STATUS OF PUBLICATIONS IN JOURNAL OF NEPAL MEDICAL ASSOCIATION DURING 1991-2000: AN OVERVIEW - I

• Published in: Journal of Nepal Medical Association Vol. 40; no. 139; pp. 120 - 124
• Main Author: Paudel, B H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Nepal Medical Association 01.07.2003
• ISSN: 0028-2715; 1815-672X
• DOI: 10.31729/jnma.829

This is a "meta-analytical" study of publications in Journal of Nepal MedicalAssociation (JNMA). The study aimed at investigating the quantitative status ofpublications in JNMA during 1991-2000, which could possibly be used as a feedbackfor improvement of journal quality. A total of 469 articles were classified according totheir headings. They were sub-grouped into yearly, two-yearly (1991-1992, 1993-1994etc), three-yearly (e.g., 1991-1993, 1994-1996 etc), and five-yearly (1991-1995, 1996-2000) basis. The proportions of articles within each sub-group across time from 1991to 2000 were compared (e.g., 1991-1992 vs. 1993-1994 etc) using Fisher exact or chi-square test. The JNMA publications during 1998-1999 were also compared with JIMA(Journal of Indian Medical Association) publications. The results showed that theoriginal articles and case reports were significantly less during mid nineties of the20th century. The editorials increased significantly whereas the articles on 'healthcare' and 'clinical pharmacology' were decreased in the 2nd half of the decade. Whenthe publications during 1998-1999 were compared with JIMA, the proportions of reviewand original articles in JNMA were significantly more. But the proportion of reviewsrelative to original articles was significantly less in JNMA as compared to JIMA. TheJNMA was specially featured with articles on medical education, and health policyand planning whereas the JIMA had more articles of interest for general practitioners.In conclusion, the JNMA publications during the period of 1991-2000 were notconsistent. The JNMA may need reconsideration of publication policy and to takemeasures to maintain constancy of its publications.Key Words: meta-analysis, quality publication, quantity of publication.