Passing the Torch

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There is probably no greater honor in one’s profession, or burden of responsibility, than to take the helm of a great journal. In this inaugural editorial I have to admit to mixed emotions. To step in as editor as a result of the premature passing of a great colleague, Dr. Marty Resnick, who dedicated his life to this journal, is heartrending. To be named editor when other extremely talented colleagues could ably assume this role is daunting. And to follow the legacy of previous giants in the field of urology is humbling.

Taking over as editor of The Journal of Urology® is not unlike remodeling a great manor house. One maintains the basic foundation, yet instills personal touches that hopefully increase value and provide modern amenities. Adding to this challenge is the knowledge that the future of many printed journals is uncertain. Fiscal constraints, open access and increased competition challenge the foundations on which they were created.

At this juncture it is appropriate and I daresay probably expected that a new editor articulate a vision for a journal. My personal vision is that The Journal of Urology serves as the glue that holds our profession together during this time of rapid changes in health care and molecular medicine. The major ingredient of this glue is quality, which depends on content that in turn relies on the diligent work and dedication of our editorial board, staff and reviewers. In this regard I am extremely fortunate.

My vision must be a shared vision. This journal should function as the platform to disseminate information relevant to those practicing or needing knowledge of the art and science of genitourinary medicine around the world. Urology cannot be insular. Our profession and its journals must encourage those engaged in the best clinical and fundamental research whether within urology or from related disciplines to publish their best work in a journal whose audience can best use this knowledge. In a flat world this or any medical journal should not just represent 1 organization, profession or country. The editorial board and articles should reflect this reality.

Continuous quality improvement (CQI) is a term commonly used in business. However, the definition of quality varies depending on perspective. For authors CQI means rigorous standards, impact factors, rapid submission and review processes, and timely communication. For reviewers, mechanisms to ease the burden of voluntary professional work equates with CQI. Although for the vast readership, quality means reliable and timely information, presented in the most readable form, whether in print or on-line, that facilitates care for patients, informs urologists on the latest professional news, provides educational materials and pushes the frontiers of research. In other words, incremental changes to this journal will be substantive and cosmetic.

This journal’s previous editors have all left their imprint and raised the bar. The torch has been passed once again. To paraphrase an often misattributed quote from a 1905 poem¹ —all we can do in our lives and profession is hope to leave either a person or institution better than we find it. Marty Resnick accomplished this as editor of The Journal of Urology, as did his predecessors. Perhaps, with the advice and help of colleagues I can be so fortunate.

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Reference 

1. Bessie AS: What Constitutes Success: a $250 Prize Story by a Lincoln Woman. In: Lincoln Sentinel, Nov. 30, 1905 (archived by Bill and Diana Sowers on Lincoln County, Kansas Genealogy & History website (http://skyways.lib.ks.us/genweb/lincoln/success.htm). Accessed October 29, 2007.
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