We thank Dr. Brock for his comments on our editorial from the last issue of the CUAJ. 1 This editorial has interestingly garnered many responses on both sides of the ongoing discussion around print and digital editions of our medical journals – ranging from calls to drop print versions to those decrying the explosion of digital offerings. We do agree there is, at least at present, a real need and market for both. Online/electronic access to articles, allowing immediate search and reference capabilities, as well as digitally-formatted journals themselves are, or are becoming, pretty standard fare in our profession. However, as Dr. Brock nicely describes, there is likely a significant contingent of readers who prefer to peruse hard-copy journals and find them easier to navigate. Having a print edition land on your desk monthly is likely for many a better reminder to take a breath and review the latest studies and review articles compared to clicking on one of the innumerable email notifications we receive each day.
Many have predicted the “digital revolution” will have by now led to the extinction of the daily newspaper and radio: both seem to have survived and to some degree flourished. Nevertheless, as stated in our editorial, print-only journals are indeed becoming uncommon. As far as we are aware there are very few reputable medical journals that haven’t completely embraced, and continuously enhance, its digital/online presence. We are excited to be offering a highly readable, shareable digital version of the CUAJ: crib notes and all. We do completely concur with Dr. Brock that providing both options to CUA members and CUAJ subscribers is important as we continuously strive to increase the scope, readability and impact of the journal. We encourage any similar feedback and welcome your suggestions on the publication of your journal.