Editorial: Journal peer review in integrative medicine discipline

Abstract

Manuscript reviewers are described as the "gatekeepers of science" because they play an important role in dissemination of scientific information. Their responsibility is particularly great toward emergent fields such as integrative medicine that conduct investigations in a new research territory. In this editorial, we briefly describe several pitfalls that can impede reviewers' impartial judgment and that appear particularly important in regard to manuscripts concerning complementary and alternative medicine and integrative medicine. We suggest that increasing reviewers' awareness of the pitfalls can improve fairness in the peer review process. The ultimate responsibilities rest on the journal editors to ensure impartiality in the peer review process. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.