Full-text medical literature retrieval by computer. A pilot test
M. F. Collen and C. D. Flagle
A pilot test of a full-text, medical literature retrieval service
demonstrated its capabilities for on-line search and retrieval of
references, abstracts, and/or full-text journal articles. During a
three-month test period, more than 500 health care professionals conducted
9,377 searches using computer terminals located in seven different health
care sites. Searches were initiated for purposes of patient care, medical
education, research, or for browsing. The majority of responders to a
questionnaire given during the test period said they would continue to use
the service during the pilot test, and only about 1% reported the search
process difficult to use or not "user-friendly." It is predictable that
with a comprehensive data base, full-text medical literature retrieval can
be very useful for medical practice, medical education, and research.
