[Revista Médica de Chile in the year 2009]

Area of Science:

• Medical Journal Publishing
• Scientific Communication
• Editorial Processes

Context:

• The Revista Médica de Chile observed a significant rise in manuscript submissions during the first semester of 2009.
• Approximately 30% of submitted manuscripts were rejected, while the majority underwent revisions based on peer and editorial feedback.
• International submissions constituted 10% of published articles in 2008, predominantly in English.

Purpose:

• To report on the operational status and strategic developments of the Revista Médica de Chile in 2009.
• To highlight improvements in journal metrics and editorial board composition.
• To identify and address key challenges, including rising publication costs and the need for a clinical trials registry.

Summary:

• The journal is managing an increased submission volume, with a substantial portion requiring author revisions.
• Publication timelines average a six-month lag between acceptance and printing.
• Editorial enhancements included committee renewals, a new Laboratory Medicine section, and design modifications.

Impact:

• The journal's Impact Factor and other ISI Web of Knowledge metrics showed positive trends in 2008.
• Addressing financial sustainability through reduced pharmaceutical advertising is a key concern.
• Establishing a mandatory national clinical trials registry is proposed to enhance research integrity.