No Man Is an Island: How the Social Capital Index Unlocks Behavioral Science Insights
Behavioral science is a powerful tool for understanding how people make decisions. Behavioral science-based technology takes these principles and builds algorithms designed to better support members in areas like medication adherence. But to truly help members, we need to gather as much relevant information as possible about their circumstances.
For example, knowing if someone lives alone or has access to transportation provides insight into their lifestyle. Beyond individual data, which isn’t always available and is rightfully limited by privacy restrictions, publicly available indexes also provide valuable context. One of these is the Social Capital Index, which we’ll explore in this article.
First Things First: What Is the Social Capital Index?
Before diving into the index itself, it’s important to understand the concept of social capital. Social capital refers to the benefits we gain from our social connections. It brings together the social aspect—relationships, interactions, and networks—with the practical advantages they bring. In other words, we recognize that supportive relationships within families, communities, or organizations often improve people’s lives in different ways.
The Social Capital Index measures the strength of social ties at state and county levels. It evaluates factors like family stability, community involvement, volunteer work, and trust in institutions to determine how connected a community is. Using various sources and databases that include census data, county-level health rankings, and societal indexes allows us to make certain assumptions regarding a particular member based on their county of residence.
How Does Social Capital Impact Medication Adherence?
Now that we have all the building blocks in place, let’s look closely at how social capital plays a significant role in whether members stick to their prescribed medications:
- Logistical Support
Members with high social capital have a solid network of family, friends, or community members to lean on. As a result, 44% of U.S. adults help a chronically ill family member or friend manage their health. These networks can help with practical aspects of disease management, such as picking up prescriptions, providing transportation to appointments, and offering assistance in other ways. That’s what friends are for. For those who struggle with physical limitations or lack the time and energy needed to manage their disease, social capital can be the difference between adherence and neglect.
- Emotional Support
Support systems play a critical role in managing chronic conditions or dealing with the side effects of medications. Eleven different studies found a positive impact of family support on medication adherence. Members who are part of a strong social network often benefit from emotional support, whether it’s a shoulder to cry on or shared experiences from those who have been through similar health challenges. Members feel less isolated, and this support helps them manage the mental and emotional toll of their health conditions.
- Trust Building
We are a product of our environment. When members hear about positive healthcare experiences from people they know, they are more likely to trust providers and stick to their prescribed treatments. Without a close community to reach out to, they might turn to questionable online resources and receive unreliable information. A strong, trusted social network encourages members to engage with their health plans and take their medications as directed. Not only that, but people often reach out to their network, asking for recommendations and trusting recommended providers much more.
However, it’s important to note that a close-knit community can also have the opposite effect if it suffers from mistrust, especially due to negative healthcare experiences. Low vaccination rates in some areas are an example of this outcome.
The Role of Behavioral Science and Technology in Addressing Social Capital Issues
Behavioral science technology helps identify how social capital influences a member’s health decisions and uses this data to tailor support in the following ways:
- Identifying Barriers
Behavioral science algorithms analyze a member’s social capital to identify the adherence barriers a member might face. For example, someone living in an area with low social capital may lack logistical or emotional support, making it harder to follow through on healthcare routines. We should also spot opportunities and harness the power of social capital to overcome barriers.
- Offering Relevant Content
Once we understand the social capital dynamics of a member’s environment, the system offers content and advice tailored to their situation. If the data shows that a member has a strong support network, the system may suggest involving friends or family in their healthcare routine. If the member has low social capital, content might focus on self-management strategies or ways to access community resources.
- Filling in the Gaps
For members with limited social support—those who live alone, are unmarried, or are not active in a community—our platform steps in to offer assistance. When the index indicates low social capital, the technology provides additional support through educational content, reminders, and delivery or transportation services. These features can act as a virtual support system for members who don’t have anyone else to rely on.
By integrating the Social Capital Index into behavioral science-based technology, health plans can better understand members’ unique challenges and provide personalized solutions. Whether members have strong social support or limited networks, this approach ensures they receive the support they need to live healthier lives.