Frequently asked questions

1. What is Open Medicine?

Open Medicine is a global, open-access platform that provides Living Algorithms, structured treatment pathways designed to help clinicians make decisions at the point of care. It brings together evidence, expert interpretation and practical guidance in a way that's easy to use.

2. What are Living Algorithms?

Living Algorithms are interactive, continuously updated treatment pathways authored by expert physicians. They show you not just what to do, but how to think through decisions including patient selection, dosing, side effects and real-world considerations.

3. Who is Open Medicine for?

Open Medicine is designed for physicians, trainees and other healthcare professionals. It's especially useful for community clinicians and fellows who need fast, practical guidance across a wide range of diseases.

4. How is Open Medicine different from NCCN Guidelines?

NCCN Guidelines provide comprehensive, evidence-based recommendations. Open Medicine builds on this foundation by translating guidance into clear, patient-centered pathways that are easy to navigate and use.

5. How is Open Medicine different from literature search tools?

Literature tools help you find and summarize studies. Open Medicine helps you apply this research by organizing it into actionable treatment decisions, including how to select therapies and manage patients in practice.

6. Is there any relation between OpenEvidence and Open Medicine?

No relation whatsoever.

7. How often are Living Algorithms updated?

Living Algorithms are continuously updated as new evidence emerges. Updates reflect changes in clinical practice, new trial data and evolving expert interpretation, rather than fixed periodic revisions.

8. Do Living Algorithms replace clinical guidelines?

No, Living Algorithms complement guidelines. Guidelines provide the evidence and consensus, while Living Algorithms add interpretation, real-world context and decision support at the point of care.

9. Can I use Open Medicine on my phone?

Open Medicine is mobile-friendly, so you can quickly access treatment pathways and supporting information in the clinic or on the go.

10. Is Open Medicine free to use?

Open Medicine is open access and free for everyone. We make expert medical knowledge easy to access so clinicians can offer the best treatment for their patients.