Mapping and analyzing the scientific outcomes of medical library and information sciences (1990–2022)

Background. The rapid advancement of medical knowledge and technology was precipitating transformations in healthcare, necessitating novel approaches to the dissemination of information. Medical library and information sciences (MLIS) assumed a pivotal role in facilitating access to information sources and conducting literacy programs. This study endeavored to analyze the scientific outcomes of MLIS from 1990 to 2022 to elucidate the underlying themes and contributions that were shaping the discipline. Methods. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive method with a scientometric approach. Data were gathered from the Web of Science in September 2024. The analysis was conducted using Excel version 2019 software and VOSviewer 1.6 software. In this visualization, the size of the circles represented the weight based on the co-occurrence of subjects, with a maximum length of 30. The data normalization method used for network visualization was Min. strength and association strength. Results. In the field of MLIS, the United States was the leading producer of scientific output, with Iran ranking sixth. Tanya P. Bardin and Daniel Eric Burgard were the most prolific writers. The scientometric map identified five clusters of research activity, focusing on professional tasks, technology, user nature, organizational issues, and citation-related fields. Conclusions. The analysis of MLIS literature from 1990 to 2022 revealed a rapidly expanding and highly specialized field, with the greatest quantity of production occurring in 2008. The key research areas encompassed Information Science, Library Science, and Health Care Sciences Services. Scientometric mapping revealed distinct clusters focusing on professional tasks, technology and Internet use, user-oriented services, organizational issues, and citation-related fields. These findings underscored the pivotal role of MLIS professionals in supporting healthcare. However, challenges persisted in methodological diversity, international collaboration, and research transparency. It was crucial to address these challenges in order to ensure that MLIS continued to wield significant influence in the future of healthcare