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Francisco Esteva: Article processing charges remain one of the most pressing issues of open-access publishing

Francisco J. Esteva/LinkedIn

Jan 5, 2025, 17:17

Francisco Esteva: Article processing charges remain one of the most pressing issues of open-access publishing

Francisco Esteva, Chief of the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Lenox Hill Hospital, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Article processing charges remain one of the most pressing issues of open-access publishing.

The financial burden is problematic for many researchers, especially those in low-income regions or without significant funding.

The publishing fees can be prohibitively expensive. This model risks excluding talented individuals from contributing to scientific discourse simply because they cannot afford to pay. While some initiatives offer reduced fees, they often fail to address the systemic barriers that persist.

Additionally, reliance on Article processing charges can create a disparity in published research. Institutions with larger budgets can publish more frequently in prestigious journals. In contrast, those with limited resources struggle to gain recognition. This leads to an uneven playing field where only a select few voices are amplified.

The stigma around open-access publishing can also deter researchers. Concerns about journal reputability often lead to hesitation. Many choose traditional publishing routes that may not be as accessible. This perception hinders the widespread adoption of open access and entrenches existing inequalities.

In summary, while open-access publishing has great potential, financial barriers must be addressed. Without action, we risk favoring wealth over merit, stifling innovation and diversity in scientific research. We must advocate for solutions that ensure equitable access for all researchers, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Have you published an open-access article recently? What’s your experience?”

Francisco Esteva: Article processing charges remain one of the most pressing issues of open-access publishing

M0re posts featuring Francisco Esteva.

Dr. Francisco Javier Esteva is the Chief of the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Lenox Hill Hospital and a Professor of Medicine at the Zucker School of Medicine. He also serves as the Director of Breast Cancer Translational Research at Northwell Health.

Before joining Northwell, he was a Research Professor at the NYU School of Medicine and Vice President of Clinical Development at Cellectis. Dr. Esteva prioritizes patient-centered care by ensuring patients are fully informed about their pathology, staging, molecular tests, and treatment options, fostering collaborative decision-making.