Networks of HIV Service Organisations: Changes Over Time and Implications for HIV Elimination

Abstract

Comprehensive Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) services are seldom found within a single organisation. This motivates organisations to form partnerships to achieve optimal outcomes. However, the complexity of inter-organisational relationships can hinder the process of achieving an effective and coordinated response to the HIV epidemic. Understanding the evolution of these inter-organisational relationships can shed light on ways to improve the delivery of these service provisions. This study examines the organisational networks of the HIV care landscape in the Chicago area across 3 years (2015–17). The results of longitudinal analysis indicate that although most organisations still perceive this landscape to be moderately competitive, they have developed more formalised ties and increased their collaborations across 3 years. Further, with passage of time, this organisational network has become denser with no organisational isolation, indicating connection between all organisations in this landscape. Practical implications for organisations are discussed.