A social network framework to support relatives of hospitalized patients

Social networks have a significant influence in a patient´s environment. An efficient social network framework that addresses the socio cultural communication needs of hospitalized patients´ caregivers can play an important role to improve a patient´s treatment. We proposed e-Ziarah Caregiver Social Network (CSN) system, a working model that reflects the design and application within the cultural context in the healthcare environment. Our framework encompasses multi-directional communication relationships that exist among indicative roles for CSN´s players which are further illustrated and can be adapted depending on the cultural needs. In the proposed model, we introduce several unique embedded application functions to meet the socio-communication requirements of a typical caregiver within a healthcare facility.