Confidentiality and Ethics

Maintaining confidentiality and ethical editorial practices is a cornerstone of trustworthy publishing. The Journal of Hematology and Clinical Research (JHCR) expects all editors and editorial board members to safeguard the confidentiality of manuscripts, peer-review communications, and author information.

Scope of Confidentiality

Confidentiality extends to all components of the editorial workflow, including submission details, reviewer identities, and communications. Editors must ensure that:

• Manuscript data is not shared beyond authorized editorial and production staff.
• Reviewers’ identities are kept anonymous under double-blind review.
• Manuscripts under review are not discussed or used for personal advantage.
• Data is stored securely according to GDPR and COPE recommendations.

Editorial Ethics and Conduct

Editors are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards as outlined by COPE, ICMJE, and WAME. Editorial ethics demand:

• Fair and unbiased assessment of all manuscripts.
• Prompt communication and accountability for editorial decisions.
• Respect for authors’ intellectual property and privacy.

Data Protection Responsibilities

Editors must follow secure data handling practices in accordance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and relevant international standards.

• Access to the submission system must be password-protected and restricted.
• Files downloaded for review must be deleted post-decision.
• Any data breach or unauthorized disclosure must be reported to the Editor-in-Chief immediately.

Ethical Communication

Editors should maintain a professional tone in all communications with authors, reviewers, and staff. Constructive criticism should aim to improve the manuscript, not demean the author.

Conflicts of Interest

Editors must declare any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from handling related manuscripts. This includes financial ties, institutional affiliations, or personal relationships.

Handling Reviewer Information

Reviewer identities, comments, and evaluations must be handled with discretion. Reviewers should be reminded to maintain confidentiality and destroy manuscript copies post-review.

Publication Integrity and Misconduct Handling

Editors must initiate a transparent investigation when ethical breaches occur, following COPE Flowcharts and maintaining a record of all actions.

Privacy and Author Rights

All personal or identifiable data (e.g., patient details, contact information) must be anonymized before publication unless written consent is obtained.

Training and Continuous Improvement

JHCR encourages editors to engage in ongoing ethics training via COPE webinars and ICMJE tutorials. Continuous education helps editors stay current with evolving data protection, privacy, and ethical frameworks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can editors share a manuscript with colleagues for advice?

Only with prior authorization from the Editor-in-Chief and provided confidentiality is strictly maintained.

What should editors do if they suspect a data breach?

Immediately inform the Editor-in-Chief and take steps to secure the system and notify affected parties.

Are editors allowed to use unpublished information from manuscripts?

No. Using confidential information for personal or academic advantage is unethical and a violation of COPE guidelines.

Contact Information

Editorial Office – Journal of Hematology and Clinical Research (JHCR)
Heighten Science Publications Inc.
Website: https://www.hematologyresjournal.com/
Email: [email protected]