Beyond greater visibility, OA reduces restrictions on reuse. Based on the specific licensing terms, users can link to, read, download, and repurpose your content, fostering collaboration and further innovation. Many funding bodies and institutions now require Open Access publishing to ensure the broad dissemination of the research they support. Complying with these mandates is becoming a standard part of the research lifecycle.
Understanding the different models of Open Access publishing
The world of Open Access isn't one-size-fits-all. Several models exist, offering flexibility to meet the unique needs of different authors, disciplines, and funding situations. Understanding these options helps you choose the right path for your research.
Gold Open Access
With Gold Open Access, the final published version of your article is made immediately and freely available to all readers on the journal's website. The author typically retains the copyright. This model is often funded through an Article Processing Charge (APC), which is a fee paid by the author, their institution, or a funding agency to cover the costs of publication.
Green Open Access
Green Open Access allows authors to self-archive a version of their article in a repository. This is usually the author's accepted manuscript (the version after peer review but before copy editing and formatting). Often, there is an embargo period set by the publisher, meaning the article can only be made freely available after a certain amount of time has passed since its official publication.
Diamond Open Access
Diamond Open Access, sometimes called Platinum Open Access, removes fees for both authors and readers. These journals don't charge APCs. Instead, their operations are supported by sponsoring societies, academic institutions, or other organizations that cover the publication costs, making it a completely free-to-publish and free-to-read model.
Hybrid Open Access
Hybrid journals are traditional subscription-based journals that offer authors an Open Access option. If you choose this route, you can pay a publication fee (an APC) after your article is accepted to make your specific article freely available. Meanwhile, the rest of the journal's content remains behind the subscription paywall. This model provides flexibility for authors who wish to publish in established subscription journals while still meeting OA requirements.
Our commitment at Wolters Kluwer
At Wolters Kluwer, we believe that advancing global healthcare starts with making research open, trusted, and impactful. With over 200 years of publishing expertise within our Lippincott® publisher arm, our journals have set a standard for excellence. For more than 20 years, we have supported Open Access publishing, building one of the largest healthcare-focused OA portfolios worldwide.
We understand that every researcher’s goals and funding requirements are unique. That’s why we offer flexible publishing models — including Gold, Diamond, and Hybrid — to meet your needs. When you choose to publish Open Access with Wolters Kluwer, you’re not just sharing your research — you’re ensuring it reaches its full potential. Your work will be hosted on Ovid®, our advanced research platform, which powers global discovery and access, helping your work get seen, cited, and used where it matters most.
