The Anatolian Journal of Medical Sciences (AJMS) employs a double-blind peer review system during its publication process. In this system, the identities of both authors and reviewers are kept confidential. The aim is to ensure that the evaluation process is conducted in an objective, scientific, and ethically sound manner.

Stages of the Peer Review Process
1. Reviewer Assignment: Section editors assign at least two independent reviewers who are experts in the relevant field. Reviewer selection is based on academic qualifications, subject expertise, and publication experience. A third reviewer may be appointed if necessary.
2. Review Timeline: Reviewers are expected to evaluate the manuscript within 15 days from the date of acceptance of the review invitation. If needed, an additional 7 days may be granted with the editor’s approval.
3. Evaluation Criteria: Reviewers assess the manuscript based on the following criteria:
     o Originality of the topic and its contribution to the literature
     o Validity and appropriateness of the research methodology
     o Sufficiency and scientific coherence of the findings
     o Accuracy of the interpretation of results
     o Compliance with ethical standards (e.g., ethics committee approval, informed consent)
     o Quality of writing, clarity of expression, and presentation
4. Reviewer Reports: Reviewers must provide clear and scientifically grounded feedback. Based on their evaluation, they are expected to recommend one of the following decisions:
     o Accept for publication
    o Revisions required (minor or major) and resubmission
    o Reject
5. Confidentiality: The entire peer review process is based on confidentiality. Reviewers may not share the manuscript or its content with third parties; it is to be examined solely for review purposes.
6. Conflict of Interest and Ethical Responsibilities: Reviewers must decline to review manuscripts in which they have a conflict of interest and must notify the editor accordingly. Throughout the review process, adherence to the principles of COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) is mandatory.