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An experimental cancer information service using AIM-TWX
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|January 1, 1972
Summary
A health sciences library provided rapid article photocopies on cancer topics to physicians. This service, utilizing AIM-TWX, was cost-effective and appreciated, reducing search time and improving information retrieval.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Health Sciences Librarianship
- Information Retrieval
Background:
- Physicians require timely access to current medical literature.
- Efficient information retrieval services are crucial for evidence-based practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a rapid article photocopying service for cancer information.
- To assess the utility of AIM-TWX in a real-world medical library setting.
Main Methods:
- A joint service by two regional programs provided 24-hour photocopies of cancer articles.
- AIM-TWX was used as a primary reference source.
- Usage, cost, and physician satisfaction were tracked over three months.
Main Results:
- 27 requesters made 56 requests, receiving 185 articles.
- The estimated cost was under $18 per request.
- AIM-TWX reduced search time and retrieved over 70% of needed articles.
Conclusions:
- The rapid information service was needed and appreciated by physicians.
- AIM-TWX proved beneficial for efficient literature searching.
- Further investigation into similar information services is recommended.