This page is designed to capture high-intent comparison searches without turning into a clinical manual. It is a ‘tool choice’ framework: pick the right source first, reduce time, and improve consistency.
The selection matrix (use this before you open a tab)
1
Start with NICE CKS when your question is UK primary-care pathway shaped
If you need UK-specific, primary care pragmatic structure, and you expect NICE-linked wording, start here (especially for common presentations and ‘what is best practice in UK primary care’ framing).
2
Start with BMJ Best Practice when you want consultation-structured navigation
If you want a stepwise consultation-style structure and a broad evidence synthesis that is easy to skim quickly, BMJ often wins on usability and workflow alignment.
3
Start with UpToDate when you want depth and breadth across complex contexts
If you need deeper background, broader international framing, and extensive topic depth (often beyond a quick pathway), UpToDate is frequently the ‘depth’ option.
4
Switch sources when you hit the ‘uncertainty wall’
If your first tool doesn’t answer your specific question in 60–120 seconds, switch. Don’t fight the UX.
5
Treat all outputs as decision support, not authority
Use professional judgement and local governance. These tools support, they don’t replace clinician accountability.
6
Optimise for repeatability
Use the same tool for the same class of questions (eg, CKS for UK pathway checks). Consistency reduces cognitive load and variance across clinicians.
7
Avoid ‘tab hoarding’
Your enemy is context switching. Decide the tool first, then read with purpose.
8
Document your source lightly (if needed)
If you want an audit trail, keep it minimal: ‘Checked X guidance/tool for Y framing’—no patient identifiers.
9
Build a personal ‘first-stop’ list
Define your first stop for 3 categories: UK pathways, rapid consultation structure, deep dives. Then stick to it.
Where iatroX fits (objective use-case)
If you want a structured, indexed hub for clinicians that is optimised for modern search behaviour, use iatroX as a navigation layer: fast discovery, internal linking, and consistent formatting—then verify against your preferred official sources when needed.
SourceExplore iatroX Academy (structured hubs across Toolkits / Study / IMG)
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