The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has issued an apology for an opinion piece published in the SA Medical Journal by former editor Dr Bridget Farham – who subsequently resigned – in which she referenced a submission by a doctor which she would not publish.
SAMA’s statement said the views and opinions expressed by the editor in editorial in March 2024 (Vol 114 No 3) are those of the individual author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the association or the journal.
In its apology, SAMA said: "Our association remains committed to promoting evidence-based practices and upholding the highest standards of medical ethics. We believe in fostering a diverse range of opinions and scientific discussions that are constructive and based on factual research.
"We respect editorial independence and the academic freedom of contributors to the journal. However, these principles do not absolve editors and authors from accountability and criticism.
SAMA thanks the editor for her eight years of service and wishes her well in her future endeavours."
Professor Ames Dhai has been appointed acting editor until a new editor is appointed.
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