How To Become A Medical Transcriptionist

Medical transcription is used to keep medical records in an accurate and legible fashion. Healthcare professionals may dictate all medical information related to a patient in a voice recorder. Medical transcriptionists then help to convert the recorded information into a typed document, which is sent back to the dictator for review and signatures. These typed documents become the part of a patient's permanent record, and this record is usually based on medical treatments, procedures, and diagnostic tests.

Medical Transcriptionist Job Description
The following are the main tasks performed by medical transcriptionists:

• Listen to dictated recordings from healthcare professionals by using a headset
• Convert the recordings into reports and correspondence using a word processor or computer
• Edit grammatical errors while documenting the recordings
• Carry out administrative duties such as attending calls, checking in patients, and scheduling appointments

How To Become A Medical Transcriptionist?
Medical transcriptionists are not required to have a degree. However, employers prefer transcriptionists who have attended postsecondary education institutions. Training for medical transcriptionist may be offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and online programs from accredited universities. Many medical transcriptionists benefit from a one year certificate program or an associate's degree in medical transcription. Medical transcriptionists need to have an understanding of medical terminology in order to convert the voice recordings into the typed documents. Students of medical transcription study courses in human anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, legal issues related to healthcare documentation, and English.

Online Education
Online education is a good option for medical transcriptionists. Students are able to study at home, and students may set their own pace. Students will get help from instructors through online bulletin boards, emails, or video conferencing. Online courses are convenient and easier to get started in, as both travelling costs and time are saved. Students may also save money because most course material is available online, so they will not have to buy textbooks or other materials. It is also a good option for those looking to change their profession; they may take online course without having to quit their full-time jobs.

Skills
There are certain skills that are essential to perform well as a medical transcriptionist:

• Excellent spelling, grammar, and punctuation
• Ability to stay focused for long periods
• Good listening skills
• Attention to detail
• Fast typing skills
• Ability to adapt new technology quickly
• Research skills
• Understanding of different languages and accents

Work Environment
Medical transcriptionists may work in a number of settings. They have the option to work in doctors' offices, third party transcription service providers, and hospitals. Some medical transcriptionists also choose to be self-employed. Transcriptionists could work from their home offices by receiving dictation and sending drafts electronically.

Career Outlook and Salary
The employment opportunities for the medical transcriptionists will grow at a rate of six percent between 2010 and 2020. Around 5,600 new jobs are expected for medical transcriptionists during the years 2010 and 2020. The median annual pay for medical transcriptionists was $32,900 in May 2010. The median hourly pay for medical transcriptionists was $15.82 in 2010.