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BioSYNTHESIS: access to a knowledge network of health sciences databases
N C Broering1, J S Hylton, R Guttmann
1Georgetown University Medical Center Library, Washington, DC 20007-2197.
Journal of Medical Systems
|April 1, 1991
Summary
The BioSYNTHESIS system offers seamless access to diverse biomedical databases, enhancing medical decision support for physicians and students through an integrated knowledge network.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Informatics
- Health Sciences Information Systems
Background:
- Georgetown University Medical Center's Integrated Advanced Information Management Systems (IAIMS) project aims to create a comprehensive biomedical information environment.
- Physicians and students require efficient access to multiple, diverse health sciences databases for medical decision support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the BioSYNTHESIS system, an information navigator providing unified access to a Knowledge Network of biomedical databases.
- To detail the system's evolution, components, achievements, and future plans.
Main Methods:
- Development of BioSYNTHESIS as a single point of entry to over a dozen in-house and external databases.
- Integration of diverse computer systems (DEC VAXs, SUN 490, AT&T 3B2s, Macintoshes, IBM PC/PS2s) using Ethernet and TCP/IP protocols.
- Establishment of network links to campus libraries and external institutions.
Main Results:
- BioSYNTHESIS provides transparent access to a Knowledge Network of bibliographic, informational, diagnostic, and research databases.
- The system has evolved into a three-phase program, incorporating new knowledge resources and technological advancements.
- The system supports medical decision-making for campus physicians and students.
Conclusions:
- BioSYNTHESIS serves as a robust information navigator, centralizing access to critical biomedical resources.
- The system's flexible architecture and continuous evolution support the growing needs of the medical community.