Our A&E departments are extremely busy, only attend in emergency or life-threatening situations. Please ensure you make the right choice for your care.

Home > Professionals > Knowledge and libraries > Online evidence sources > NHS OpenAthens

NHS OpenAthens

Most of our online information resources require an NHS OpenAthens username and password for access. Find out how to get one and how to use it.

For most of our resources you will need an NHS OpenAthens username and password.

How do I get an NHS OpenAthens account?

You can self-register for OpenAthens on their website.

  • Use an NHS PC and your NHS or Brighton & Sussex Medical School email address for quicker processing of your registration
  • It is possible to register from a non-NHS computer and to use a personal or university email address, but additional verification is needed, so it may take longer to get your account
  • After activating your account you can use our information resources from work or home

What if I have forgotten my password?

  1. Go to: https://openathens.nice.org.uk/ForgotPassword/Reset
  2. Enter your email address and confirm
  3. An email will be sent to the email address you registered with
  4. Follow instructions in the email

What if I have moved from another Trust?

Whenever you move organisation, as long as you stay within the NHS, you can move your account to your new organisation.

To change your organisation:

  1. Go to OpenAthens and log in with your OpenAthens details.
  2. Choose “Change organisation” from the left-hand menu.
  3. Enter a new email if necessary or continue with your existing one.
  4. Start typing in your organisation and select from the drop-down list.
  5. Continue to the next page and change any personal details.
  6. Finally continue to the Terms and Conditions and click on “submit”.

How do I renew my account?

If you receive an email asking if you wish to renew your OpenAthens account:

  • Click on the link in the email
  • Log in and complete the online form as if registering again. Your renewal request may take up to 3 working days to be verified by an administrator (e.g. if your details do not match those on the system, or if you entered a non-NHS email address)

When I login with OpenAthens I am asked for my institution

If you are unable to find the name of your Trust on the list search for ‘NHS in England’ instead. If you are experiencing any issues with your OpenAthens account, contact us.

Page last reviewed: