Peer Review Process
Peer review is a fundamental component of scholarly publishing that ensures the quality, credibility, and integrity of published research. The EPH – International Journal of Medical and Health Science (IJMHS) follows a structured and rigorous double-blind peer review system designed to evaluate manuscripts in a fair, transparent, and timely manner while maintaining high academic and ethical standards.
Initial Evaluation
Upon submission, each manuscript is assessed by the Editor-in-Chief or the editorial office to determine its suitability for the journal. This initial screening evaluates the manuscript’s relevance, originality, scientific contribution, clarity, and adherence to submission guidelines.
Manuscripts that fall outside the journal’s scope, lack originality, demonstrate methodological weaknesses, contain significant language issues, or show high similarity may be rejected at this stage without external review. Authors are typically notified within 10–15 days.
Screening and Manuscript Preparation
Manuscripts that pass the initial evaluation are checked for completeness and compliance with formatting and submission requirements. Authors must ensure that all required sections are included and follow the prescribed structure and style.
If any issues are identified, the manuscript is returned for correction. Only compliant submissions proceed to peer review.
Type of Peer Review
The journal adopts a double-blind peer review model to ensure impartial and unbiased evaluation. In this system, the identities of both authors and reviewers remain confidential throughout the review process.
Authors must submit a separate title page and a blinded manuscript to maintain anonymity and ensure objective assessment.
Review Process
Suitable manuscripts are assigned to at least two independent reviewers with relevant expertise. Reviewers are selected based on academic qualifications and research experience.
They provide detailed, constructive, and evidence-based feedback. The journal aims to complete the review process within 4–6 weeks. Additional reviewers may be invited if required.
Revision and Resubmission
Authors are required to revise manuscripts based on reviewer comments and submit a detailed response. Multiple rounds of revision may be necessary to meet publication standards.
Editorial Decision
The final decision is made by the Editor-in-Chief based on reviewer reports and editorial evaluation. Possible outcomes include:
- Acceptance
- Minor Revisions
- Major Revisions
- Rejection
Final Acceptance and Publication
Accepted manuscripts undergo copyediting and formatting. Authors may be required to submit copyright and conflict of interest declarations.
Articles may be published online as “Articles in Press” before final issue release. Final proofs are shared for author approval prior to publication.
Ethical Standards and Responsibilities
The journal is committed to maintaining the highest standards of publication ethics. Authors, reviewers, and editors are expected to follow ethical principles, including:
- Maintaining confidentiality of submitted manuscripts
- Disclosing any conflicts of interest
- Ensuring objective and unbiased evaluation
- Avoiding the use of unpublished material for personal advantage
These practices align with internationally recognized ethical guidelines and support the integrity of scholarly publishing.
