Submitting to the African Journal of Emergency Medicine: A Guide
The African Journal of Emergency Medicine (AfJEM) plays a vital role in advancing emergency medical care across the continent. Publishing high-quality research and clinical observations, the AfJEM provides a platform for healthcare professionals to share knowledge and improve patient outcomes. If you are considering submitting your work to this prestigious journal, this guide offers valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your submission’s chances of success.
Understanding the AfJEM’s Scope and Audience
Before submitting your manuscript, it’s crucial to understand the journal’s scope and target audience. The AfJEM focuses on original research, reviews, case reports, and letters to the editor related to emergency medicine in the African context. This includes, but is not limited to, pre-hospital care, emergency department management, trauma, critical care, infectious diseases, and public health emergencies. The journal’s primary audience comprises emergency physicians, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare professionals involved in emergency care across Africa.
Types of Articles Accepted by AfJEM
The AfJEM accepts various article types, each with specific guidelines:
- Original Research: Reports on original research findings relevant to emergency medicine in Africa.
- Reviews: Comprehensive overviews of specific topics within emergency medicine, summarizing existing literature and providing critical insights.
- Case Reports: Detailed descriptions of unique or clinically significant cases encountered in African emergency settings.
- Letters to the Editor: Short communications commenting on previously published articles or raising important issues within the field.
Preparing Your Manuscript
A well-structured and meticulously prepared manuscript is crucial for a successful submission. The AfJEM follows the Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals (URM). Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Title Page: Include the manuscript’s title, authors’ full names and affiliations, corresponding author’s contact information, and any funding sources.
- Abstract: Provide a concise summary of your research, including background, methods, results, and conclusions.
- Keywords: Include 3-5 relevant keywords to help readers find your article.
- Introduction: Provide context for your research, state the research question or objective, and briefly review relevant literature.
- Methods: Describe your study design, participants, data collection procedures, and statistical analysis methods.
- Results: Present your findings in a clear and concise manner, using tables and figures as appropriate.
- Discussion: Interpret your results, discuss their implications, and relate them to existing literature. Address any limitations of your study.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main findings and their significance.
- Acknowledgments: Acknowledge any individuals or organizations that contributed to your work but are not listed as authors.
- References: Cite all sources using the journal’s preferred referencing style.
Ethical Considerations
The AfJEM adheres to strict ethical guidelines. Ensure your research has received ethical approval, and obtain informed consent from all participants. If your study involves human subjects, data should be anonymized to protect patient privacy.
Doctor reviewing medical journal
Submission Process
The AfJEM utilizes an online submission system. Create an account on the journal’s website and follow the instructions to upload your manuscript and supporting documents. You will be asked to provide a cover letter summarizing your research and its significance, and highlighting its relevance to the AfJEM’s scope.
Peer Review Process
Upon submission, your manuscript will undergo a rigorous peer-review process. Experts in your field will evaluate your work’s originality, scientific rigor, clarity, and relevance to the journal’s scope. You will receive feedback from reviewers and the editor, and you may be asked to revise and resubmit your manuscript.
Conclusion
Submitting your work to the African Journal of Emergency Medicine is a significant step towards contributing to the advancement of emergency medical care in Africa. By carefully following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of a successful submission and contribute to the dissemination of valuable knowledge within the medical community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average time for peer review at AfJEM?
The review process typically takes 8-12 weeks.
Does AfJEM charge publication fees?
Currently, AfJEM does not charge any article processing charges (APCs).
Can I submit a manuscript that has been presented at a conference?
Yes, AfJEM accepts manuscripts that have been presented at conferences. However, the work should not have been published elsewhere.
Does AfJEM provide language editing services?
While AfJEM encourages authors to submit well-written manuscripts, it does not provide formal language editing services.
Can I suggest reviewers for my manuscript?
Yes, you can suggest potential reviewers during the submission process. However, the final selection of reviewers rests with the editor.
For further assistance or inquiries, please contact the AfJEM editorial office at +255768904061, email [email protected] or visit our office located at Mbarali DC Mawindi, Kangaga, Tanzania. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you.
