An evaluation of EMBASE within the NHS: findings of the Database Access Project working partnership to extend the knowledge base of healthcare.

An earlier article in the Innovations on the Internet Series introduced the Database Access Project (DAPs) at Southmead Health Services NHS Trust, which piloted the introduction and use of EMBASE via the Internet and NHSnet. This follow-up article assesses the results of the Project, and reports on its findings. In particular, it considers the usefulness of EMBASE in terms of coverage and content for different groups of NHS users and aspects of take-up in terms of access arrangements and patterns of usage. It also considers the likely impact on the library and information service in terms of providing training and user support and meeting related demands, for example the acquisition of full-text articles as a result of increased levels of searching. The value of retaining access to EMBASE was recognized by the majority of those who participated in the Project, despite its acknowledged overlap with other databases. The coverage of the database was identified as being relevant by a majority of users; both its expanded European coverage and its coverage of drug-related and mental health literature were identified as important aspects. The project identified a clear preference for remote access to the database, although there was still a need to visit the library for retrieval of full text. Lack of time both for training and for actual database use, and lack of confidence in applying search skills and in appraising research were identified as key challenges to database searching. The authors highlight the special role of information professionals in providing training and support for NHS professionals in the acquisition of search skills and critical appraisal skills in order to encourage effective database use.