Overview
IJDHDS operates a double-blind peer review model, meaning the identities of both authors and reviewers are concealed from each other throughout the review process. This ensures impartial evaluation based solely on the quality, originality, and relevance of the research.
Every submitted manuscript undergoes a rigorous multi-stage process that includes editorial screening, plagiarism detection, expert review by at least two independent reviewers, and final approval by the Editor-in-Chief.
Our peer review process follows the principles and best practice guidelines set by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE).
Review Workflow
From submission to final decision, every manuscript passes through the following stages:
1
Submission
The author submits the manuscript through the online submission system. All required files (manuscript, figures, cover letter, ethics approval) must be uploaded.
2
Editorial Screening
The Editor-in-Chief or Managing Editor reviews the submission for scope fit, formatting compliance, originality, and basic quality. Manuscripts that do not pass this stage are desk-rejected (typically within 3 business days).
3
Plagiarism Check
All manuscripts are screened using industry-standard plagiarism detection software (iThenticate). A similarity report is generated and reviewed by the editor.
4
Reviewer Assignment
The editor identifies and invites at least two qualified independent reviewers with relevant expertise. Reviewers are given 21 days to complete the review, with automatic reminders.
5
Peer Review
Reviewers assess the manuscript against a structured set of criteria (see
Review Criteria) and submit a recommendation to the editor.
6
First Decision
Based on the reviewers' reports, the editor makes one of the decisions described in
Decision Types. Authors receive the decision letter along with anonymized reviewer comments.
7
Revision & Re-review
For revisions, authors must submit a revised manuscript along with a point-by-point response to reviewer comments. Revised versions may be sent back to the original reviewers or evaluated by the editor.
8
Final Decision
After revisions are accepted, the Editor-in-Chief makes the final decision to accept the manuscript for publication.
9
Production
The manuscript is copyedited, typeset, and given a DOI. Authors review and approve proofs before the article is published.
Expected Timeline
The following timeline reflects typical durations. Actual times may vary depending on reviewer availability and revision complexity.
| Stage |
Duration |
| Editorial screening |
1 – 3 business days |
| Plagiarism screening |
1 – 2 business days |
| Reviewer invitation |
3 – 7 business days |
| Peer review (per reviewer) |
21 days |
| First decision |
4 – 6 weeks from submission |
| Author revision |
14 – 30 days (as specified) |
| Re-review (if needed) |
2 – 3 weeks |
| Final decision |
8 – 10 weeks from submission |
| Production & publication |
2 – 4 weeks after acceptance |
Overall Timeline
From submission to final decision, authors can typically expect 8 to 12 weeks, depending on how quickly reviewers respond and how many revisions are required.
Double-Blind Review
In a double-blind review, both the authors and the reviewers remain anonymous to each other. This reduces bias based on gender, ethnicity, institution, seniority, or nationality.
What Reviewers See
- - Manuscript title
- - Abstract and keywords
- - Full manuscript text
- - Figures, tables, and references
- - Ethics approval statement
What Reviewers Do Not See
- - Author names and affiliations
- - Corresponding author email
- - Author ORCID iDs
- - Acknowledgements section
- - Funding information
Author Responsibility
Authors must ensure the manuscript file (and any supplementary files) do not contain identifying information. Remove author names, affiliations, and acknowledgements from the main document before uploading.
Review Criteria
IJDHDS reviewers assess every manuscript against the following structured criteria:
Originality
Does the work contribute new knowledge or insights to the field?
Scientific Rigor
Are methods sound? Is the analysis appropriate? Are conclusions supported by data?
Literature Review
Is the literature review comprehensive? Are key works cited?
Ethical Compliance
Are ethics approvals and consent properly documented?
Clarity
Is the writing clear, well-structured, and grammatically correct?
References
Are references accurate, relevant, and properly formatted?
Relevance & Scope
Does the work fit the journal's scope and readership?
Significance
Does the work advance knowledge or practice in the field?
Decision Types
After peer review, the editor will issue one of the following decisions:
Accept
The manuscript is accepted as-is (rare) or with minor copyediting only. It proceeds directly to production.
Minor Revision
The manuscript requires small changes (e.g., clarifying text, adding references). Authors typically have 14 days to submit a revised version.
Major Revision
The manuscript has potential but requires substantial changes. Authors typically have 30 days to submit a revised version, which may be sent for re-review.
Reject
The manuscript is not suitable for publication in IJDHDS. This may be due to lack of originality, methodological problems, ethical concerns, or poor fit with the journal's scope. Authors may appeal (see below).
Revisions
When authors receive a revision decision, they must submit:
1
Revised Manuscript
A clean version with all changes incorporated.
2
Marked-up Version (Optional but Recommended)
A version showing tracked changes or highlighted edits.
3
Point-by-Point Response Letter
A detailed reply to each reviewer comment, explaining how you addressed it or why you disagree (with justification).
Important
If authors fail to respond within the revision deadline, the manuscript may be considered withdrawn. Requests for extensions should be sent to the editorial office before the deadline.
Appeals Process
If you believe the editorial decision was incorrect or unfair, you may appeal the decision. IJDHDS handles all appeals fairly and transparently.
01
Submit Appeal in Writing
Email editor@ijdhds.org with subject "Appeal: [Manuscript ID]". Include detailed reasoning.
02
Independent Review
A senior editor not involved in the original decision reviews the appeal impartially.
03
Outcome
The decision may be upheld, modified, or the manuscript may be sent for additional peer review.
04
Final Decision
All appeal decisions are final. Authors will receive written notification within 14 business days.
Become a Reviewer
IJDHDS relies on the expertise and dedication of our peer reviewers. If you hold a PhD or equivalent experience and would like to contribute to the scholarly community, we invite you to join our reviewer database.
Requirements
PhD or equivalent experience, active research record, and relevant expertise.
Commitment
1–3 reviews per year, each within 21 days.
Recognition
Certificate of recognition and annual acknowledgement on our website.
Questions About Peer Review?
Contact the editorial office for clarifications on the review process, timelines, or reviewer invitations.
Rigorous & Transparent
Email review@ijdhds.org