Confidentiality and Ethics
Editors of the Journal of Radiology and Oncology (JRO) are entrusted with sensitive information throughout the editorial process. To preserve trust and uphold academic integrity, strict standards of confidentiality and ethics must be maintained, consistent with COPE and ICMJE principles.
Confidential Handling of Manuscripts
- All manuscripts must be treated as confidential documents.
- Information may not be disclosed to anyone outside the editorial and peer review process.
- Editors must ensure that reviewer and author identities are protected in double-blind review.
Use of Unpublished Data
- Editors must not use unpublished information for personal research or gain.
- Unpublished data may only be shared with reviewers for evaluation purposes.
- Editors must prevent misuse of confidential material by anyone involved in review.
Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality
- Editors with conflicts of interest must recuse themselves from handling the manuscript.
- Confidential information may not be used to benefit competing research groups or institutions.
Communications and Transparency
Editors must ensure clear, respectful, and confidential communication with authors and reviewers. All editorial decisions should be documented and retrievable for audit purposes.
Data Protection and Privacy
- Editors must comply with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR).
- Personal information of authors, reviewers, and participants must remain confidential.
- Editors should ensure that consent is obtained for publication of identifiable information.
Reminder: Breaches of confidentiality or ethical standards may result in disciplinary action, removal from editorial duties, and notification of relevant institutions.
FAQs
Can editors discuss manuscripts with colleagues?
Only with individuals directly involved in the review process and under confidentiality obligations.
What should editors do if they suspect misuse of confidential data?
Report immediately to the Editor-in-Chief, who will initiate an investigation under COPE guidelines.
How should editors handle sensitive patient data?
Editors must ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and confirm that patient consent has been obtained.