BMC Medical Ethics
Scope & Guideline
Illuminating ethical pathways in medical practice.
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Healthcare Ethics and Patient Rights:
The journal emphasizes the ethical principles that govern patient rights, informed consent, and shared decision-making, exploring how these principles are applied in clinical practice. - Ethics in Medical Research:
BMC Medical Ethics covers ethical issues related to biomedical research, including consent processes, the role of ethics review boards, and the implications of emerging technologies in research. - Cultural and Contextual Ethics:
The journal examines how cultural, social, and contextual factors influence ethical decision-making in healthcare, particularly in diverse populations and global health settings. - Emerging Ethical Issues in Technology:
BMC Medical Ethics addresses the ethical implications of new technologies in healthcare, including artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and digital health, focusing on their impact on patient care and privacy. - End-of-Life Care and Decision-Making:
The journal explores ethical challenges surrounding end-of-life decisions, including euthanasia, palliative care, and advance directives, reflecting on the moral complexities involved. - Interdisciplinary Approaches to Bioethics:
The journal encourages interdisciplinary research that integrates perspectives from philosophy, law, sociology, and medicine to address multifaceted ethical dilemmas in healthcare.
Trending and Emerging
- Artificial Intelligence and Ethics:
There is a growing focus on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in healthcare, including its impact on decision-making, patient privacy, and the role of AI in clinical practice. - Mental Health and Ethical Considerations:
Recent publications have increasingly addressed the ethical dimensions of mental health care, particularly in relation to decision-making capacity and the involvement of patients in their care. - Global Health Ethics:
Emerging themes in global health ethics are gaining traction, particularly concerning equitable access to healthcare resources and the ethical implications of research in low- and middle-income countries. - Digital Health and Privacy Issues:
With the rise of telemedicine and digital health technologies, there is a notable increase in discussions regarding the ethical challenges of data privacy, consent, and the implications of remote care. - Crisis Ethics and Pandemic Responses:
The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed a surge in research exploring ethical dilemmas arising from crisis situations, such as resource allocation, vaccination ethics, and the responsibilities of healthcare professionals.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Medical Ethics:
There has been a noticeable decrease in publications focused solely on classical medical ethics frameworks, such as the four principles (autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice), as discussions increasingly incorporate broader and more complex ethical considerations. - Generalized Discussions of Consent:
The journal has seen fewer articles that address informed consent in a general sense, with a shift towards more specific contexts, such as digital consent or consent in vulnerable populations, indicating a move towards more nuanced discussions. - Ethical Issues in Specific Medical Procedures:
Topics focused on ethical dilemmas related to specific medical procedures, such as surgical ethics or specific treatment protocols, appear to be declining, possibly as more generalized ethical frameworks become the focus. - Philosophical Debates in Bioethics:
Discussions centered around philosophical debates without direct application to practical healthcare scenarios are less frequent, as the journal increasingly emphasizes empirical research and practical implications. - Historical Perspectives on Medical Ethics:
The historical analysis of medical ethics has waned, with fewer articles reflecting on past ethical dilemmas, suggesting a current focus on contemporary issues and future challenges.
Similar Journals
Linacre Quarterly
Transforming Perspectives on Health Policy ChallengesLinacre Quarterly, published by SAGE Publications Inc, is a distinguished journal that serves as an interdisciplinary platform in the fields of Health Policy and Philosophy. With an ISSN of 0024-3639 and an E-ISSN of 2050-8549, this journal has been pivotal in providing insights into the intricate dynamics of health policy through a philosophical lens since its inception in 1945. Notably, it holds a respectable 2023 Scopus rank, placing it in the 68th percentile within the Arts and Humanities (Philosophy) category and the 21st percentile in Medicine (Health Policy). Though currently not offering Open Access options, Linacre Quarterly remains committed to advancing scholarly discussion and fostering innovation among researchers, professionals, and students alike. Located in the United Kingdom, this journal continues to uphold its reputation as a vital resource for those navigating the complexities of health-related ethical dilemmas and policy-making frameworks, thereby enhancing its visibility and relevance in academic discourse.
Ethik in der Medizin
Illuminating Ethical Challenges in MedicineEthik in der Medizin, published by Springer, is a distinguished journal focusing on the interdisciplinary aspects of ethics in medicine, healthcare policy, and philosophical inquiries related to these domains. With an ISSN of 0935-7335 and an E-ISSN of 1437-1618, this journal serves as a platform for innovative research and discussion from Germany and beyond. The journal boasts an impact in several prestigious categories including Q3 in Health Policy and Q2 in Philosophy as of 2023, reflecting its significant contribution to the discourse on ethical implications in health and medicine. Although not currently Open Access, Ethik in der Medizin provides valuable insights for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the complexities of health ethics and policies, positioning itself as an essential resource in academia. The journal is undergoing important developments, as it converges from 2001 with a publishing timeline extending to 2024, ensuring continued relevance in a rapidly evolving field.
New Bioethics-A Multidisciplinary Journal of Biotechnology and the Body
Pioneering Discussions at the Intersection of Science and EthicsNew Bioethics: A Multidisciplinary Journal of Biotechnology and the Body, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse at the intersection of biotechnology, health policy, and bioethics. With an ISSN of 2050-2877 and E-ISSN 2050-2885, this journal has been contributing to the academic community since its establishment in 2012 and is set to continue through 2024. It holds notable rankings in prestigious fields, including Q4 in Genetics (clinical), Q3 in Health Policy, Q2 in Issues, Ethics and Legal Aspects, and Q3 in Reproductive Medicine as per 2023 quartile indicators. Although no open access model is available, the journal remains an essential resource for those interested in the ethical implications of biotechnological advancements. Its focus on the ethical, legal, and social dimensions of biotechnology is particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving scientific landscape, making it invaluable for researchers, professionals, and students keen to explore the complexities surrounding the biotechnology and the human condition.
ETHICS & BEHAVIOR
Unraveling the Threads of Morality and Human ConductETHICS & BEHAVIOR is a leading academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd that has been at the forefront of ethical and behavioral research since its inception in 1991. With an ISSN of 1050-8422 and an E-ISSN of 1532-7019, the journal is committed to exploring the complex interactions between morality, ethics, and human behavior in various social contexts. Recognized for its significant contribution to the field, ETHICS & BEHAVIOR holds a notable Q2 ranking in both general psychology and social psychology categories, with impressive Scopus rankings reflecting its academic impact and relevance. Although the journal is not open access, it remains an indispensable resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to understand the ethical dimensions of human behavior. Covering diverse topics from applied ethics to behavioral studies, ETHICS & BEHAVIOR serves as a platform for innovative ideas and rigorous empirical research, shaping the discourse in psychology and social sciences. Address: 2-4 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RN, Oxon, England.
NURSING ETHICS
Pioneering Research in Nursing EthicsNURSING ETHICS, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, is a premier international journal dedicated to the exploration and examination of ethical issues within the field of nursing. Since its inception in 1994, the journal has consistently provided a critical platform for scholars and practitioners to discuss ethical dilemmas and address complex legal aspects affecting nursing practice. With a remarkable Q1 ranking in the categories of Issues, Ethics, and Legal Aspects, it ranks in the top percentile, boasting a 92nd percentile position among its peers. Although currently not an Open Access journal, NURSING ETHICS plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and advancing knowledge in the rapidly evolving landscape of nursing ethics, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal's commitment to high-quality research ensures that vital ethical considerations remain at the forefront of nursing education and practice, reinforcing its significance in a field that is continually impacted by ethical challenges.
International Journal of Chinese & Comparative Philosophy of Medicine
Exploring the Intersection of Tradition and Innovation in MedicineThe International Journal of Chinese & Comparative Philosophy of Medicine, published by GLOBAL SCHOLARLY PUBLICATIONS, is a pivotal scholarly platform dedicated to advancing the discourse around traditional Chinese medicine and comparative philosophies in healthcare. With the ISSN 1386-6354, this journal provides a rich repository of peer-reviewed articles that explore integrative approaches to medicine, addressing both historical context and contemporary applications. Although specific metrics such as impact factor are currently unavailable, it aspires to foster interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students by encouraging innovative thinking and comparative analysis within the realm of medical philosophy. While currently operating under non-open access guidelines, the journal remains committed to disseminating knowledge that bridges diverse medical practices, making it an invaluable resource for those engaged in the study and application of philosophical medicine.
Christian Bioethics
Bridging Science and Faith in Bioethical DiscourseChristian Bioethics is a pivotal journal published by Oxford University Press, dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of bioethical issues from a Christian perspective. Since its inception in 1995, the journal has served as a crucial platform for scholars, practitioners, and students to engage with complex ethical questions at the intersection of medicine, philosophy, and religious studies. With an evolving scope that reflects contemporary debates in bioethics, the journal has achieved notable rankings, including Q2 in Religious Studies and Q3 in Philosophy in 2023, underscoring its significance in these fields. While not open access, Christian Bioethics continues to bridge gaps between faith and science, encouraging rigorous dialogue on how Christian ethics can inform bioethical decision-making and policy. It is essential reading for those looking to deepen their understanding of ethical issues shaped by religious convictions, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and professionals alike.
South African Journal of Bioethics and Law
Exploring the crossroads of ethics and law in healthcare.South African Journal of Bioethics and Law, published by HEALTH & MEDICAL PUBLISHING GROUP, stands as a vital academic platform for discussions at the intersection of bioethics and legal studies. With an ISSN of 1999-7639, this journal has embraced an Open Access model since 2008, ensuring global accessibility for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Based in South Africa, the journal operates from PRIVATE BAG X1, PINELANDS, CAPE TOWN 7430, and features diverse articles that span a multitude of pertinent topics across health professions, law, and public health. It proudly holds a Q3 ranking in Health Professions and Law sectors, affirming its status within the scholarly community. Notably, for the year 2023, it has achieved impressive placements in Scopus ranks, reinforcing its commitment to disseminating high-quality research and fostering dialogues that influence policy and practice in these critical domains. Researchers exploring the intricate ethical and legal dimensions of healthcare will find this journal an indispensable resource.
Medecine & Droit
Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue in Medicine and LawMedecine & Droit, an esteemed journal published by ELSEVIER MASSON, CORP OFF, serves as a vital resource for the intersection of law and medicine. Since its inception in 1995, this journal has facilitated scholarly discourse by publishing innovative research, case studies, and reviews that explore the complexities of legal frameworks impacting medical practice and public health. Although currently classified in the fourth quartile within both the Law and Medicine (miscellaneous) categories for 2023, its contributions are important for legal professionals and healthcare providers seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of medical laws. With an ISSN of 1246-7391 and E-ISSN 1873-6475, it provides essential insights and stimulates interdisciplinary collaboration within academia. Authors and researchers are encouraged to contribute and engage with critical topics shaping the future of medicine and law through this essential publication.
Acta Bioethica
Navigating the Complexities of Healthcare EthicsActa Bioethica is a pivotal open access journal published by the Universidad de Chile's Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios Bioética, dedicated to the multidisciplinary exploration of bioethical issues in health policy and social sciences. Since its inception in 2000, the journal has fostered dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students, addressing the complexities of ethical practices in diverse health contexts. With an impressive commitment to accessibility, Acta Bioethica has become a vital resource for those engaged in understanding the ethics of healthcare in Latin America and beyond. Although currently ranked in the lower quartiles of Scopus in both health policy and social sciences, the journal is steadily gaining recognition for its unique contributions to bioethics. The journal accepts contributions in both English and Spanish, ensuring a wider reach and impact in the academic community. Located in Santiago, Chile, and active from 2007 to 2024, Acta Bioethica continues to be an essential platform for advancing research and discussions in the ever-evolving field of bioethics.