South African Journal of Bioethics and Law

Scope & Guideline

Exploring the crossroads of ethics and law in healthcare.

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of South African Journal of Bioethics and Law through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore South African Journal of Bioethics and Law in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1999-7639
PublisherHEALTH & MEDICAL PUBLISHING GROUP
Support Open AccessYes
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2019 to 2024
AbbreviationS AFR J BIOETH LAW / S. Afr. J. Bioeth. Law
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPRIVATE BAG X1, PINELANDS, CAPE TOWN 7430, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The South African Journal of Bioethics and Law is dedicated to advancing the discourse on ethical and legal issues in the fields of healthcare, research, and law. It aims to provide a platform for critical examination and discussion of bioethical challenges, particularly within the South African context, while also addressing broader international implications.
  1. Bioethics in Healthcare:
    The journal focuses on ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare professionals, including informed consent, patient autonomy, and the implications of emerging medical technologies.
  2. Legal Framework and Health Policies:
    It examines the intersection of law and health, analyzing legal requirements, healthcare regulations, and the implications of national and international laws on healthcare delivery.
  3. Research Ethics:
    The journal emphasizes ethical considerations in research, including the conduct of research involving vulnerable populations, data sharing, and the responsibilities of research ethics committees.
  4. Public Health Ethics:
    It explores ethical issues related to public health initiatives, including vaccination policies, health equity, and the ethical responsibilities of healthcare systems during crises.
  5. Social Justice and Health Equity:
    The journal addresses issues of social justice in health, focusing on health disparities, access to care, and the ethical implications of healthcare practices in marginalized communities.
Recent publications in the South African Journal of Bioethics and Law reflect emerging themes that are increasingly relevant in contemporary discussions of bioethics and law. These trends indicate a dynamic and responsive approach to current issues within the field.
  1. Ethics of Global Health and Humanitarian Law:
    There is a growing focus on the ethical implications of global health initiatives, particularly in conflict zones and during humanitarian crises, as seen in discussions surrounding healthcare access in Gaza.
  2. Genomic Medicine and Ethical Challenges:
    Emerging themes related to genomic medicine, including ethical considerations in precision oncology and genetic editing, reflect the journal's responsiveness to advancements in medical technology.
  3. Health Data and Privacy Issues:
    The journal is increasingly addressing the ethical and legal complexities surrounding health data sharing, particularly in light of new regulations such as POPIA, highlighting the importance of data ethics in research.
  4. Social Justice in Health Policy:
    There is a notable trend towards incorporating social justice issues in health policy discussions, with a focus on equitable access to healthcare and the ethical responsibilities of health professionals.
  5. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Bioethics:
    The journal is embracing more interdisciplinary perspectives, integrating insights from law, sociology, and public health to address complex ethical dilemmas in healthcare and research.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has consistently addressed a range of bioethical and legal issues, certain themes appear to be declining in prominence based on recent publications. This may reflect shifts in societal focus or changes in the healthcare landscape.
  1. Traditional Medical Ethics:
    There seems to be a waning emphasis on traditional bioethical principles such as autonomy and beneficence, as the discourse increasingly incorporates broader social, political, and economic contexts.
  2. Conventional Legal Studies in Medicine:
    Legal analyses that strictly focus on established legal frameworks without integrating contemporary ethical challenges are becoming less common, indicating a shift towards more interdisciplinary approaches.
  3. Historical Analyses of Bioethics:
    Papers focused on historical perspectives of bioethics and law are appearing less frequently, suggesting that current topics and immediate ethical challenges are taking precedence over retrospective analyses.

Similar Journals

PERSPECTIVES IN BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE

Advancing Knowledge at the Biology-Medicine Frontier
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 0031-5982Frequency: 4 issues/year

PERSPECTIVES IN BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE, published by the esteemed Johns Hopkins University Press, has been a cornerstone of interdisciplinary dialogue since its inception in 1957. With a rich history spanning over six decades, this journal delves into the multifaceted interactions between biology and medicine, offering insights that are vital for health policy, ethics, and the philosophy of science. Recognized for its impact, it holds a Q2 ranking in the History and Philosophy of Science category and Q3 rankings in several other relevant fields as of 2023. While not an open-access publication, it provides critical analyses and discussions that are indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With its committed editorial team, PERSPECTIVES IN BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE continues to foster scholarly engagement and is poised to shape the future discourse in the biosciences.

Asian Bioethics Review

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue on Bioethical Issues
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1793-8759Frequency: 4 issues/year

Asian Bioethics Review, published by SPRINGER, is a premier journal indexed with ISSN 1793-8759 and E-ISSN 1793-9453, dedicated to advancing discourse in the interdisciplinary field of bioethics across Asia and beyond. Established in 2015, this esteemed publication has rapidly gained recognition, achieving a Q1 ranking in Philosophy and Q2 in key categories such as Health Policy and Issues, Ethics and Legal Aspects in 2023. With its robust Scopus rankings highlighting its significance across diverse domains—including a remarkable 98th percentile ranking in Philosophy—the journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, ethicists, and policymakers to explore pressing ethical issues and contribute to policy development in health and social sciences. Although not open access, the journal ensures a wide reach through institutional subscriptions, making it an essential resource for students and professionals committed to ethical practices in healthcare. Set in the dynamic backdrop of Singapore, "Asian Bioethics Review" continues to shape the conversation around bioethical practices in the Asian context and globally.

BMC Medical Ethics

Shaping the future of medical ethics through open dialogue.
Publisher: BMCISSN: 1472-6939Frequency: 1 issue/year

BMC Medical Ethics is a leading open-access journal dedicated to the critical exploration and dissemination of knowledge surrounding ethical issues in healthcare and medicine. Published by BMC, and headquartered in the United Kingdom, this journal has become a cornerstone in the field since its inception in 2000, with a remarkable focus on health policy, nursing ethics, and the complex legal aspects intertwining with healthcare practices. With an impressive Q1 ranking across multiple categories, including Health Policy and Health (Social Science), it ranks among the top journals globally—particularly notable with its Scopus rankings reflecting a strong 85th percentile in Nursing and an 81st percentile in Social Sciences. As an open-access publication, BMC Medical Ethics ensures that research findings are readily accessible, fostering a collaborative environment for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. The journal's commitment to ethical discourse not only advances academic inquiry but also shapes the practices and policies that govern healthcare delivery; thus, making it an invaluable resource for those engaged in the advancement of medical ethics.

Medecine & Droit

Shaping the Future of Medicine with Legal Expertise
Publisher: ELSEVIER MASSON, CORP OFFISSN: 1246-7391Frequency: 6 issues/year

Medecine & 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.

Revista Colombiana de Bioetica

Navigating the Complexities of Ethics and Law
Publisher: UNIV EL BOSQUEISSN: 1900-6896Frequency: 2 issues/year

Revista Colombiana de Bioetica, an esteemed publication under the auspices of UNIV EL BOSQUE, serves as a pivotal platform in the interdisciplinary field of bioethics, offering insights and scholarly discourse relevant to researchers, professionals, and students alike. With an ISSN of 1900-6896 and an E-ISSN of 2590-9452, this open access journal, available since 2010, champions the democratization of knowledge, ensuring that vital research is accessible to all. Nestled in Bogotá, Colombia, the journal's commitment to ethical inquiry and critical thinking in biomedical and health-related disciplines positions it as a crucial resource for those keen on exploring the intersections of ethics, law, philosophy, and health sciences. By facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas and research, the Revista Colombiana de Bioetica aspires to inspire informed dialogue and foster ethical practices within the scientific community and beyond.

Revista de Direito Sanitario-Journal of Health Law

Cultivating Knowledge at the Crossroads of Law and Health
Publisher: UNIV SAO PAULOISSN: 1516-4179Frequency: 3 issues/year

Revista de Direito Sanitario-Journal of Health Law is a prominent academic publication in the field of health law, published by the esteemed University of São Paulo (UNIV SAO PAULO), Brazil. With a focus on the intersection of law and public health, this Open Access journal has been disseminating vital research since its inception in 2013, allowing for wide accessibility and engagement from scholars and practitioners alike. The journal serves as a critical forum for advancing discussions on health-related legal issues, policy implications, and regulatory frameworks. While currently positioned in the fourth quartile in health (social science) and medicine (miscellaneous), and the third quartile in law, its acceptance and visibility continue to grow within the global academic community. The insights shared in this journal are invaluable for those striving to enhance legal practice and health policy, making it an indispensable resource for researchers, professionals, and students committed to the advancement of health law and its implications in society.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF LAW & MEDICINE

Illuminating Complex Issues in Law and Medical Ethics
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0098-8588Frequency: 4 issues/year

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF LAW & MEDICINE is a prestigious interdisciplinary journal published by Cambridge University Press that bridges the critical intersection of legal and medical scholarship. Since its inception in 1975, this journal has fostered scholarly dialogue surrounding complex legal issues affecting health care and medical ethics, significantly contributing to the fields of law and the social sciences. With its current impact factor highlights showcasing a Q2 ranking in Law and Q3 in Health (Social Science), along with a solid readership base, the journal appeals to researchers, legal professionals, and students alike, offering a platform for impactful research and case studies. Although it does not currently provide Open Access options, the journal continues to prioritize rigorous peer-reviewed content, ensuring that essential discussions on law and medicine remain accessible to its readership. By engaging with contemporary legal and medical issues, the AMERICAN JOURNAL OF LAW & MEDICINE plays a vital role in advancing knowledge and shaping practices within these dynamic fields.

New Bioethics-A Multidisciplinary Journal of Biotechnology and the Body

Navigating the Complexities of Body and Bioethics
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2050-2877Frequency: 3 issues/year

New 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.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH LAW

Empowering scholars and practitioners in health law.
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0929-0273Frequency: 5 issues/year

The European Journal of Health Law, published by Brill, stands as a pivotal resource for scholars and practitioners at the intersection of health policy and law since its inception in 1994. This esteemed journal, with an ISSN of 0929-0273 and an E-ISSN of 1571-8093, delves into pressing issues affecting health law across Europe and beyond, providing a platform for rigorous scholarly discourse. It is categorized in the Q4 quartile for Health Policy and Q3 for Law, highlighting its crucial role in advancing knowledge in these fields. While the journal is not an open-access publication, its content remains vital for researchers, students, and professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of health law amidst evolving legal frameworks. With an increasing focus on interdisciplinary studies, the journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of legal principles and their application to health care governance, policy-making, and ethical considerations, making it an indispensable reference for those committed to enhancing health law practice and scholarship.

Canadian Journal of Bioethics-Revue Canadienne de Bioethique

Navigating complexities in health policy ethics.
Publisher: UNIV MONTREAL, PROGRAMMES BIOETHIQUEISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Canadian Journal of Bioethics-Revue Canadienne de Bioethique, published by the Universite de Montreal, is a premier open-access journal dedicated to advancing the multidisciplinary field of bioethics since 2012. Emphasizing the complexities of ethical practices in health policy, it serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students engaged in health and philosophy. With its E-ISSN 2561-4665, the journal's content is freely accessible, fostering knowledge dissemination and academic collaboration. Although categorized in Q4 among Health Policy and Health (social science) in 2023, it holds a respectable Q2 status in Philosophy, reflecting its strong theoretical contributions. Covering a wide scope from 2018 to 2024, the journal encourages robust discourse on pressing ethical issues facing contemporary healthcare systems. For those seeking to connect with the evolving narratives in bioethics, this journal is indispensable.