The success of JFMS has surpassed our expectations. When we launched it in 1999, we were sure that there was a need for a clinical feline journal, and were extremely hopeful for its success. However, the achievements over the past 9 years have exceeded even what we might have dreamt of at the start. Thanks to a strong and dedicated editorial board, and to the many outstanding papers that have been submitted to JFMS, we have been able to see the impact factor climb steadily. The journal not only occupies a truly mainstream position in the veterinary literature, it is a ‘journal of choice’ for many authors who wish to reach those interested in clinical feline medicine and surgery.
Despite the success of JFMS and the many positive comments we have received, as editors of JFMS (and as representatives of the European Society for Feline Medicine and the American Association of Feline Practitioners) there is one aspect in our original vision that has yet to be fully met. Our strong desire was to build a high quality journal that was regarded as indispensable for those actively engaged in feline clinical work. Although that has been achieved to a large degree, we recognise that there is scope to offer more to those engaged in the ‘front line’ of first opinion practice, as opposed to speciality practice or academia.
We cherish the reputation that JFMS has achieved to date. We firmly believe that the current enviable position the journal holds is due to the quality of the papers that we receive and our sceptical but supportive review process; our strong desire is to maintain and build on this position. To provide greater balance to what the journal provides we are planning an exciting initiative! In 2009, to mark the 10th anniversary of JFMS, we will move from a bimonthly to a monthly publication schedule. Our plan is to be innovative with the six new editions that will be published each year. Commencing in January, and alternating with six issues that will remain in the current ‘classic’ JFMS style, will be six issues of what we are describing as ‘JFMS Clinical Practice’. These will all be part of the same journal, but the look and feel will be very different.
JFMS Clinical Practice – a distinctive, but complementary, look will extend throughout
The concept behind the additional issues is that they will primarily contain topical and timely information of direct relevance to clinical feline practice. This will be largely in the form of opinionated reviews from respected clinicians and experts in their field, including reviews where traditional thinking (‘dog’ ma!) is challenged. These papers will be mostly commissioned, but rest assured that they will go through the same peer review process as any other JFMS paper and thus maintain the overall quality of the journal. We will also incorporate relevant case reports, practice tips and other clinical critiques.
As well as what promises to be a distinctive and engaging look and feel to the new issues of the journal, printed material will be supplemented with multimedia online elements to enhance the learning and interactive experience. We are hugely excited about this new dimension to JFMS, and are encouraging authors to provide practical, relevant and challenging reviews that present some ‘outside the box’ thinking and ideas.
We strongly believe that the greater scope and relevance of JFMS will enable us to engage with our entire readership in a more effective and pertinent way. Of course, if you have ideas for further developments or reviews you would like us to incorporate, please let us know.
In the coming months you will see and hear more about our new venture. For now we are looking forward to 2009 and our 10th anniversary in anticipation of great things ahead!
‘Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.’ Dalai Lama