title: Paths and pacemakers: innovation diffusion networks in multihospital systems and alliances.
abstract: This article examines the role of multihospital systems and alliances as "innovation carriers." Drawing upon studies of interpersonal and interorganizational communications networks, the authors suggest how membership in a system or alliance, as well as network characteristics, affects innovation practices in general acute care hospitals.
authors.affiliation: National Cancer Institute's Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Bethesda, Maryland.
authors.forename: M M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: McKinney
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Kaluzny
authors.forename: H S
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Zuckerman
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D006769:Hospitals, General / Q000458:organization & administration; D009096:Multi-Institutional Systems / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D014481:United States