Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo on Scientific Publishing, Peer Review, and the Future of Medical Journals

In this episode of The Future of Medicine, we welcome Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, PhD, MD, MAS, physician, epidemiologist, and Editor-in-Chief of JAMA, whose work sits at the center of how today’s most influential medical research is evaluated, communicated, and translated into practice.Dr. Bibbins-Domingo takes us inside the high-stakes world of scientific publishing, exploring how editors weigh evidence, interpret peer review, and decide when research is strong enough to move the field forward. She explains why “no scientific study is perfect,” and what that reality means for clinicians, researchers, and the public.In this conversation, Dr. Bibbins-Domingo reflects on her journey from basic science to population health and editorial leadership. She discusses how journals are adapting in an era of information overload and AI, why context and communication matter more than ever, and how scientific editors think about balancing rigor, risk, and real-world impact.Looking ahead, Dr. Bibbins-Domingo shares her perspective on the future of medical publishing, and why reaching people where they are will be essential to maintaining trust in science and advancing patient care.As part of our ongoing series from Stanford’s Department of Medicine, bringing together leaders shaping the future of healthcare, this episode offers a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look at how medical evidence moves from manuscript to medicine.Thank you for listening!Call to action: If you enjoy The Future of Medicine, subscribe for more conversations with leading scientists shaping the next era of healthcare. Please rate and review the podcast to help others discover these important discussions. Share with friends and colleagues who are curious about how science becomes medicine.