How to Become a Medical Transcriptionist

Medical transcription (MT) is a booming career option in recent times. An individual who does the work of medical transcription is called a medical transcriptionist. Majority of the medical transcriptionists get good job opportunities, either in hospitals or private clinics of physicians. Others work in diagnostic centers, medical laboratories, outpatient care units and other business marketing services. It is expected that hospitals and private clinics will continue to hire medical transcriptionists in the near future.

Medical Transcriptionist: Work Profile

The job profile of a medical transcriptionist is to listen to voice recordings made by physicians or other healthcare specialists and transcribe them into a text format. The recordings can be physical examination, medical history, diagnostic results, operative reports, referral notes or any other patient related reports. The medical transcriptionist hears to these dictated recordings carefully through a headset and type them on computers or other word processors.

Once the recorded data is transcribed into the text format, the medical transcriptionist goes through the text for any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes. After editing the necessary changes, the transcribed text format is returned to the concern physician or healthcare specialist, who then checks and signs the document. This document is referred as permanent file for the patient. This way, medical transcriptionist helps in maintaining the files and provides quality health care to patients.

Becoming a Medical Transcriptionist

If you have a passion for science subject and prefer working in the medical field, then medical transcription is a good option. Though there are no mandatory formal educations for becoming a medical transcriptionist, it is advisable to follow certain steps for getting good job opportunities. In order to become a medical transcriptionist, first you have to complete your high school diploma or qualify GED.

After getting high school diploma, you can join a training program in medical transcription, either a one-year certification program or two-year associate's degree. These courses are offered in community colleges, vocational or proprietary schools and other distance learning programs. Before finalizing the school or college, check for any company incorporation and placement records. The course structure includes medical terminologies, anatomy, physiology, legal issues with reference to medical documentation, grammar and punctuation.

In addition to medical transcription program, you should have good auditory, computer and writing skills. Another optional yet recommended exam for becoming a medical transcriptionist is the national level certification exam. If you earn the title of certification, then you will get better career opportunities in the reputed hospitals and clinics. You are also required to give re-certification exam once in every 3 years.

Some of the employers and/or firms provide on the job training for medical transcription. In such a case, you can apply for the post even without completing a medical transcription training program. However, most of the employers prefer those who have completed postsecondary training programs in medical transcription. Hence, it is highly recommended to opt for the training courses in medical transcription and medical terminologies.

Medical Transcriptionist: Overview

A plus point of getting into medical transcription is work flexibility in terms of space and time. You can work from home based offices in flexible hours at your own comfort zone. The expected salary of medical transcriptionist varies depending upon the education level, training, experience, location and employer. Nevertheless, if you have a good academic background with relevant experience in the field, then the average salary may be $40,000 or higher. Speaking about the job growth of medical transcription, it is not so fast as in other growing industries.