Networking in primary health care: how connections can increase social capital

This article highlights the growing need for primary healthcare practitioners to develop good networks in what is an evolving healthcare environment. Delivery of direct care is changing rapidly in the UK, as are the ways in which the health service is run. Networks are groups and individuals that a practitioner links into in a variety of ways to enhance their own working practices. There are many modes of networking, including face-to-face contact, virtual contact such as email and social media (SoMe), and telephone contact. The individuals and groups that any one practitioner will network with should include those that will enhance their clinical working practice, enable professional growth and development, and provide opportunities to influence outwards. This is not just about gaining from networks but also about giving to them. This article aims to increase understanding of networking and help practitioners to grow their networks by undertaking the related activities.