Medical Transcriptionists
Medical transcriptionists provide transcribed documents to hospitals, physicians, or other healthcare professionals. These documents include physical exam reports, patient history, autopsy reports, consultation reports, or referral letters. Transcription is typically done by listening to a recording. The recording is paused using a foot pedal when necessary. Text is entered into a word processor or personal computer and edited for grammar and clarity. Documents are then sent back to the healthcare professional for signature or correction.
Medical Transcription Training Schools
Medical Billing and Coding Schools
Specifics of the Job
Medical transcriptionists often refer to medical reference materials to identify medical jargon and terminology. The Internet is a useful source as are printed materials. They are required to have a basic understanding of anatomy, medical terminology, pharmacology, and treatment procedures. They will also need to be familiar with standard formatting styles for documents. Those with extensive experience are able to find inconsistencies in medical reports and correct them. This leads to improved patient care. Use of the Internet has grown very popular for transcriptionists. Healthcare professionals send digital or analog transcriptions through the Internet. Transcriptionists are then able to return the transcribed documents quickly and efficiently. Many have begun to use speech recognition technology. This allows speech to be translated electronically into text. As technology advances, this will become more prevalent. Medical transcriptionists sometimes work in doctors’ offices. In addition to transcribing documents, they may handle other office duties like answering phones, scheduling patients, and welcoming patients. Others work in hospitals or for transcription services. A growing number of individuals are self-employed working out of their homes.
Necessary Qualifications
A large number of vocational schools, community colleges, and e-distance learning colleges offer programs in medical transcription. A one-year certification program or a two-year associate degree program is available. Course work usually includes anatomy, medical terminology, legal issues, and English grammar. Some programs offer on-the-job training, as well. Employers prefer candidates with educational experience. Voluntary certification is available through the American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT). Individuals must pass the written and practical exams to earn a certificate. Re-certification is necessary every three years. Transcriptionists are also encouraged to pursue continuing education to stay abreast of new medical terminology. In addition to excellent grammar and punctuation, candidates should have strong hearing and listening skills. They must also be proficient with computer technology.
Earnings and Advancement
Earnings range between $9.00 and $18.00 an hour. Compensation methods vary. Some are paid by the hour while others are paid by the number of lines transcribed. Many transcriptionists are paid a base wage plus incentives. Those who are self-employed often work part-time hours. Advancement comes in various forms. Some move into supervisory roles. Others branch out on their own. Some medical transcriptionists become teachers in community colleges or vocational schools.
*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Medical Transcriptionists.
This article may not be copied, used, or reproduced.
copyright 2005
|
|
|
|