Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences – History Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences for High-Impact Publications

The Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences stands as a cornerstone in the field of historical scholarship, particularly for those delving into the evolution of medical practices, sciences, and related disciplines. Established in 1946 by Oxford University Press, this quarterly publication has earned its reputation through rigorous peer review and a commitment to advancing knowledge in the history of medicine. Researchers are drawn to it for its interdisciplinary approach, bridging history with biology, public health, and ethics. With an impact factor of 0.3 as reported in the 2022 Journal Citation Reports, it offers a platform where scholarly articles on topics from ancient healing traditions to modern biomedical developments find a discerning audience. The journal's scope encompasses not just Western medical history but global perspectives, including contributions on allied sciences like nursing and pharmacology. Its hybrid open access model allows authors to reach wider readerships while maintaining the prestige of traditional publishing. For historians and medical scholars, publishing here signifies engagement with a community that values depth and archival rigor. The editorial process emphasizes originality, ensuring that accepted manuscripts contribute meaningfully to ongoing debates. As the field of medical history intersects with contemporary issues like pandemics and health policy, this journal provides timely outlets for reflective analysis. Researchers benefit from its established indexing in major databases, enhancing visibility and citation potential. Whether exploring the socio-cultural impacts of diseases or the technological advancements in surgery, contributors find a venue that amplifies their work's influence. To explore academic opportunities in history, consider browsing history faculty positions.

Overview & History

The Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences was founded in 1946 amid post-World War II interest in scientific and medical advancements. Published by Oxford University Press in the United Kingdom, it has evolved from a focus on American medical history to a global perspective. Over seven decades, it has published seminal works that trace the intersections of medicine with society, culture, and science. Key milestones include special issues on topics like the history of vaccines and mental health institutions. Today, it remains a vital resource for scholars, with four issues per year featuring original articles, book reviews, and essay reviews. Its enduring legacy lies in fostering dialogue between historians and practitioners, making it indispensable for understanding how past medical knowledge shapes current practices. The journal's commitment to high standards has solidified its place in academic libraries worldwide.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal covers a broad spectrum within the history of medicine and allied sciences, emphasizing historical analysis over clinical application. Primary focus areas include the development of medical theories, institutions, and technologies across eras and regions.

This interdisciplinary scope attracts contributions from historians, scientists, and ethicists, ensuring diverse viewpoints.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight the journal's steady influence in niche historical research, with citations reflecting its archival value.

Indexing and Abstracting

The Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring discoverability. It appears in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index), and Historical Abstracts. Additional coverage includes JSTOR for archival access and Google Scholar for broad visibility. This indexing supports researchers in tracking citations and accessing related works. For those navigating academic careers, such indexing enhances publication profiles when applying for tenure-track positions.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, it offers subscription-based access with an open access option via Oxford Open. Authors can choose gold open access, with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of £3,120 (approximately $4,000 USD) for immediate OA. No fees for traditional subscription publication. Waiver policies apply for authors from low-income countries. This model balances accessibility with sustainability, allowing global dissemination without compromising quality. Researchers should review policies on the official journal homepage.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through the ScholarOne platform. Manuscripts should be original, up to 10,000 words, with Chicago-style citations. Peer review takes 3-6 months, involving two to three experts. Guidelines emphasize clear prose, robust evidence, and relevance to historical scholarship. Before submitting, authors are encouraged to consult recent issues for style. Successful submissions often feature novel archival findings or interdisciplinary insights. For tips on academic publishing, visit publishing tips.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises leading scholars in medical history. Editor-in-Chief is Christopher Crenner (University of Kansas), with associates from Harvard, Oxford, and Johns Hopkins. Their expertise spans bioethics, epidemiology history, and global health narratives. Board members ensure diverse geographical representation, including experts from Europe and Asia. This team upholds the journal's rigorous standards, guiding it toward innovative topics like digital humanities in medical archives.

Why Publish in Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences?

Publishing here offers prestige within history circles, with opportunities for citation in interdisciplinary fields. Its Oxford affiliation lends credibility, aiding career advancement. Authors gain from detailed feedback and exposure to a targeted audience of historians and policymakers. Compared to broader journals, it provides specialized focus, increasing relevance. For career-minded researchers, inclusion bolsters CVs for roles like research positions. The journal's longevity ensures long-term impact.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison shows JHMAS's niche strength in allied sciences, with competitive metrics for specialized submissions.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on primary sources and contextual analysis. Avoid anachronistic interpretations; instead, highlight historical contingencies. Engage with recent literature to position your contribution. Proofread meticulously and follow formatting guidelines. Networking at conferences can provide insights from past authors. Track submission status via the portal. For broader academic support, check the Rate My Professor for mentor advice or the academic calendar for deadlines. Persistence pays off in this selective venue.