Editor's Perspective: The End of Journals; Krumholz, H. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes.

Article citation:
Editor’s Perspective: The End of Journals; Harlan M. Krumholz
Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2015;CIRCOUTCOMES.115.002415 published online before print November 10 2015,  doi:10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.115.002415 

Abstract:

"For hundreds of years, medical journals have served as arbiters of the quality of medical research. But the traditional peer-reviewed publication model is fraying. The hierarchical gateway to publication, historically in the hands of experts, is at odds with the ubiquitous democratization of data and information in the 21st century. The impending revolution in the approach to evaluate and disseminate scientific findings is not an indictment of the talent, intentions, or products of editors and reviewers, but rather a response to a model that simply may have run its course given societal and technological change. The Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes team has had the privilege to found and lead this publication. My thoughts about the state of publication derive from my experiences as an editor, an investigator, an avid reader of the medical literature, and a seeker of ways to improve health care. My observations are as much or more about my own journal as they are about others. As our group approaches the end of our terms, it seemed to be a good time to reflect on the state of medical journals. Journals are facing fundamental challenges that can only be overcome through relentless innovation and a willingness to leave the security of an outdated model."

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