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The eight types of pieces BCPHR publishes, with templates for each.
BCPHR publishes eight different types of pieces, each with its own length expectations, peer review status, and template. Choosing the right article type is the first step in preparing a manuscript for submission. This page describes each type and links to its template.
Original research articles describe results of original research of public health importance. Preferred length: 3,000 words maximum (excluding references, figures, and tables). Longer submissions are considered on a case-by-case basis. Original research articles undergo full peer review.
Review articles synthesize existing literature on a specific public health question. They may be systematic (with or without meta-analysis) or narrative. Preferred length: 500 to 3,000 words. Review articles undergo full peer review. Systematic reviews must follow PRISMA reporting guidelines.
Research letters are brief articles detailing original research findings. Preferred length: 750 words or less (excluding references, figures, and tables). Research letters undergo full peer review.
Commentaries and op-eds address public health issues from an evidence-based perspective. Point-Counterpoints are often solicited special editorials presenting opposing perspectives on a specific public health issue. Preferred length: 500 to 3,000 words. Commentaries undergo peer review.
Atypical articles are unique, creative pieces such as research protocols, essays, poems, policy memos, and ethical treatises related to public health. Preferred length: typically no more than 1,000 words. Atypical articles receive editorial review; peer review is contingent on content type.
Electronic media submissions include recordings of interviews, editorials, and BCPHR Author Insight videos. Pieces must be accompanied by a 200 to 300 word description. Authors are responsible for obtaining all reprint and image permissions; copies of release forms may be requested.
Blogs are thought pieces on a current public health topic. Preferred length: no more than 500 words. Blogs are reviewed by editors but do not undergo peer review.
Supplement submissions are pieces associated with a specific topic supplement. See the Supplements page for details on current supplements and how to propose a new one.
Templates for each article type are available through the Manuscript Preparation Guidelines page. Use of BCPHR templates ensures that all required elements (disclosures, formatting, structure) are included at submission. Manuscripts that do not use BCPHR templates may be returned to authors for correction before peer review.
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