Medical transcriptionists listen to recorded conversations from physicians and translate them into written reports.It is possible to work a medical transcription job.It's possible to work from home or from a structured office.The only requirements for becoming a medical transcriptionist are a high school degree and experience.Education beyond high school and certification training can make you more competitive.
Step 1: You can get a high school or GED.
The only requirement for becoming a medical transcriptionist is a high school diploma or GED.If you don't have a high school degree, you can take a test to get a GED.Before you can take the GED, you have to be at least sixteen years old.If you review the material before taking the test, you can take the GED without attending classes.Nearly every town offers GED classes, and there are many online resources.
Step 2: Do you have a good typing speed.
Most of your time as a medical transcriptionist will be spent listening to the doctors' notes.You have to be able to keep up with your typing speed.You don't need to be the fastest in the world.Forty-five words per minute will allow you to write quickly and accurately.You can use websites to test your typing speed.You can increase your speed by taking an online typing course.
Step 3: An associate degree or certificate in medical transcription can be obtained.
A high school education is all you need to become a medical transcriptionist.Further education in medical transcription will help you learn the terminology that is part of the job.It will give you an edge in the job market.The Association for healthcare documentation integrity has approved medical transcription programs.
Step 4: You can choose your credentials.
Getting credentialed will give you a competitive edge in the job market.There are two certifications for medical transcriptionists.Medical transcriptionists who are just starting out can get the certification.Two years of experience is required to earn the CHDS certification.The Association for healthcare documentation integrity offers both certifications.
Step 5: You must take the test.
The exams are offered at many centers in the United States.The test can be taken online.The exam will test your knowledge of medical terminology and English language skills.The CHDS exam will test your knowledge of medical terminology, as well as your ability to use professional reference materials.AHDI has preparation materials on their website.
Step 6: Work in a doctor's office
Medical transcriptionists are employed by hospitals, clinics, and physician's offices.Make a list of hospitals and physician's offices in your area and call them if you want to find a job.You can post jobs on websites such as Monster.com.If you work in a doctor's office, you may be responsible for scheduling appointments and answering phones.When you call a doctor's office, be professional.You could say, "I am a registered healthcare documentation specialist and I wanted to offer my services to your office."
Step 7: Someone is working in a third-party transcription service office.
Hospitals and physician's offices can provide third-party transcription services.They have a more traditional office atmosphere where you will work in a cubicle surrounded by other medical transcriptionists.You can work for a third-party transcription service if you like a structured nine-to-five environment.You will have to be at work for certain hours every day.There are websites where you can find job postings for transcription services.
Step 8: Work at home.
Many hospitals and physician's will allow you to work from home if you become a medical transcriptionist.You will be able to make your own hours with this option.You will need to purchase your own equipment to work from home.You need a good computer with an internet connection and a place to work.You don't have to lift your hands off the keyboard to start and stop the recordings with foot pedals.You can buy foot pedals online at stores like Amazon.com, or you can go to a store like OfficeMax.If you want to work from home, you should specify this when you call the doctor's office.You could say, "I'm a home-based medical transcriptionist and I want to add to my client list."
Step 9: If you want to apply for a position, you must do so.
You will need to apply for the job if you will be working in a physician's office, for a third-party transcription service, or from home.Most employers will ask for a copy of your resume, as well as proof of any training or certifications you have.Emphasizing skills from your previous jobs will make your resume more attractive to employers.If asked how your previous experience applies to the job of a medical transcriptionist, you might say, "I worked in customer service, where I spent a lot of time listening to people and typing notes on a computer."The multitasking required of a medical transcriptionist was prepared by this work.