[Networking: discussing community health and networks. SESPAS Report 2018]

Abstract

Four voices from around Spain discuss community health and networks. These voices understand that the networks are systems formed by interconnected people, with a common interest, that provide support. Networks require a common place and time, in order to generate trust and respect for horizontal work. Thus, networks are appropriate structures for health promotion, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, collaboration and innovation through the participation of those who form them. It is important that networks are evaluated by analysing their autonomy, leadership, quality of links, training, network projection, capacity for integrating groups and synergy.

Keywords: Atención primaria en salud; Community health; Community networks; Community participation; Health promotion; Participación comunitaria; Primary health care; Promoción de la salud; Red social; Redes comunitarias; Salud comunitaria; Social networking.