title: The application of social network theory to hospital cost containment.
abstract: Using Massachusetts as an example of a state which is burdened with high health care costs, Social Network Theory is used as a basis for examining some factors which contribute to these high costs. Vignettes are described to indicate that some hospitalization may be a consequence of inappropriate social service intervention prior to onset of symptoms requiring medical attention.
authors.affiliation: University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
authors.forename: T W
authors.initials: TW
authors.lastname: Elwood