PMCID-indexed articles in the field of medical education are cited significantly more frequently and have higher field‑normalised impact values than non‑OA publications. Despite financial hurdles and methodological limitations including potential selection bias, the moderate OACA supports strategically expanding OA publication funds to maximise the reach and impact of medical education research. Prospective studies should consider different OA types, altmetrics, and potential confounders to pinpoint the impacts of OA.
Hendrik Friederichs (Mon,) studied this question.