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Boxer Library

OVID Medline

This is an informative guide on the different features of Ovid Medline.

New to OVID

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What is Ovid Medline?

Medline is a database that indexes biomedical articles. OVID is a platform that allows you to perform general and comprehensive searches of that information. You may be familiar with Medline if you have used PubMed.

OVID searches the same database of information as PubMed, but has a more robust set of tools. OVID is the recommended tool for performing evidence synthesis research, such as a systematic review; PubMed is recommended if you need a resource that does not require a subscription.

  • You can access OVID from the Library’s homepage in the "Popular Resources" sidebar.
  • You will need your HelixNet ID in order to access this resource.

Ovid Medline gives you additional advanced features for efficient searching not provided in PubMed, such as connecting directly to MeSH terms and applying limiters before you begin searching. Below you will see the pros of using each tool for searching Medline.

Use OVID Medline if....

  • You have a specific topic and you wish to use advanced search techniques, such as subject headings.
  • You want to apply filters such as publication date and language to your initial search.
  • You want to easily track your search history.

Use PubMed if...

  • You want to use a resource that will be available after you graduate.
  • You are doing a basic search and do not need to use advanced features, like subject headings.