Mapping the Evolution of Digital Health Research: Bibliometric Overview of Research Hotspots, Trends, and Collaboration of Publications in JMIR (1999-2024)

Abstract

BackgroundWhile bibliometric studies of individual journals have been conducted, to the best of our knowledge, bibliometric mapping has not yet been utilized to analyze the literature published by the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR). ObjectiveIn celebration of the journal’s 25th anniversary, this study aimed to review the entire collection of JMIR publications from 1999 to 2024 and provide a comprehensive overview of the main publication characteristics. MethodsThis study included papers published in JMIR during the 25-year period from 1999 to 2024. The data were analyzed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the “Bibliometrix” package in R. Through descriptive bibliometrics, we examined the dynamics and trend patterns of JMIR literature production and identified the most prolific authors, papers, institutions, and countries. Bibliometric maps were used to visualize the content of published articles and to identify the most prominent research terms and topics, along with their evolution. A bibliometric network map was constructed to determine the hot research topics over the past 25 years. ResultsThis study revealed positive trends in literature production, with both the total number of publications and the average number of citations increasing over the years. And the global COVID-19 pandemic induced an explosive rise in the number of publications in JMIR. The most productive institutions were predominantly from the United States, which ranked highest in successful publications within the journal. The editor-in-chief of JMIR was identified as a pioneer in this field. The thematic analysis indicated that the most prolific topics aligned with the primary aims and scope of the journal. Currently and in the foreseeable future, the main themes of JMIR include “artificial intelligence,” “patient empowerment,” and “victimization.” ConclusionsThis bibliometric study highlighted significant contributions to digital health by identifying key research trends, themes, influential authors, and collaborations. The findings underscore the necessity to enhance publications from developing countries, improve gender diversity among authors, and expand the range of research topics explored in the journal.