Peer-review process

All manuscripts submitted to the Scientific Bulletin of Uzhhorod University. Series: Medicine undergo a two-stage peer-review process:

1. Editorial Screening

The editorial secretary conducts an initial screening to ensure that the manuscript complies with the publication’s formatting requirements and policies. Manuscripts that do not meet the requirements will be returned to the authors without peer review. At this stage, the originality of the text and absence of plagiarism are also verified using appropriate software.

2. Double-Blind Peer Review

Each manuscript is reviewed by at least two independent experts in the relevant field. The publication follows a double-blind peer-review model, meaning that both authors and reviewers remain anonymous throughout the process.

Reviewers are required to:

  • maintain confidentiality regarding the manuscript and the review process;
  • disclose any conflicts of interest to the editorial office and decline to review if conflicts exist.

3. Evaluation Criteria

Reviewers assess:

  • the relevance and originality of the topic;
  • methodological soundness and scientific accuracy;
  • clarity and coherence of presentation;
  • relevance of citations and coverage of previous research;
  • contribution to the field.

4. Editorial Decision

Based on reviewers’ recommendations, the editorial board may:

  • accept the manuscript without changes;
  • request revisions (minor or major);
  • reject the manuscript.

In the case of substantial revisions, the manuscript may be re-sent to reviewers. Authors are notified of the review results via email and must address reviewers’ comments and resubmit the revised manuscript within the timeframe specified by the editorial office. All changes to the manuscript, including minor edits, must be approved by the authors.

5. Ethical Standards

The publication adheres to the recommendations of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) regarding ethical publishing and conflict resolution. In cases of suspected research or publication misconduct, the editorial office acts in accordance with COPE guidelines. Authors may appeal editorial decisions in writing, providing clear justifications.

6. Review Timeline

The average time for peer review and editorial decision is 3–5 weeks, depending on the complexity of the manuscript and the responsiveness of the reviewers.