Toronto, September 19: JMIR Medical Informatics Editor-in-Chief Arriel Benis and JMIR Publications are pleased to announce an updated focus and scope for the journal. The revision reflects rapid technological advancements and the evolving landscape of biomedical research.
While the core identity of JMIR Medical Informatics remains unchanged, these updates address both persistent and novel challenges in the field. The journal is raising the bar for published literature, moving beyond theoretical frameworks and purely technical novelty to prioritize high-quality research that delivers tangible, real-world benefits for health systems, care delivery, and patient outcomes.
Under the refined scope, submitted work will be evaluated against stronger criteria for translational impact. The journal explicitly seeks research that bridges theoretical models with practical, actionable insights.
Key updates to submission evaluation include:
- Stricter Standards for AI Submissions: Submissions focusing on artificial intelligence, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, information retrieval, and image processing, must now demonstrate real-world clinical applicability. Articles relying solely on algorithm performance on static datasets will no longer suffice; research must highlight workflow integration, external validation, or direct utility in clinical settings.
- Emphasis on Systematic Implementation: JMIR Medical Informatics continues to encourage and welcome implementation reports that systematically document how informatics solutions are successfully translated and integrated into routine clinical environments.
“As the speed of technological innovation accelerates, informatics solutions must demonstrate clear value in practice,” said Arriel Benis, JMIR Medical Informatics Editor-in-Chief. “These changes ensure that our published research bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing true utility for clinicians, researchers, and health systems globally.”
Prospective authors, reviewers, and readers are invited to read the full editorial, “Refining Our Focus by Bridging Theory and Practice for Real-World Impact: An Updated Scope for JMIR Medical Informatics,” to learn more about the rationale behind these changes and what they mean for future submissions.