H index, journal citation indicator, and other impact factors in neurosurgical publications - Is there a ‘cost factor’ that determines the quality?

Our analysis indicates that larger costs incurred for open access fees and subscription costs for personal use are not clearly reflected upon the journals' performance and this is quantified by utilising various indices. There appears to be a strong association within performance across the journals' metrics. It would be beneficial to include learning about the bibliometric indices' impact for research publications in the medical education training to maximise the quality of the scientific work produced and increase the visibility of the information produced. The potential full movement to OA exclusive journals would form a significant barrier for junior researchers, small institutions, or full time-trainee doctors with limited funding available. This study suggests the need for a robust measurement of the journals' output and the quality of the work produced.