Guide for Author
AUTHOR GUIDELINES
I. Introduction to the Journal – Scope
II. Types of Articles Accepted
III. Manuscript Preparation Guidelines
IV. Publication Ethics and Authors' Responsibilities
V. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Research and Writing Process
VI. Manuscript Submission Methods
VII. Article Processing Charges
VIII. Manuscript Processing Procedure
I. Introduction to the Journal – Scope
The Journal of Community Medicine is a specialized scientific journal that publishes research with scientific and practical value in the fields of health sciences, community medicine, public health, and related medical and pharmaceutical disciplines. The Journal is intended for healthcare professionals, researchers, lecturers, and students in health sciences; all manuscripts are subject to editorial processing and scientific peer review prior to publication.
II. Types of Articles Accepted
(1) Original research articles: present quantitative, qualitative, or interventional research findings and follow a standard scientific structure;
(2) Review articles: synthesize and systematically analyze published studies, clarify scientific evidence, and provide directions for practice/research;
(3) Case reports: present typical, rare, or clinically valuable cases, ensuring all ethical requirements and patient consent are fulfilled.
(2) Review articles: synthesize and systematically analyze published studies, clarify scientific evidence, and provide directions for practice/research;
(3) Case reports: present typical, rare, or clinically valuable cases, ensuring all ethical requirements and patient consent are fulfilled.
III. Manuscript Preparation Guidelines
3.1. Article Structure
Articles must follow the internationally recognized IMRAD structure (Details at: https://www.springer.com/gp/authors-editors/journal-author/overview-of-imrad-structure/1408)
• Introduction
• Materials and Methods
• Results, and
• Discussion and Conclusions
Manuscripts submitted to the Journal must include all of the following components:
a) Title (Vietnamese and English);
b) Author(s) and contact information;
c) Abstract (Vietnamese and English);
d) Keywords (Vietnamese and English);
đ) Introduction/Background;
e) Materials and/or Methods;
f) Results;
g) Discussion;
h) Conclusion;
i) Appendices (if any);
k) Statement of scientific contributions (if applicable);
l) Conflict of interest statement (if applicable);
m) Acknowledgements to funding agencies and/or relevant organizations or individuals (if applicable);
n) References in the required format.
For each research design, authors should ensure that the manuscript meets the relevant scientific requirements and includes all necessary elements.3.2. Manuscript Formatting
3.2.1. General Formatting
General manuscript formatting requirements:
• Manuscripts must be submitted in Microsoft Word *.doc or *.docx format.
• A4 paper size, with 2.5 cm margins on all sides;
• Unicode encoding, Times New Roman font, 12-point size, with 1.5 line spacing.
Authors may use the “PL1. Manuscript Formatting” template.
In addition, authors may use the manuscript formatting support service provided by the Institute of Community Health by contacting the Institute directly. The applicable fee starts from 500,000 VND.
Support service contact information: Tel: 024.3762.1898; E-mail: ich@skcd.vn
3.2.2. Formatting for Different Article Types
Specific article types are subject to the following formatting requirements:
a, Original research article (Original paper):
+ The article should not exceed 4,000 words (approximately 10 standard pages), including tables and figures (no more than 6 tables and figures), references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The sections should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured into 1) Objective, 2) Research Methods, 3) Results, and 4) Conclusion (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases.
+ Introduction: include the background, rationale for conducting the study, and research objective.
+ Research Methods: include: 1) Study design; 2) Study setting and period; 3) Study participants; 4) Sample size and sampling method; 5) Study variables/indicators/content/themes; 6) Data collection techniques, instruments, and procedures; 7) Data processing and analysis; 8) Research ethics.
+ Results: present findings according to the study objectives using text, tables, charts/figures/maps as appropriate.
+ Discussion: discuss findings based on the results presented and use relevant references to compare and explain the research findings. Discuss study limitations and possible ways to address them.
+ Conclusion: summarize the main findings achieved by the study. Do not repeat numerical data already presented in the Results section. Conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, institutions, organizations, or projects that collaborated, funded, or supported the research.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): arranged in the order of appearance in the article.
+ Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, and page numbers.
b. Review article (Review paper)
The article should not exceed 4,000 words (approximately 7 standard pages), including figures, tables, references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The sections should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured abstract including 1) Objective, 2) Literature search and review methods, 3) Results, and 4) Conclusion (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases that are representative of and directly relevant to the main content of the article.
+ Introduction: include the rationale for conducting the review and the review objective.
+ Review Methods: include the type of review design, data sources, search strategy, time period, inclusion and exclusion criteria, screening process, methods for assessing study quality, PRISMA flow diagram, and methods for data synthesis and analysis.
+ Results: present search results, summarize information on the articles included in the review, and present the review findings according to the objectives.
+ Discussion: discuss the reviewed findings, knowledge derived from the review, and gaps not addressed by the review findings.
+ Conclusion: summarize the main findings of the review. Do not repeat numerical data already presented in the Results section. Conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, research projects, agencies, and/or organizations that supported the preparation of this review article.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): References (no more than 10 references): arranged according to the specified requirements. Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, pages, and DOI of the reference.
c, Case report/clinical case report (Case study):
+ Appropriate length (recommended no more than 2,000–2,500 words), including tables, figures, references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The number of tables and illustrative figures should be limited to those necessary (recommended no more than 4 tables and figures). The manuscript should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured abstract including 1) Background/Significance of the case, 2) Case summary, 3) Intervention and clinical course, and 4) Conclusion/Lessons learned (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases.
+ Introduction: state the background, rationale for selecting the case, and reporting objective.
+ Case presentation: provide a complete and logical description of the patient's history, clinical symptoms, laboratory and diagnostic findings, diagnosis, treatment, clinical course, and outcome; appropriate tables and illustrative images may be included.
+ Discussion: analyze the notable characteristics of the case, compare them with the domestic and international literature, state the practical significance and novelty, and discuss the limitations of the report.
+ Conclusion: summarize the key messages and lessons learned from the case; do not repeat data already presented; conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, institutions, organizations, or projects that collaborated, funded, or supported the research.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): arranged according to the specified requirements. Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, and page numbers.
To ensure transparency, completeness, and standardization in scientific reporting, the Journal recommends that authors follow the international reporting standards appropriate to each type of research. Specifically, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), authors should follow CONSORT; for observational studies, STROBE; and for diagnostic studies, STARD. For systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses, authors should follow PRISMA; and for clinical case reports, CARE should be applied. Proper use of the relevant checklist not only helps manuscripts meet peer-review requirements but also supports authors in presenting methods, results, and discussion in a consistent, clear, and verifiable manner.
3.3. Reference Formatting
The Journal allows authors to choose one of two reference citation styles: APA 7 (American Psychological Association – 7th edition) or Vancouver (Vancouver citation system). Authors must use one style consistently throughout the manuscript.
3.3.1. APA 7 Style (American Psychological Association – 7th edition)
+ In-text citations: use the author–year format, for example: (Nguyen, 2022); (Nguyen & Tran, 2022); for three or more authors, use et al.
+ Reference list: placed at the end of the article, unnumbered, and arranged alphabetically by the surname of the first author.
+ Each reference includes: Author(s). (Year). Title. Publication source. DOI/URL (if available).
+ Article titles should be written in sentence case (except for the first letter of the sentence and proper nouns); journal titles should be italicized and written in full.
3.3.2. Vancouver Style (Vancouver Citation System)
+ In-text citations: references are numbered in the order in which they appear, using square or round brackets, for example: [1], [2,3].
+ Reference list: numbered to correspond to the in-text citations and arranged in order of appearance.
+ Each reference includes: Author(s). Article title. Journal title. Year; volume(issue): pages. DOI (if available).
3.3.3. General Requirements
+ Every reference cited in the text must appear in the reference list and vice versa.
+ Priority should be given to authoritative scientific sources with a DOI or a valid access link.
+ Authors are encouraged to use reference management software (EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley, etc.) to ensure correct and consistent formatting.
3.4. Formatting of Tables and Charts
Tables and charts are used to illustrate and clarify research findings, helping to present data scientifically and clearly. Authors must ensure that tables and charts are clear and accurate and do not duplicate content already described in the text.
3.4.1. Tables
+ Tables are numbered by chapter/section, consisting of the chapter number followed by the table's sequence number within that chapter, for example: Table 1.1, Table 2.1, Table 3.1, etc.
+ The table title is placed above the table, is concise, accurately reflects its content, and is written in lowercase (except for the first letter of the sentence and proper nouns).
+ Table content must use consistent terminology and measurement units; abbreviations and symbols (if any) must be fully explained in the table notes.
+ Avoid overly complex tables; limit unnecessary rows and columns.
+ Each table must be clearly referenced in the manuscript using the correct table number (e.g., “the results are presented in Table 3.1”).
+ If the data were not directly collected by the authors, the data source must be stated below the table.
3.4.2. Charts and Illustrations (Figure)
+ Charts, drawings, diagrams, maps, and illustrative photographs are collectively referred to as Figures and are numbered by chapter/section, for example: Figure 1.1, Figure 2.1, Figure 3.1, etc.
+ The figure title is placed below the figure and should be concise and accurately reflect the content shown.
+ Charts must have clearly labeled axes, measurement units, and legends; colors should be harmonious, easily distinguishable, and suitable for black-and-white printing.
+ Images must be clear and have an appropriate resolution for publication; excessive graphic effects should be avoided.
+ Each figure must be cited in the manuscript using the correct figure number (e.g., “see Figure 2.1”).
3.4.3. General Requirements
+ Do not present the same result simultaneously in both a table and a chart unless it is genuinely necessary for illustration purposes.
+ Tables and charts must be appropriate to the study objectives and the Results section presented.
+ Authors are responsible for the accuracy of data, terminology, and symbols in tables and charts.3.5. Other Formatting Requirements
3.5.1. Numbers and Numerals
+ Numbers should be written using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.).
+ Decimal numbers should use a comma (,) according to Vietnamese convention and be used consistently throughout the manuscript (e.g., 3,5; 12,04).
+ The number of decimal places should be appropriate to the precision of the data (usually 1–2 decimal places; avoid excessive rounding).
+ Use spaces to separate thousands (e.g., 1 250; 10 000).
+ Measurement units should be placed after the number, with a space between the number and unit (e.g., 25 °C; 120 mmHg).
3.5.2. Units of Measurement
+ Use the International System of Units (SI); non-SI units should only be used when necessary and must be clearly explained.
+ Unit symbols should not be pluralized and should not be followed by a period (e.g., kg, mL, mmol/L).
3.5.3. Formulas and Equations
+ Mathematical/statistical formulas and equations should be presented on separate lines and centered.
+ Important formulas should be numbered according to the chapter/section (e.g., (1.1), (2.1), etc.).
+ Symbols and variables in formulas must be clearly explained immediately after their first appearance.
+ Use consistent symbols for statistical quantities (e.g., p, OR, RR, CI).
3.5.4. Terminology and Abbreviations
+ Use professional terminology consistently; avoid unnecessary abbreviations.
+ When an abbreviation is used, write the full term at its first occurrence, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses.
+ Do not use abbreviations in the title or abstract (except for very common international terms).
3.5.5. Scientific Names of Organisms
+ Scientific names of organisms should follow international Latin nomenclature and be italicized.
+ At the first occurrence, write the full genus and species name (e.g., Escherichia coli); subsequent occurrences may abbreviate the genus name (e.g., E. coli).
+ Do not italicize Vietnamese common names of species.
3.5.6. Statistical Symbols
+ Statistical symbols should be presented consistently, with variable symbols italicized (p, n, SD, OR, CI).
+ p-values should be presented precisely (e.g., p = 0,032), and should not be written as p < 0,000.
3.5.7. Time and Dates
+ Research periods should be stated using the day/month/year format (e.g., 01/3/2025).
+ Time periods should be clearly presented (e.g., from January 2024 to December 2025).
Articles must follow the internationally recognized IMRAD structure (Details at: https://www.springer.com/gp/authors-editors/journal-author/overview-of-imrad-structure/1408)
• Introduction
• Materials and Methods
• Results, and
• Discussion and Conclusions
Manuscripts submitted to the Journal must include all of the following components:
a) Title (Vietnamese and English);
b) Author(s) and contact information;
c) Abstract (Vietnamese and English);
d) Keywords (Vietnamese and English);
đ) Introduction/Background;
e) Materials and/or Methods;
f) Results;
g) Discussion;
h) Conclusion;
i) Appendices (if any);
k) Statement of scientific contributions (if applicable);
l) Conflict of interest statement (if applicable);
m) Acknowledgements to funding agencies and/or relevant organizations or individuals (if applicable);
n) References in the required format.
For each research design, authors should ensure that the manuscript meets the relevant scientific requirements and includes all necessary elements.3.2. Manuscript Formatting
3.2.1. General Formatting
General manuscript formatting requirements:
• Manuscripts must be submitted in Microsoft Word *.doc or *.docx format.
• A4 paper size, with 2.5 cm margins on all sides;
• Unicode encoding, Times New Roman font, 12-point size, with 1.5 line spacing.
Authors may use the “PL1. Manuscript Formatting” template.
In addition, authors may use the manuscript formatting support service provided by the Institute of Community Health by contacting the Institute directly. The applicable fee starts from 500,000 VND.
Support service contact information: Tel: 024.3762.1898; E-mail: ich@skcd.vn
3.2.2. Formatting for Different Article Types
Specific article types are subject to the following formatting requirements:
a, Original research article (Original paper):
+ The article should not exceed 4,000 words (approximately 10 standard pages), including tables and figures (no more than 6 tables and figures), references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The sections should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured into 1) Objective, 2) Research Methods, 3) Results, and 4) Conclusion (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases.
+ Introduction: include the background, rationale for conducting the study, and research objective.
+ Research Methods: include: 1) Study design; 2) Study setting and period; 3) Study participants; 4) Sample size and sampling method; 5) Study variables/indicators/content/themes; 6) Data collection techniques, instruments, and procedures; 7) Data processing and analysis; 8) Research ethics.
+ Results: present findings according to the study objectives using text, tables, charts/figures/maps as appropriate.
+ Discussion: discuss findings based on the results presented and use relevant references to compare and explain the research findings. Discuss study limitations and possible ways to address them.
+ Conclusion: summarize the main findings achieved by the study. Do not repeat numerical data already presented in the Results section. Conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, institutions, organizations, or projects that collaborated, funded, or supported the research.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): arranged in the order of appearance in the article.
+ Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, and page numbers.
b. Review article (Review paper)
The article should not exceed 4,000 words (approximately 7 standard pages), including figures, tables, references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The sections should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured abstract including 1) Objective, 2) Literature search and review methods, 3) Results, and 4) Conclusion (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases that are representative of and directly relevant to the main content of the article.
+ Introduction: include the rationale for conducting the review and the review objective.
+ Review Methods: include the type of review design, data sources, search strategy, time period, inclusion and exclusion criteria, screening process, methods for assessing study quality, PRISMA flow diagram, and methods for data synthesis and analysis.
+ Results: present search results, summarize information on the articles included in the review, and present the review findings according to the objectives.
+ Discussion: discuss the reviewed findings, knowledge derived from the review, and gaps not addressed by the review findings.
+ Conclusion: summarize the main findings of the review. Do not repeat numerical data already presented in the Results section. Conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, research projects, agencies, and/or organizations that supported the preparation of this review article.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): References (no more than 10 references): arranged according to the specified requirements. Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, pages, and DOI of the reference.
c, Case report/clinical case report (Case study):
+ Appropriate length (recommended no more than 2,000–2,500 words), including tables, figures, references, and abstracts in Vietnamese and English. The number of tables and illustrative figures should be limited to those necessary (recommended no more than 4 tables and figures). The manuscript should be presented in the following order:
+ Title (Vietnamese): written in lowercase, bold.
+ Author names and affiliations: provide the full names of all authors and their email addresses and institutional affiliations; do not include titles or academic degrees.
+ Abstract: structured abstract including 1) Background/Significance of the case, 2) Case summary, 3) Intervention and clinical course, and 4) Conclusion/Lessons learned (no more than 250 words).
+ Keywords: 3–6 words/phrases, using concise terms or phrases.
+ Introduction: state the background, rationale for selecting the case, and reporting objective.
+ Case presentation: provide a complete and logical description of the patient's history, clinical symptoms, laboratory and diagnostic findings, diagnosis, treatment, clinical course, and outcome; appropriate tables and illustrative images may be included.
+ Discussion: analyze the notable characteristics of the case, compare them with the domestic and international literature, state the practical significance and novelty, and discuss the limitations of the report.
+ Conclusion: summarize the key messages and lessons learned from the case; do not repeat data already presented; conclusions should not be presented as bullet points or numbered items.
+ Statement of the authors' scientific contributions to the published work.
+ Declaration of conflicts of interest, if any.
+ Acknowledgements: acknowledge individuals, groups, institutions, organizations, or projects that collaborated, funded, or supported the research.
+ Title, authors and affiliations, and abstract in English: must be accurately translated from the corresponding Vietnamese sections, with correct grammar and appropriate scientific style.
+ References (no more than 10 references): arranged according to the specified requirements. Each cited reference should include the following: author name(s), book/article title, journal, publication year, volume, issue, and page numbers.
To ensure transparency, completeness, and standardization in scientific reporting, the Journal recommends that authors follow the international reporting standards appropriate to each type of research. Specifically, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), authors should follow CONSORT; for observational studies, STROBE; and for diagnostic studies, STARD. For systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses, authors should follow PRISMA; and for clinical case reports, CARE should be applied. Proper use of the relevant checklist not only helps manuscripts meet peer-review requirements but also supports authors in presenting methods, results, and discussion in a consistent, clear, and verifiable manner.
3.3. Reference Formatting
The Journal allows authors to choose one of two reference citation styles: APA 7 (American Psychological Association – 7th edition) or Vancouver (Vancouver citation system). Authors must use one style consistently throughout the manuscript.
3.3.1. APA 7 Style (American Psychological Association – 7th edition)
+ In-text citations: use the author–year format, for example: (Nguyen, 2022); (Nguyen & Tran, 2022); for three or more authors, use et al.
+ Reference list: placed at the end of the article, unnumbered, and arranged alphabetically by the surname of the first author.
+ Each reference includes: Author(s). (Year). Title. Publication source. DOI/URL (if available).
+ Article titles should be written in sentence case (except for the first letter of the sentence and proper nouns); journal titles should be italicized and written in full.
3.3.2. Vancouver Style (Vancouver Citation System)
+ In-text citations: references are numbered in the order in which they appear, using square or round brackets, for example: [1], [2,3].
+ Reference list: numbered to correspond to the in-text citations and arranged in order of appearance.
+ Each reference includes: Author(s). Article title. Journal title. Year; volume(issue): pages. DOI (if available).
3.3.3. General Requirements
+ Every reference cited in the text must appear in the reference list and vice versa.
+ Priority should be given to authoritative scientific sources with a DOI or a valid access link.
+ Authors are encouraged to use reference management software (EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley, etc.) to ensure correct and consistent formatting.
3.4. Formatting of Tables and Charts
Tables and charts are used to illustrate and clarify research findings, helping to present data scientifically and clearly. Authors must ensure that tables and charts are clear and accurate and do not duplicate content already described in the text.
3.4.1. Tables
+ Tables are numbered by chapter/section, consisting of the chapter number followed by the table's sequence number within that chapter, for example: Table 1.1, Table 2.1, Table 3.1, etc.
+ The table title is placed above the table, is concise, accurately reflects its content, and is written in lowercase (except for the first letter of the sentence and proper nouns).
+ Table content must use consistent terminology and measurement units; abbreviations and symbols (if any) must be fully explained in the table notes.
+ Avoid overly complex tables; limit unnecessary rows and columns.
+ Each table must be clearly referenced in the manuscript using the correct table number (e.g., “the results are presented in Table 3.1”).
+ If the data were not directly collected by the authors, the data source must be stated below the table.
3.4.2. Charts and Illustrations (Figure)
+ Charts, drawings, diagrams, maps, and illustrative photographs are collectively referred to as Figures and are numbered by chapter/section, for example: Figure 1.1, Figure 2.1, Figure 3.1, etc.
+ The figure title is placed below the figure and should be concise and accurately reflect the content shown.
+ Charts must have clearly labeled axes, measurement units, and legends; colors should be harmonious, easily distinguishable, and suitable for black-and-white printing.
+ Images must be clear and have an appropriate resolution for publication; excessive graphic effects should be avoided.
+ Each figure must be cited in the manuscript using the correct figure number (e.g., “see Figure 2.1”).
3.4.3. General Requirements
+ Do not present the same result simultaneously in both a table and a chart unless it is genuinely necessary for illustration purposes.
+ Tables and charts must be appropriate to the study objectives and the Results section presented.
+ Authors are responsible for the accuracy of data, terminology, and symbols in tables and charts.3.5. Other Formatting Requirements
3.5.1. Numbers and Numerals
+ Numbers should be written using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.).
+ Decimal numbers should use a comma (,) according to Vietnamese convention and be used consistently throughout the manuscript (e.g., 3,5; 12,04).
+ The number of decimal places should be appropriate to the precision of the data (usually 1–2 decimal places; avoid excessive rounding).
+ Use spaces to separate thousands (e.g., 1 250; 10 000).
+ Measurement units should be placed after the number, with a space between the number and unit (e.g., 25 °C; 120 mmHg).
3.5.2. Units of Measurement
+ Use the International System of Units (SI); non-SI units should only be used when necessary and must be clearly explained.
+ Unit symbols should not be pluralized and should not be followed by a period (e.g., kg, mL, mmol/L).
3.5.3. Formulas and Equations
+ Mathematical/statistical formulas and equations should be presented on separate lines and centered.
+ Important formulas should be numbered according to the chapter/section (e.g., (1.1), (2.1), etc.).
+ Symbols and variables in formulas must be clearly explained immediately after their first appearance.
+ Use consistent symbols for statistical quantities (e.g., p, OR, RR, CI).
3.5.4. Terminology and Abbreviations
+ Use professional terminology consistently; avoid unnecessary abbreviations.
+ When an abbreviation is used, write the full term at its first occurrence, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses.
+ Do not use abbreviations in the title or abstract (except for very common international terms).
3.5.5. Scientific Names of Organisms
+ Scientific names of organisms should follow international Latin nomenclature and be italicized.
+ At the first occurrence, write the full genus and species name (e.g., Escherichia coli); subsequent occurrences may abbreviate the genus name (e.g., E. coli).
+ Do not italicize Vietnamese common names of species.
3.5.6. Statistical Symbols
+ Statistical symbols should be presented consistently, with variable symbols italicized (p, n, SD, OR, CI).
+ p-values should be presented precisely (e.g., p = 0,032), and should not be written as p < 0,000.
3.5.7. Time and Dates
+ Research periods should be stated using the day/month/year format (e.g., 01/3/2025).
+ Time periods should be clearly presented (e.g., from January 2024 to December 2025).
IV. Publication Ethics and Authors' Responsibilities
The Journal follows internationally recognized principles of publication ethics and requires all authors and co-authors to strictly comply with the following regulations to ensure the integrity, transparency, and scientific value of published work.
4.1. Originality and Scientific Integrity
+ Manuscripts submitted for publication must be original works that have not been previously published and are not simultaneously submitted to any other journal or publication.
+ Authors bear full responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of the data, results, and conclusions presented in the article.
+ Any act of data manipulation, fabrication, falsification, or intentional selection of data to alter the nature of research findings is considered a violation of publication ethics.
4.2. Plagiarism and Self-Plagiarism
+ The Journal does not accept plagiarism in any form, including verbatim copying, paraphrasing others' work without citation, or using images/tables without permission.
+ Self-plagiarism, including reuse of previously published content or data by the same authors without citation or disclosure, is also considered a violation.
+ Authors are encouraged to conduct a similarity check before submission. The Journal reserves the right to use plagiarism-detection software during manuscript processing.
4.3. Authorship and Responsibilities of Co-authors
+ Only individuals who have made substantial contributions to the conception, research design, data collection/analysis, or writing and revision of the manuscript should be listed as authors.
+ The order of authorship must be agreed upon by the author group before submission.
+ All authors must read and approve the final manuscript and share responsibility for the published work.
+ Adding, removing, or changing the order of authors after submission requires a written explanation and written consent from all authors.
4.4. Research Ethics Involving Research Participants
+ Studies involving human participants, personal data, human biological samples, or animals must receive approval from a competent Research Ethics Committee before the study begins.
+ The manuscript must clearly state the name of the ethics committee, approving institution, and approval/reference number.
+ Research participants must be provided with adequate information and give voluntary informed consent (in writing or in an appropriate form).
+ Personal information of research participants must be strictly protected and kept confidential.
4.5. Ethics for Case Reports
+ Case reports must obtain written consent from the patient or legally authorized representative for publication of information and images.
+ All potentially identifying patient information must be completely anonymized.
+ Authors bear legal responsibility for any violation of patient privacy.
4.6. Conflicts of Interest and Funding
+ Authors must fully and honestly disclose any financial or non-financial conflicts of interest that may influence the results or interpretation of the research.
+ All sources of funding, financial support, equipment, or technical assistance for the research must be clearly stated in the article.
+ Disclosure of conflicts of interest does not constitute an ethical violation; failure to disclose them is considered a serious violation.
4.7. Responsibilities After Publication
+ If a serious error is identified after publication through feedback from the scientific community submitted to the Journal, authors are responsible for providing an explanation and proactively notifying the Editorial Board so that a correction, erratum, or retraction can be implemented in accordance with applicable regulations.
+ The Journal reserves the right to reject, suspend processing, correct, or retract an article if a publication ethics violation is identified at any stage.
4.8. Author Declaration
Upon submission, authors must provide the Author Declaration (Appendix 2), confirming full compliance with publication ethics, authorship requirements, and legal responsibilities related to the manuscript.
4.1. Originality and Scientific Integrity
+ Manuscripts submitted for publication must be original works that have not been previously published and are not simultaneously submitted to any other journal or publication.
+ Authors bear full responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of the data, results, and conclusions presented in the article.
+ Any act of data manipulation, fabrication, falsification, or intentional selection of data to alter the nature of research findings is considered a violation of publication ethics.
4.2. Plagiarism and Self-Plagiarism
+ The Journal does not accept plagiarism in any form, including verbatim copying, paraphrasing others' work without citation, or using images/tables without permission.
+ Self-plagiarism, including reuse of previously published content or data by the same authors without citation or disclosure, is also considered a violation.
+ Authors are encouraged to conduct a similarity check before submission. The Journal reserves the right to use plagiarism-detection software during manuscript processing.
4.3. Authorship and Responsibilities of Co-authors
+ Only individuals who have made substantial contributions to the conception, research design, data collection/analysis, or writing and revision of the manuscript should be listed as authors.
+ The order of authorship must be agreed upon by the author group before submission.
+ All authors must read and approve the final manuscript and share responsibility for the published work.
+ Adding, removing, or changing the order of authors after submission requires a written explanation and written consent from all authors.
4.4. Research Ethics Involving Research Participants
+ Studies involving human participants, personal data, human biological samples, or animals must receive approval from a competent Research Ethics Committee before the study begins.
+ The manuscript must clearly state the name of the ethics committee, approving institution, and approval/reference number.
+ Research participants must be provided with adequate information and give voluntary informed consent (in writing or in an appropriate form).
+ Personal information of research participants must be strictly protected and kept confidential.
4.5. Ethics for Case Reports
+ Case reports must obtain written consent from the patient or legally authorized representative for publication of information and images.
+ All potentially identifying patient information must be completely anonymized.
+ Authors bear legal responsibility for any violation of patient privacy.
4.6. Conflicts of Interest and Funding
+ Authors must fully and honestly disclose any financial or non-financial conflicts of interest that may influence the results or interpretation of the research.
+ All sources of funding, financial support, equipment, or technical assistance for the research must be clearly stated in the article.
+ Disclosure of conflicts of interest does not constitute an ethical violation; failure to disclose them is considered a serious violation.
4.7. Responsibilities After Publication
+ If a serious error is identified after publication through feedback from the scientific community submitted to the Journal, authors are responsible for providing an explanation and proactively notifying the Editorial Board so that a correction, erratum, or retraction can be implemented in accordance with applicable regulations.
+ The Journal reserves the right to reject, suspend processing, correct, or retract an article if a publication ethics violation is identified at any stage.
4.8. Author Declaration
Upon submission, authors must provide the Author Declaration (Appendix 2), confirming full compliance with publication ethics, authorship requirements, and legal responsibilities related to the manuscript.
V. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Research and Writing Process
The Journal permits authors to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support the research and manuscript preparation process, provided that such use strictly complies with publication ethics and scientific responsibility principles.
+ AI may only be used as a supporting tool, including but not limited to language editing, improving writing style, assisting with literature summarization, suggesting presentation structures, or supporting technical analysis.
+ AI cannot be considered an author and must not be listed among the authors or in the author contribution section. All scientific content, data, interpretations, and conclusions remain the sole responsibility of the authors.
+ Authors must not use AI to generate, fabricate, manipulate, or falsify research data, scientific images, results, or references. The use of AI to generate fabricated data, misleadingly modify images, or create nonexistent citations is considered a serious violation of publication ethics.
+ When AI is used to a substantial extent in writing, editing the manuscript, or analysis, authors must transparently disclose such use in the article (e.g., in the Methods, Acknowledgements, or Declaration section), specifying the name of the AI tool, version (if applicable), and purpose of use.
+ The use of AI does not alter requirements concerning research ethics, including the protection of personal data, privacy of research participants, and compliance with Research Ethics Committee approvals. Authors are responsible for ensuring that data entered into AI tools do not violate privacy, copyright, or applicable legal regulations.
+ The Editorial Board reserves the right to request a detailed explanation of AI use when necessary and may reject, suspend processing, or retract an article if AI has been used inappropriately or in violation of publication ethics.
+ AI may only be used as a supporting tool, including but not limited to language editing, improving writing style, assisting with literature summarization, suggesting presentation structures, or supporting technical analysis.
+ AI cannot be considered an author and must not be listed among the authors or in the author contribution section. All scientific content, data, interpretations, and conclusions remain the sole responsibility of the authors.
+ Authors must not use AI to generate, fabricate, manipulate, or falsify research data, scientific images, results, or references. The use of AI to generate fabricated data, misleadingly modify images, or create nonexistent citations is considered a serious violation of publication ethics.
+ When AI is used to a substantial extent in writing, editing the manuscript, or analysis, authors must transparently disclose such use in the article (e.g., in the Methods, Acknowledgements, or Declaration section), specifying the name of the AI tool, version (if applicable), and purpose of use.
+ The use of AI does not alter requirements concerning research ethics, including the protection of personal data, privacy of research participants, and compliance with Research Ethics Committee approvals. Authors are responsible for ensuring that data entered into AI tools do not violate privacy, copyright, or applicable legal regulations.
+ The Editorial Board reserves the right to request a detailed explanation of AI use when necessary and may reject, suspend processing, or retract an article if AI has been used inappropriately or in violation of publication ethics.
VI. Manuscript Submission Methods
Authors may submit manuscripts to the Journal through one of the following methods:
1. Submit through the Journal's online system: “Here” (Link).
2. Submit by email: tapchiyhcd@skcd.vn
To ensure that the submission is received and entered into the processing procedure, authors should provide all of the following files:
(1) Author Declaration: complete the required information according to the template, with the required signatures, confirming the originality of the work, compliance with publication ethics, and legal responsibilities related to the manuscript.
(2) Full manuscript with author information: the complete manuscript, including the title, authors' full names, institutional affiliations, contact email addresses, and the entire article content, tables, figures, and references (together with relevant declarations such as author contributions, conflicts of interest, funding, etc., if applicable).
(3) Blind manuscript (blind manuscript): a manuscript from which all identifying information about the authors has been removed (names, affiliations, email addresses, acknowledgements, funding information, or other details that could reveal author identity), for the purpose of double-blind peer review.
Authors are responsible for ensuring that the content of the full manuscript and the blind manuscript is consistent and for carefully checking all attached files before submission. The Editorial Board will only process submissions that comply with the regulations and contain all required components.
1. Submit through the Journal's online system: “Here” (Link).
2. Submit by email: tapchiyhcd@skcd.vn
To ensure that the submission is received and entered into the processing procedure, authors should provide all of the following files:
(1) Author Declaration: complete the required information according to the template, with the required signatures, confirming the originality of the work, compliance with publication ethics, and legal responsibilities related to the manuscript.
(2) Full manuscript with author information: the complete manuscript, including the title, authors' full names, institutional affiliations, contact email addresses, and the entire article content, tables, figures, and references (together with relevant declarations such as author contributions, conflicts of interest, funding, etc., if applicable).
(3) Blind manuscript (blind manuscript): a manuscript from which all identifying information about the authors has been removed (names, affiliations, email addresses, acknowledgements, funding information, or other details that could reveal author identity), for the purpose of double-blind peer review.
Authors are responsible for ensuring that the content of the full manuscript and the blind manuscript is consistent and for carefully checking all attached files before submission. The Editorial Board will only process submissions that comply with the regulations and contain all required components.
VII. Article Processing Charges
7.1.1. Fees
The Journal of Community Medicine charges an Article Processing Charge (APC) according to principles of openness, transparency, and alignment with international practice. The payment of a fee does not affect the peer-review process, does not guarantee acceptance for publication, and is completely separate from academic and financial decisions. The fees are used to support double-blind peer review, editing, proofreading, typesetting, publication, payment of taxes and fees as required by law, and maintenance of the Journal's scientific publishing system.
The Journal currently offers two publication options:
(1) Standard publication:
+ Estimated timeline: Peer review and editorial processing approximately 6–8 weeks; publication within 4–5 months.
+ Fee: 2,500,000 VND/article (or USD 120/article for international authors).
+ Suitable for articles that do not require expedited publication.
(2) Fast-track publication:
+ Estimated timeline: Peer review and editorial processing within approximately 4–5 weeks; publication within 2–3 months after the authors complete revisions required for academic and technical reasons.
+ Fee: 3,500,000 VND/article (or USD 200/article for international authors).
+ Note: fast-track publication does not reduce scientific requirements; manuscripts that do not meet the requirements may still be rejected.
7.1.2. Timing and Procedure
Authors shall pay the fee after the Journal officially accepts the manuscript for processing and upon notification from the Editorial Board. The procedure includes:
(1) Receive notification that the manuscript has been received, confirming the publication option and applicable fee;
(2) Make a bank transfer according to the Journal's payment information;
(3) Send proof of payment through the system or by email to the Journal;
(4) The Editorial Board confirms completion of the financial obligation and proceeds with publication.
7.1.3. Payment Method
+ Method: Bank transfer.
+ Transfer description: Corresponding author's full name – Article processing fee (standard/fast-track).
+ Account receiving the article processing fee: Journal of Community Medicine: 0861100688668, Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank, Ba Dinh Branch, Hanoi.
7.1.4. Waiver, Reduction, and Refund Policy
The Journal may consider waiving or reducing fees in certain special circumstances (for example: doctoral students or postgraduate students with financial difficulties; articles concerning social welfare or support for vulnerable groups without funding; or official scientific cooperation programs with the Journal).
Fees already paid will not be refunded once an article has been accepted and entered the publication process; exceptional cases resulting from errors on the part of the Journal will be considered in accordance with internal regulations.
7.1.5. Journal Commitment
The Journal of Community Medicine commits to managing revenue and expenditure in accordance with applicable laws, maintaining financial transparency and academic integrity, and not charging any fees other than those officially published.
The Journal of Community Medicine charges an Article Processing Charge (APC) according to principles of openness, transparency, and alignment with international practice. The payment of a fee does not affect the peer-review process, does not guarantee acceptance for publication, and is completely separate from academic and financial decisions. The fees are used to support double-blind peer review, editing, proofreading, typesetting, publication, payment of taxes and fees as required by law, and maintenance of the Journal's scientific publishing system.
The Journal currently offers two publication options:
(1) Standard publication:
+ Estimated timeline: Peer review and editorial processing approximately 6–8 weeks; publication within 4–5 months.
+ Fee: 2,500,000 VND/article (or USD 120/article for international authors).
+ Suitable for articles that do not require expedited publication.
(2) Fast-track publication:
+ Estimated timeline: Peer review and editorial processing within approximately 4–5 weeks; publication within 2–3 months after the authors complete revisions required for academic and technical reasons.
+ Fee: 3,500,000 VND/article (or USD 200/article for international authors).
+ Note: fast-track publication does not reduce scientific requirements; manuscripts that do not meet the requirements may still be rejected.
7.1.2. Timing and Procedure
Authors shall pay the fee after the Journal officially accepts the manuscript for processing and upon notification from the Editorial Board. The procedure includes:
(1) Receive notification that the manuscript has been received, confirming the publication option and applicable fee;
(2) Make a bank transfer according to the Journal's payment information;
(3) Send proof of payment through the system or by email to the Journal;
(4) The Editorial Board confirms completion of the financial obligation and proceeds with publication.
7.1.3. Payment Method
+ Method: Bank transfer.
+ Transfer description: Corresponding author's full name – Article processing fee (standard/fast-track).
+ Account receiving the article processing fee: Journal of Community Medicine: 0861100688668, Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank, Ba Dinh Branch, Hanoi.
7.1.4. Waiver, Reduction, and Refund Policy
The Journal may consider waiving or reducing fees in certain special circumstances (for example: doctoral students or postgraduate students with financial difficulties; articles concerning social welfare or support for vulnerable groups without funding; or official scientific cooperation programs with the Journal).
Fees already paid will not be refunded once an article has been accepted and entered the publication process; exceptional cases resulting from errors on the part of the Journal will be considered in accordance with internal regulations.
7.1.5. Journal Commitment
The Journal of Community Medicine commits to managing revenue and expenditure in accordance with applicable laws, maintaining financial transparency and academic integrity, and not charging any fees other than those officially published.
VIII. Manuscript Processing Procedure
The Journal's manuscript processing procedure consists of a series of rigorous steps to ensure double-blind peer review, objectivity, and scientific quality before publication.
Step 1. Manuscript Submission
Authors submit the manuscript with all required documents in accordance with the Journal's guidelines (Author Declaration, full manuscript with author information, and blind manuscript).
Step 2. Preliminary Editorial Screening
The Editorial Board conducts an initial assessment of the manuscript's scope, article type, structure, formatting, and publication ethics requirements.
• If the manuscript does not meet the requirements or is outside the Journal's aims and scope, it will be rejected.
• If the manuscript does not fully meet the requirements but is considered potentially suitable for revision, the Editorial Board will notify the authors to complete and resubmit it.
• If the manuscript is appropriate and meets the requirements, it will enter the formal processing procedure.
Step 3. Article Processing Fee and First Round of Peer Review
A manuscript that meets the eligibility requirements proceeds to processing and is sent to at least two independent reviewers under a double-blind peer-review process. Reviewers evaluate the manuscript and provide comments, recommendations for revision, or a recommendation not to revise.
Step 4. Author Revision in Response to Peer Review
• If revisions are required, the authors revise the manuscript and resubmit it together with a detailed response letter.
• If the authors do not revise the manuscript or fail to meet the requirements, processing may be discontinued.
Step 5. Editorial Decision
The Editorial Board reviews the revised manuscript and peer-review comments and makes one of the following decisions:
• Accept for publication;
• Request a second round of peer review (when necessary);
• Or reject if the manuscript does not meet scientific requirements.
Step 6. Second Round of Peer Review (if applicable)
When necessary, the manuscript is sent for additional peer review to assess the extent to which the revisions have addressed the reviewers' comments before the final decision is made.
Step 7. Post-Acceptance Editing
An accepted manuscript undergoes typesetting, language editing, stylistic editing, and formatting in accordance with the Journal's standards.
Step 8. Final Approval by the Editor-in-Chief
The Editor-in-Chief (Deputy Editor-in-Chief) reviews and approves the completed manuscript before publication.
Step 9. Publication, Distribution, and Archiving
The article is officially published (in print and/or electronic form), distributed according to the publication schedule, and archived in the Journal's system.
Step 1. Manuscript Submission
Authors submit the manuscript with all required documents in accordance with the Journal's guidelines (Author Declaration, full manuscript with author information, and blind manuscript).
Step 2. Preliminary Editorial Screening
The Editorial Board conducts an initial assessment of the manuscript's scope, article type, structure, formatting, and publication ethics requirements.
• If the manuscript does not meet the requirements or is outside the Journal's aims and scope, it will be rejected.
• If the manuscript does not fully meet the requirements but is considered potentially suitable for revision, the Editorial Board will notify the authors to complete and resubmit it.
• If the manuscript is appropriate and meets the requirements, it will enter the formal processing procedure.
Step 3. Article Processing Fee and First Round of Peer Review
A manuscript that meets the eligibility requirements proceeds to processing and is sent to at least two independent reviewers under a double-blind peer-review process. Reviewers evaluate the manuscript and provide comments, recommendations for revision, or a recommendation not to revise.
Step 4. Author Revision in Response to Peer Review
• If revisions are required, the authors revise the manuscript and resubmit it together with a detailed response letter.
• If the authors do not revise the manuscript or fail to meet the requirements, processing may be discontinued.
Step 5. Editorial Decision
The Editorial Board reviews the revised manuscript and peer-review comments and makes one of the following decisions:
• Accept for publication;
• Request a second round of peer review (when necessary);
• Or reject if the manuscript does not meet scientific requirements.
Step 6. Second Round of Peer Review (if applicable)
When necessary, the manuscript is sent for additional peer review to assess the extent to which the revisions have addressed the reviewers' comments before the final decision is made.
Step 7. Post-Acceptance Editing
An accepted manuscript undergoes typesetting, language editing, stylistic editing, and formatting in accordance with the Journal's standards.
Step 8. Final Approval by the Editor-in-Chief
The Editor-in-Chief (Deputy Editor-in-Chief) reviews and approves the completed manuscript before publication.
Step 9. Publication, Distribution, and Archiving
The article is officially published (in print and/or electronic form), distributed according to the publication schedule, and archived in the Journal's system.