, with a background in clinical psychology, and is a doctoral fellow of the Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation. The results will be useful in identifying the needs and gaps related to social networks and coordination of community services for individuals with a spinal cord injury.

What is the purpose if this study?

The purpose of this study is to better understand the role of social networks with coordination of care and the prevalence of secondary complications for individuals living in the community with a spinal cord injury.

Who is eligible?

Anyone who is English speaking with a spinal cord injury living in Canada.

What’s involved?

• Completing a phone questionnaire with Sara which will take approximately 60 minutes.
•You will receive a $50 gift certificate for participating.

To learn more about this research:

Contact Sara Guilcher by e-mail anytime (sara.guilcher@utoronto.ca) or by phone at the University of Toronto (416-946 8563 or toll free 1-877 622 2931).

Your questionnaire responses will be kept confidential.