KNOWLEDGE RETRIEVAL THROUGH E-RESOURCES BY HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS AND STUDENTS AT THANJAVUR MEDICAL COLLEGE, THANJAVUR, TAMIL NADU: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

This case study investigates knowledge retrieval practices using electronic resources among healthcare professionals and students at Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. In the digital age, accessing accurate and current medical information is essential for both clinical practice and academic pursuits. The study utilized a structured survey to collect data from a sample of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and students, to understand their usage patterns, preferred resources, and encountered challenges. Findings reveal a significant reliance on databases, online journals, and educational websites for information retrieval. PubMed, Up-to-date, and Google Scholar were identified as the most frequently used resources. The survey highlighted that while electronic resources offer extensive and timely information, users face challenges such as information overload, high cost of subscriptions, and the inconsistent quality of available resources. Moreover, the study emphasizes the critical need for enhanced digital literacy training to ensure effective and efficient use of these electronic resources. Participants expressed a desire for institutional support to mitigate financial barriers and to curate a repository of high-quality, peer-reviewed information. The analysis indicates that, despite the challenges, electronic resources play an indispensable role in supporting the educational and clinical needs of healthcare professionals and students at Thanjavur Medical College. This research underscores the transformative impact of digital tools in medical knowledge acquisition and application. It advocates for strategic interventions to enhance access, reduce costs, and improve the quality of electronic resources, ultimately fostering a more informed and competent healthcare workforce.