What is medical transcription?

Medical transcription is the process of listening to what a healthcare provider dictates in a recorder and typing it into a text editor or word processing application, such as Word. The completed transcript is then included in the medical record for a patient. Healthcare providers reference medical records to obtain medical and social history, medication list, allergies, drug reactions, laboratory data, treatment plans and other information necessary to provide continuity of care.

Preparing for a medical transcription career

Certain basic skills are required if you plan on becoming a medical transcriptions. Obviously, good hearing is essential - this is not a job path for anyone who has difficulty with hearing. An excellent command of the English language is also essential. And, because most positions are production pay, a fast and accurate typing speed is required.

It isn't advisable to attempt to become a medical transcriptions without formal training. A good school program has ties in the medical transcription community and placement arrangements with employers.

Finding a job

Tips for finding a job in medical transcription apply even for those with experience.

Find a job board that allows you to enter your resume and/or upload a resume file for employers to peruse. Our experience at MT Registry is that most employers will search the resume bank before they post a job. If they find what they're looking for, they don't need to post the job for public review. This allows them to target their specific requirements better and reduce the amount of applications they get from people who don't meet their qualifications. The job board should allow you, the applicant, to take your resume offline when you're not actively searching; this will prevent employers from contact you when you aren't interested. A good job board will also have private features for some of your personal information so your current employer won't know you're searching for a new job. Employers must contact you through the job board and you can determine whether or not you wish to respond.

When reviewing jobs that are posted by employers, be sure to read the job specifics carefully. Do not apply for jobs when you don't meet the qualifications posted. There's a reason employers list minimum requirements! If you repeatedly apply for a job, your name will be remembered - and not in a good way. Also, some employers prefer that applicants apply through their own web site. Do not contact them through the job board or by e-mail or fax or telephone. Again, this creates a negative first impression. When applying for a job, follow the instructions posted by the employer.

It's also important to keep track of jobs you have applied for, any e-mails, interviews or discussions, and the outcome of the application. We had an applicant who would send us e-mails: "Have I applied for a job with you before? I can't remember." If we had responded to this, we would've advised the MT that yes indeed - she applied with us every time we posted a job anywhere! We also would have reminded her that she did not pass our screening test. This person was wasting our time, over and over and over again. If you want to reapply for a job, make sure you state the reasons why this time things will be different; i.e., you took some classes to improve your knowledge, you have more experience, etc.

There is a shortage of qualified medical transcriptions. Make sure you go about your job search in a way that will leave a favorable impression and grant you the best chance for success!