The editors-in-chief of JAMA and The New England Journal of Medicine have defended the role of editorial independence in advancing scientific rigor, responding to recent threats to bar government scientists from publishing in established peer-reviewed journals.
In a joint opinion piece published in The Washington Post, Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo of JAMA and Eric J. Rubin of NEJM emphasized the importance of a transparent and independent editorial process that subjects research to critical scrutiny. They argued that scientific progress relies on a system designed to evaluate, challenge, and refine findings based on evidence rather than ideology or authority.
Their commentary comes amid remarks from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who proposed limiting federal scientists’ ability to publish in leading journals in favor of government-controlled publications. The editors warned that such a shift could undermine safeguards that ensure the integrity of the scientific review process.
The editors described peer review as a rigorous, selective, and iterative process. They noted that millions of manuscripts are submitted annually to journals worldwide. Still, only a small percentage meet the methodological standards required for publication. They detailed how editors and reviewers play a key role in refining and, when needed, tempering or revising research conclusions to ensure clarity, precision, and clinical relevance.
They also highlighted the extensive editorial work undertaken to improve how findings are communicated to practitioners and researchers, noting that this level of scrutiny is essential to upholding standards of care.
The op-ed underscored the critical role of editorial independence in maintaining objectivity, particularly in the context of industry-funded research. While acknowledging the limitations of public funding, the editors stressed that medical journals serve as a buffer against potential bias by applying consistent review standards regardless of the funding source.
They argued that the competition among independent journals further reinforces these standards and helps maintain a robust ecosystem of peer-reviewed publications. They cautioned that limiting researchers to government-run outlets could compromise this system and politicize scientific communication.
Dr. Bibbins-Domingo, who assumed leadership of JAMA and its network of 13 journals in 2022, recently oversaw the launch of JAMA+ AI, a new initiative focused on the implications of artificial intelligence in healthcare. The channel curates AI-related research and insights for clinicians and health professionals across the network.
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