[The profile of evaluators of a medical publication in relation to the response].

INTRODUCTION

The expert is essential in the external evaluation process and for this reason it is necessary to know the profile and characteristics of the best evaluators.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We have retrospectively analysed the external review process of the journal from the 1st of January 2005 until the 30th of June 2009, with the aim of knowing the profile of the experts in relation to the response to the requests. The response rate, mean delay time and responder rate were evaluated, using, sex, age and forming part of the editorial committee as variables.

RESULTS

The response rate fell as the number of evaluations increased. Women had a higher response rate, lower delay time and better performance than males. The response rate showed a tendency to decrease with age and the large majority of responders were between 29 and 39 years. Being a member of the journal committees was not associated with a better response rate, although there was less delay. The response rate and the delay time are similar, although it may increase with the number of requests to a reviewer.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower age and being female are associated with a better response. No fatigue effect was observed in good responders, but if there is a fall in the response rates the number of evaluators should be increased.