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Is There a Medical Transcriptionist in the House?

By Craig Friesen
Learning & Life Columnist
April 23, 2007

Medical transcription is a vital part of the necessary record-keeping process that ensures patients' health and safety. With the right education, you can succeed as a medical transcriptionist--and you can even study online.

What Does a Medical Transcriptionist Do?

A medical transcriptionist takes dictation or receives shorthand notes from physicians, lab technicians, and other health care professionals. Your job is to put these notes and ideas into your patients' medical records. You'll need to have a sharp eye and ear for detail, to avoid inconsistencies and errors. If there is any confusion, it would be your responsibility to obtain clarification so that the medical records are accurate.

What Do Medical Transcription Courses Involve?

Many medical transcriptionists study for their certification or degree online. The convenience, affordability, and flexibility of online courses have made them popular. Medical transcription coursework can include:

• Anatomy
• Medical terminology
• Medical law
• Physiology
• Pharmacology

What Are the Working Conditions for Medical Transcriptionists?

As a medical transcriptionist, you can go to work in comfortable and stable environment--maybe even your living room. While hospitals still employ about 40% of all medical transcriptionists, a growing number of them do freelance or contract work from their homes. If you work in a medical facility, your hours can be regular, with little chance of overtime, evening, or weekend work. If you choose to freelance from home, you'll be able to tailor your workload and complete it on your own schedule.

Additionally, you may seek certification through the American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT). As a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT), you'll be better able to command quality transcriptionist jobs.

With a passion for healthcare and an eye for detail, you can find a bright future as a medical transcriptionist.

Source:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Medical Transcriptionists"

About the Author
Craig Friesen is a freelance writer living in Abbotsford, British Columbia. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from University of Manitoba and a Master of Divinity degree from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Indiana.

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