With this first 2017 issue of Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics (POTG), we formally and enthusiastically announce our roles as co-editors of the journal. As we look towards the horizon, we are excited about what this opportunity offers for research and knowledge dissemination regarding older adult rehabilitation science in general, and for you, as our dedicated readership, reviewers and authors, as well as for us, as full-fledged co-editors (and for the next short while, as co-editors “in-training”)!
Since assuming the helm of POTG last summer, we often find ourselves using the metaphor of a ‘ship’ when referring to our shared role. This metaphor has been helpful in navigating the steep learning curve involved with understanding behind-the-scenes operations and day-to-day management of the journal, alongside our other responsibilities. In this editorial, we outline the present status of POTG, as well as snippets of our vision for the future, which includes each and every one of you – our current and prospective authors and reviewers, our editorial board members, and our other key stakeholders. All of you play important roles as contributors to (re)-shaping our future together.
Readying the POTG ship…
As the name of the journal implies, our shared editorship now reflects researchers from both rehabilitation fields, which is similar to the successful approach employed by Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics. During this time of transition and change at POTG, we thank those of you who have submitted and continue to submit your research to the journal. We are working to streamline various resources, processes and responsibilities. For example, the instructions for authors are undergoing significant revisions to enhance clarity and will be released in 2017. We have also created a reviewer database. This database ensures manuscripts are matched to reviewers with the methodological skills and expertise in the area, where possible. Ultimately, our aim is to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of the ‘review-feedback’ cycle, shortening the ‘in-review time period,’ as doing so will improve the quality and quantity of evidence being disseminated.
Beginning to map our journey…
Over the past 6 months, our priority was to address the backlog of manuscripts that were in queue for review and publication. We are pleased to report that the journal is now on track for completing publication of all 2016 issues. Not surprisingly, we have had queries from authors about the journal's status with obtaining an Impact Factor – an initial question we also had for our Taylor & Francis liaison. The goal of obtaining an Impact Factor is an important one for POTG and includes a number of critical steps. We are pleased to report that in July 2016 the journal was accepted for indexing in one of Thompson Reuters’ databases called the “Emerging Sources Citation Index” (ESCI). Getting indexed in ESCI is an important first step towards POTG getting an Impact Factor in the next few years. Another critical piece to getting an Impact Factor will be to assemble a strong, international editorial board. We would like to thank those who serve as members of our editorial board for their ongoing commitment to the journal. As we look forward to the next 6 months, our plan is to embark on a strategic planning initiative. While we have many ideas with regard to POTG, we know that getting input and feedback on the future direction of the journal is critical. Determining the best way forward in terms of knowledge and research dissemination in the electronic age is both exciting and daunting. We must be prepared to take calculated risks to ensure that the publication remains relevant and is well-positioned accordingly, and processes are nimble enough to respond to what is the inevitable constant…. change.
Sailing forward….
We are excited about serving as co-editors of POTG. In our role, we see ourselves as part of a team that includes all of you. We welcome your thoughts and ideas so please do not hesitate to contact us! As one author remarked in their recent correspondence with us – “Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics is a good journal.” We are a trusted source for many, including researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, who are looking for evidence that will impact the health, wellness, participation, and engagement of our aging population locally, as well as globally. We look forward to working with all of you as part of the POTG leadership team.