For Authors From LMIC

Global Public Health Practice and Health Systems Journal warmly welcomes submissions from researchers, implementers, and practitioners working in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We recognize that some of the most important public health evidence is generated in real service delivery environments—districts, facilities, communities, and programmes—yet it is often under-represented in the global literature. GPHHS exists to help publish that evidence clearly, credibly, and on time.

What we value (and actively look for)

We prioritize manuscripts that strengthen public health practice and health systems by answering practical questions such as:
What was done? What worked? What did not work? Whyames? And what should decision-makers do next?

We especially welcome:

  • Implementation research and scale-up learning
  • Program evaluations (effectiveness, process evaluations, realist evaluations)
  • Health systems research (workforce, financing, governance, service delivery, supply chains, HMIS/digital health)
  • Quality improvement and patient safety initiatives with measurable outcomes
  • Evidence that improves equity, access, and service performance in resource-constrained settings

You do not need a “perfect” setting to publish

LMIC research often happens under constraints—limited diagnostics, staffing gaps, routine data imperfections, or rapid programme changes. We do not penalize authors for working in real systems. Instead, we look for:

  • clear methods and honest limitations,
  • appropriate analysis,
  • ethical compliance,
  • and transparent interpretation that matches the data.

Well-reported operational learning is valuable—and publishable.

Constructive editorial support (not silent rejection)

We understand that many authors have experienced desk rejection with minimal feedback. At GPHHS, we aim to be clear and constructive. Submissions that fit our scope and meet basic reporting standards proceed quickly through editorial screening.

Editorial screening decision target: The journal aims to provide an initial editorial assessment within 5–7 days for complete submissions.

If revisions are needed before peer review (e.g., clarity, structure, ethics statements), we will communicate what to fix so the manuscript can move forward.

Fast, fair peer review

GPHHS uses double-blind peer review in most cases and aims to obtain at least two expert reviews.

For manuscripts sent for external review, the journal targets a first decision within 3–4 weeks. These timelines are indicative and may vary depending on reviewer availability, manuscript complexity, and the need for additional editorial checks.

Editorial decisions are based on scholarly merit, relevance to the journal’s scope, methodological quality, ethical integrity, clarity of reporting, and the strength of the evidence presented. Payment or ability to pay does not influence editorial decisions.

Affordable APC and transparency

GPHHS is an open access journal with an Article Processing Charge (APC) payable only after acceptance.

  • APC: USD $50 (after acceptance)
  • Editorial decisions are independent of ability to pay.
  • APC supports peer review management, copyediting, formatting, and online publication.

What makes a strong LMIC submission (quick checklist)

Before you submit, ensure your paper clearly states:

  • the public health or health system problem and why it matters,
  • the setting and implementation context (country, level of care, programme conditions),
  • your study design and sampling,
  • ethical approval/consent approach,
  • the analysis methods,
  • the key findings and what they mean for practice or policy,
  • limitations stated honestly (without over-claiming).

Not sure if your manuscript fits?

If you are uncertain whether your paper is within scope, we encourage a brief pre-submission inquiry. Include:

  • your title,
  • an abstract (or 6–8 sentence summary),
  • study setting and design,
  • and what you want feedback on.

We will respond with guidance on fit and the best manuscript category for submission.

GPHHS is committed to publishing credible LMIC evidence that improves services, strengthens systems, and informs policy. If your work can help public health programmes perform better, we invite you to submit.

Ready to submit?

If your work strengthens public health programmes or improves health systems performance, we invite you to submit to GPHHS.

 Submit Manuscript | Checklist for Submission | Contact the Editorial Office