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Tips for using your NHS OpenAthens username

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 Get the right information at the right time; get an OpenAthens username.

What is it?

NHS staff can access many different types of online resources with one username and password – an Athens or OpenAthens username. Athens / OpenAthens is an authentication system that allows you access to multiple online resources.

icons for different resources types - computer, books, journals, databases

Register…

You can register for an Athens/OpenAthens username by completing the online form.

Make sure you include your NHS organisation and NHS-based email address to ensure your application is processed automatically.

Maintain Your Account

Keep your account up-to-date:

  • Respond quickly to the emails from Athens / eduserv
  • Reset your own password, if necessary
  • Transfer your account to your new workplace
  • Contact your OpenAthens administrator if you experience any problems

Resources for NHS Users

Online resources such as databases, ebooks and ejournals are provided by subscriptions by:

  • NHS national Core Content – collection available to all NHS staff
  • Region / area consortia – we work with local organisations to purchase resources across our local area
  • Health Library resources – we purchase specific resources for the NHS organisations that we support

Access Resources

You’ll find all the resources available to you via our NHS Resources web page

eBooks

Access ebook collections available on Library Search or as special collections.

Clinical Key  ::  Kortex  ::  Medical Education  ::  Oxford Medicine Online

Access to ebook collections may vary depending on the organisation you work for.

eJournals

Access ejournals via the online NHS A-Z list. Log in to browse or search for journal titles for your NHS organisation.

Databases

Search online for articles and information using our specialist online resources and databases, including:

  • BMJ Best Practice
  • Clinical Key
  • HDAS – which includes Amed, Cinahl, Embase, Emcare, Medline, PsychInfo and more

Healthcare Resources Online

Check our website for more specialist resources that are available via the Internet.

More Help

For more help using Athens / OpenAthens go to our OpenAthens page

Or contact your OpenAthens Administrator.

Training and support is available to help you to find information, use our resources and develop your information skills. You can: Attend a training course : Check an online guide : Complete an online etutorial : Browse our Information Skills for Health blog


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