Performance indicators and social networks: is there something in common?

Abstract: Introduction The aim of this study is to identify the relation between the performance of a Leprosy Control Program (LCP) and the social network, in a municipality of the brazilian north/northeast region. Method The social network analysis methodology was used. The criteria for choosing the municipality were defined based on low performance of its LCP. The researchers visited the municipality to conduct observations, interviews and secondary data collection. The interviews began with the local coordinator of the program (LCP), the health secretary and two other coordinators. Further interviews were performed with the professionals cited by the “key-informants”, resulted by the use of the name generator technique. Sixteen interviews were conducted with professionals that work directly with the LCP, and it allowed the elaboration of six personal networks and three collective networks. From these, the scenario of the program in three stages were drew up, based on the social network structures: (I) problem identification, (II) statement of problem, and (III) restructuring. Results It was found a “double-centrality”, what means that the general coordinator of the LCP and general coordinator of Epidemiologic Surveillance shared functions in the program, with very strong personal ties. Other relations were characterized as strong or weak and professional. Conclusion It was identified a relation between the LCP performance and the different times of the social networks, which influenced the functionality of this.