Communication Networks In The Livestock Sector: How Do Farmers Receive Animal Health And Disease Related Information?

Introduction: Effective communication of disease information to farmers requires understanding how farmers receive information. Our scoping review aimed to identify the main information channels (networks) through which farmers receive information about animal health.

Methods: The scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR checklist. We searched PubMed and Web of Science on September 19, 2023, using specific terms. Eligible publications included peer-reviewed English-language research or review articles from developed countries targeting all livestock species with farming systems resembling Scotland's. Titles and abstracts were screened for relevance. Data
extraction focused on identifying information channels used by farmers for disease management and prioritized understanding the information sources and dissemination methods rather than the impact of information itself.

Results: A total of 224 papers were initially retrieved, and 39 papers published up to 2023 were retained. Key aspects such as information dissemination pathways, sources of information, and perceived effectiveness of communication channels were highlighted. Farm veterinarians were found to be the most common source of animal disease information. Other sources reported were the farming press,
nutritionists, and fellow farmers. Paraprofessionals and technicians played significant roles in dairy cattle health management. Government agencies were less frequently consulted. Combining multiple communication channels and
advisors was recommended for effective information delivery. Personalised communication methods, rather than mass media, were more effective in driving changes in farm practices.

Discussion: This review identified veterinarians as farmers primary source of animal disease information. Farmer communication channels will be further elaborated by consulting stakeholders in Scotland

Conclusion: Veterinarians were the main animal health information source used by farmers for managing disease. Nutritionists, hoof trimmers, farmer press, and associations also played vital roles. Employing diverse communication tools and interdisciplinary approaches, can optimise information dissemination, building farmer trust and enhancing implementation.