Literature search
We can access and search a wide range of information resources on your behalf, including biomedical and scientific databases.
Our highly trained, professional searchers are very experienced at getting the best possible results from online databases and other sources in any medical or healthcare subject.
They can discuss:
- Constructing an effective search strategy to meet your specific information needs
- The most appropriate database(s) to use for your particular search
We offer three types of literature search:
Online Database Search
A comprehensive online search from a range of biomedical and scientific databases.
Two levels of service are available depending on how quickly you require the information:
- Standard - within a maximum of 10 working days
- Premium - guaranteed within 5 working days
A bibliography, with abstracts where available, is supplied in print or by e-mail. Our Document Delivery team can then supply full copies of chosen references.
| Available databases for single or combined searches include: Medline, Embase, Allied & Complementary Medicine (AMED), DH-Data | |||
| Examples of other databases available - prices are charged at cost. Please enquire for further details 5 BIOSIS Previews (Biomedical/Life Sciences), British Nursing Index, PsycINFO (Psychology), SciSearch (Science & Technology), Toxfile (Toxicology), Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS) |
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| Single Database One-Off Set-Up Fee - inclusive of first 40 references 1 4 | Fellows/Members | Temporary members | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Search Fee (max. 10 working days) | £35.00 | £87.50 | |
| Premium Search Fee (guaranteed 5 working days) | £45.00 | £112.50 | |
| Extra References (per reference) | £0.35 | £0.85 | |
| Combined Search of two databases - inclusive of first 40 references 1 2 3 4 | Fellows/Members | Temporary members | |
| Basic Search Fee (max. 10 working days) | £45.00 | £112.50 | |
| Premium Search Fee (guaranteed 5 working days) | £60.00 | £147.50 | |
| Extra References (per reference) | £0.35 | £0.85 | |
- Acceptance of premium rate searches subject to workload and staff availability.
- Combined database searches will have duplicate references removed.
- Extra databases will be charged at £10.00 per database for Fellows/Members and £25.oo per database for Temporary members.
- RSM student members are entitled to a 25% discount on the basic search fee for database searches.
- There is a minimum charge for this service of £35.00 for Fellows/Members and £87.50 for Temporary members.
Manual Search
Any request which cannot be answered by a traditional database search can be carried out as a manual search. We search both the Society's rich collection and external resources.
This includes:
- A total collection of over half a million volumes, including items dating from the 15th century onwards
- Portraits of medical figures
- Unique collections, including the Diamond Collection of psychiatric photographs.
- Bibliographies going back to the 19th Century, including Index Medicus
Search results will be despatched as a bibliography by post, collect, fax or e-mail. Our turnaround time is within a maximum of 10 working days from receipt of the request, but in some circumstances, a shorter timescale can be negotiated. This may incur an extra charge.
| Manual and Internet Searches | Fellows/Members | Temporary members |
|---|---|---|
| Per Half Day (4 hrs) | £35.00 | £87.50 |
| Each Additional Hour | £15.00 | £37.50 |
Reference Checking
If you are submitting a manuscript for publication, our Reference Checking service can help to verify your references or complete any missing details (e.g. page numbers).
Turnaround time is subject to workload and the length of the reference list.
| Reference Checking Service | Fellows/Members | Temporary members |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 25 References | £20.00 | £50.00 |
| Extra References (per reference) |
£0.50 | £1.25 |
Payment for Services
Fellows, Members and Temporary members will need to arrange payment at the time of making a request. The turnaround time starts from the time we receive payment details.
E-mailing results of searches is free but posting and faxing will incur charges:
| Sending Search Results | Fellows/Members | Temporary members |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | |
| Per 15 Pages by Fax | £3.00 | £3.00 |
| Results Over 50 Pages by Post | £3.00 | £3.00 |
