The challenges of indexing and impact factor in Latin American cardiology journals

Daniel L. Piskorz, Instituto de Cardiología, Sanatorio Británico, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina

Bibliographic search is an essential tool to find answers to medical questions, stimulate the development of research projects and properly focus their design. The organization of bibliographic databases of primary sources of information is an essential need for the advancement of knowledge. On the Internet it is possible to access free of charge databases created and maintained, for the most part, by research centers, universities and public organizations. Most Latin American journals are considered in regional bibliographic databases, favoring the regional exposure of research products. However, the great challenge is indexing in Medline, mainly due to its global impact. The quality, scientific relevance and innovation of the articles published in a journal marks its impact factor. The editorial body of the journals tries to build and offer a high-quality scientific product, giving prestige to the scientific society it represents.

Keywords: Latin American journals. Indexing. Impact factor. Editors.