Transition from UpToDate to DynaMed
As part of the Department's ongoing efforts to manage expenditure within a constrained budget, a decision has been made not to renew the subscription to UpToDate when the current agreement expires on 31 December 2026.
We recognise that UpToDate is a highly valued resource used extensively by clinicians across the Department, and that this change may require adjustments to established clinical practices.
DynaMed will continue to be available through EPOCH, providing access to an extensive range of evidence-based clinical information to support diagnosis, treatment and patient management.
To assist with the transition, Library Services will be providing a program of short training sessions, practical demonstrations, online guidance and individual assistance throughout December and into the new year.
We encourage all clinicians who currently use UpToDate to familiarise themselves with DynaMed before the end of December.
Further information, including training opportunities and instructions for accessing DynaMed, will be available through the EPOCH portal. Library Services is committed to supporting clinicians in accessing reliable, current evidence to inform patient care. We welcome feedback about specific clinical information needs and will work with clinical teams to identify appropriate resources wherever possible.
FAQs
Why is UpToDate being discontinued?
The Department has reviewed its expenditure on clinical information resources in response to significant budget constraints. The decision not to renew UpToDate was made as part of that process.
Will we still have a clinical decision-support resource?
Yes. DynaMed will continue to be available through the EPOCH portal.
Is DynaMed the same as UpToDate?
No. Both provide evidence-based clinical information, but they differ in presentation, content coverage, editorial approaches and some functionality. DynaMed meets most common clinical information needs, although individual workflows may require adjustment. Research has shown Dynamed to be comparable in functionality and accuracy to UpToDate (Baxter 2022; Bradley-Ridout 2021).
Will I be able to use DynaMed on my phone?
DynaMed offers mobile access. Library Services will provide instructions appropriate to the Department's subscription and authentication arrangements.
What if I cannot find the information I need?
Contact Library Services. Staff can assist with searching DynaMed and identifying other relevant information resources. Specific content gaps can also be reported for review.
Can I continue using UpToDate through an individual subscription?
Clinicians may wish to investigate individual subscription options. Any Department-funded purchase would be subject to the relevant approval and procurement arrangements.
Will my UpToDate account and saved information transfer to DynaMed?
Clinicians should not assume that accounts, bookmarks, saved topics or other personalised information will continue to be available . They should review anything they need to retain before the subscription ends, subject to the supplier's terms and copyright restrictions.
Will my existing UpToDate mobile app continue working?
Subscription-based access may cease when the Department's entitlement expires, although the precise behaviour depends on the account and licensing arrangements. Users should not rely on continued institutional access after 31 December.
What about continuing professional development credits or certificates?
Clinicians who use UpToDate for CPD should check their existing records and obtain any available documentation before access ends. DynaMed's applicable CPD functionality and recognition should be confirmed for the relevant professional group.
For more information contact Library Services [email protected]