Why Researchers Choose JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association for High-Impact Publications
JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association has long been a beacon for excellence in medical scholarship since its inception in 1883. As one of the world's most influential medical journals, it publishes original research, reviews, and commentaries that shape clinical practice and health policy worldwide. Researchers gravitate toward JAMA for its rigorous peer-review process, broad readership among physicians, policymakers, and scientists, and its commitment to evidence-based medicine. The journal's scope encompasses all aspects of clinical medicine, from basic science discoveries to epidemiological studies and health services research, making it an ideal venue for interdisciplinary work in health and medical services.
With a history rooted in the American Medical Association's mission to advance scientific knowledge, JAMA has evolved into a multimedia platform that includes podcasts, videos, and interactive features alongside traditional articles. Its impact extends beyond academia, influencing guidelines from organizations like the WHO and CDC. For early-career researchers, publishing here opens doors to collaborations and funding opportunities. The journal's emphasis on clarity and accessibility ensures that findings reach practitioners who can apply them directly to patient care.
Key to its appeal is the editorial team's dedication to diversity in authorship and topics, covering global health challenges such as pandemics, inequities in care, and innovative therapies. Whether exploring the latest in oncology, cardiology, or preventive medicine, JAMA provides a platform where high-quality, timely research thrives. Researchers appreciate the journal's transparency in methods and data sharing, fostering trust and reproducibility.
To discover how your work aligns with JAMA's standards, explore medicine academic jobs and connect with peers in the field.
Overview & History
JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association was founded in 1883 by the American Medical Association to disseminate cutting-edge medical knowledge. Initially focused on association proceedings, it quickly expanded to include original articles and editorials. Over the decades, JAMA has chronicled major medical milestones, from antibiotic discoveries to genomic advancements. Today, it remains a weekly publication with a circulation exceeding 150,000, including digital access via the JAMA Network.
The journal's evolution reflects changes in medicine, incorporating open access options and multimedia since the early 2000s. Its editorial independence ensures unbiased reporting, earning it a reputation for integrity amid evolving publication ethics.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Clinical Medicine | Original research on diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes across specialties. |
| Public Health | Studies on epidemiology, health policy, and population-level interventions. |
| Health Services Research | Analyses of healthcare delivery, quality, and access. |
| Basic Biomedical Sciences | Translational research bridging lab findings to clinical applications. |
| Medical Ethics and Policy | Discussions on bioethics, equity, and regulatory issues. |
These disciplines highlight JAMA's broad yet focused approach, welcoming submissions that advance health and medical services.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 120.7 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 108.5 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 142.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 456 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 8% | Publisher data |
These metrics underscore JAMA's dominance in the field, with high citation rates reflecting its influence.
Indexing and Abstracting
JAMA is indexed in major databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and DOAJ for select open access content. This ensures wide discoverability. Abstracts are available through Google Scholar and the AMA's own archives, facilitating global access to its 140+ years of content.
Publication Model and Fees
JAMA operates a hybrid model: subscription-based with optional open access. Standard articles are behind a paywall, but authors can choose gold open access for an article processing charge (APC) of $5,000. No fees for non-OA submissions. The AMA supports waivers for authors from low-income countries via Research4Life. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green for self-archiving.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the JAMA Network's online portal at jamanetwork.com. Guidelines emphasize CONSORT for trials, STROBE for observational studies, and ICMJE authorship criteria. Initial screening takes 1-2 weeks, followed by peer review. Revisions are common, with final decisions averaging 4-6 weeks.
Editorial Board Highlights
Led by Editor-in-Chief Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, MD, PhD (University of California, San Francisco), the board includes experts like Howard Bauchner (former editor) and associate editors from Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Mayo Clinic. Diversity is prioritized, with members representing global perspectives in cardiology, neurology, and primary care.
Why Publish in JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association?
Publishing in JAMA amplifies research impact through its vast audience and media coverage. It enhances CVs for tenure and grants, with alumni often leading major institutions. The journal's rapid dissemination during crises, like COVID-19, demonstrates its real-world value. For health and medical services scholars, it's a gateway to policy influence.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) | 176.1 | Clinical trials, broad medicine | ~5% |
| The Lancet | 202.7 | Global health, policy | ~5% |
| BMJ | 93.3 | Primary care, evidence-based | ~15% |
| Annals of Internal Medicine | 51.5 | Internal medicine reviews | ~10% |
JAMA balances prestige with accessibility, distinguishing it in the competitive landscape.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Ensure novelty and clinical relevance; align with journal themes.
- Follow reporting guidelines strictly to avoid desk rejection.
- Highlight implications for practice in your cover letter.
- Seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues.
- Prepare for multi-round reviews by addressing reviewer comments thoroughly.
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