Medical transcriptionists create accurate,
clear medical documentation
for patient histories, exam notes,
operative reports, and other purposes.
They listen to recordings
made by healthcare workers…
and convert them into written reports…
and also take documents generated by doctors
using speech recognition technology,
and closely edit them.
Identifying errors, inconsistencies,
and missing information is crucial
to ensuring patient care isn’t compromised.
Transcriptionists translate medical jargon
and abbreviations
and must understand
complex medical terminology.
They may enter their reports
into electronic health records systems
or submit them directly to physicians
for approval.
Those who work in doctors’ offices
may answer phones
and greet patients as well.
Most medical transcriptionists
work full time,
though part-time schedules are not uncommon.
They work for hospitals, doctor’s offices,
and transcription service companies.
Some work from home,
with more flexible schedules
than in typical offices.
Reports must be completed accurately
and under deadlines,
which can make the work stressful.
Most transcriptionists have completed
either a one-year certificate program,
or an associate’s degree
in medical transcription.
Coursework includes anatomy, terminology,
risk management, legal issues,
and English grammar.
Many programs include
supervised on-the-job experience.