As we celebrate National Science Week, we want to shine a spotlight on journal publications, which uphold clinical guidelines and healthcare practices across the globe.
The roots of scientific journals trace back to 1665 when the first journal titled ‘Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society’ was published in London, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of research dissemination. With over 30,000 healthcare journals currently in existence globally, even the most specific areas of healthcare have dedicated platforms for sharing research outcomes. This means that there are plenty of options for authors who wish to publish a manuscript and increases the likelihood that the research will reach its target audience.
However, producing a comprehensive and impactful journal manuscript is not an easy task. It involves a combination of expertise, dedication, and attention to detail to ensure the content meets the rigorous standards set by editors.
To assist those looking to make a submission, London Agency has outlined the steps that healthcare companies should take to effectively publish their compelling clinical research in a scientific journal.
Creating a journal manuscript is a collaborative endeavour that involves researchers with diverse expertise. Healthcare companies should start by selecting qualified authors for the manuscript. For manuscripts aimed at communicating the results of a clinical trial or study, the investigators themselves can serve as the authors. However, for projects like systematic reviews, assembling a team of authors with complementary skills ensures a holistic approach to addressing the research question.
Establishing a clear structure for the manuscript is a critical step. When content is presented in a logical manner, it makes it easier for readers to follow the progression of the research. To facilitate this, an initial meeting with the selected authors should be arranged to outline and agree on the manuscript’s structure.
Choosing the appropriate article type is a critical decision.
Selecting the right article type aligns the research with the journal’s scope and readership. Equally important is picking the right journal: one that specialises in the research area and has a reputation for publishing high-quality work.
The heart of the journal publication lies in the content itself. Authors must present their research clearly and concisely, describing the methods, showcasing results, and providing context and interpretation. Incorporating figures and tables is vital as they visualise and systematise data and trends, enhancing the impact of the manuscript.
Peer review is the cornerstone of scientific validity. Upon submission to the journal, the manuscript undergoes evaluation by experts in the field who provide constructive feedback. Authors should be prepared to address reviewers’ comments and suggestions, which may entail refining the research design, strengthening arguments, or clarifying points. The iterative process of multiple review rounds ensures the manuscript’s quality and rigour.
Each journal has specific formatting requirements, ranging from font style and size to citation formats. Formatting also involves ensuring the accurate placement of figures, tables, and captions. Adhering to these guidelines ensures consistency across the journal’s content and aids readability.
Effective communication with journal editors is crucial throughout the submission and review process. Authors might need to address inquiries from editors or provide additional information to facilitate the review process. Open and prompt communication helps to navigate any potential hurdles, ensuring a smoother journey from submission to publication.
After the steps outlined above have been completed, the manuscript is ready for submission to the selected journal. This marks the beginning of the formal review process. During this stage, the journal’s editorial team assesses the manuscript’s suitability for publication and determines whether it aligns with the journal’s scope and quality standards.
National Science Week presents an excellent opportunity to reflect on the critical contributions of journals to the healthcare landscape. These platforms serve as vehicles for sharing ground-breaking research, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, and propelling the discipline forward.
As we celebrate the strides made in healthcare research, let us acknowledge the dedicated researchers, authors, and editors. Their commitment to rigorous research and its dissemination is what makes progress in the healthcare field possible.
London Agency provides journal publication development support to healthcare companies. To find out more, click here.
