Are open access article processing charges affordable for otolaryngologists in low-income and middle-income countries?

Abstract

Purpose of reviewOpen access articles are more frequently read and cited, and hence promote access to knowledge and new advances in healthcare. Unaffordability of open access article processing charges (APCs) may create a barrier to sharing research. We set out to assess the affordability of APCs and impact on publishing for otolaryngology trainees and otolaryngologists in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Recent findingsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted among otolaryngology trainees and otolaryngologists in LMICs globally. Seventy-nine participants from 21 LMICs participated in the study, with the majority from lower middle-income status (66%). Fifty-four percent were otolaryngology lecturers while 30% were trainees. Eighty-seven percent of participants received a gross monthly salary of less than USD 1500. Fifty-two percent of trainees did not receive a salary. Ninety-one percent and 96% of all study participants believed APCs limit publication in open access journals and influence choice of journal for publication, respectively. Eighty percent and 95% believed APCs hinder career progression and impede sharing of research that influences patient care, respectively.

The future of equitable science publishing

“…In some southern African countries where libraries cannot help cover costs, even the lowest APCs can exceed the monthly salary of the researchers submitting the work, rendering them unaffordable to most. 3 Although some publishers offer fee waiver systems for some low-resource countries, this does not fix the underlying issue of an unaffordable and potentially exploitative system.…”