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A medical transcriptionist interprets, edits and transcribes medical dictation from
physicians and other healthcare professionals. Medical dictations are notes about a
patient?s medical conditions, diagnosis, procedures and treatment and are in the
form of voice recordings. A transcriptionist listens to the voice recording and
then translates the oral comments into accurate, organized, and precise written
(typed) statements. Medical transcriptionists must be masters of documentation,
typing, and medical terminology. Errors in a transcribed report could be life
threatening to the patient if the physician treats the patient with information
that is incorrect. Medical transcriptionists often work in hospitals, physician
offices, clinics, insurance companies, laboratories, etc. Transcriptionists may
also be self-employed and work from their homes.
Medical Transcriptionists can specialize in specific medical fields such as
radiology (Radiology Transcriptionist), pathology/laboratory (Pathology/Laboratory
Transcriptionist) or cardiovascular (Cardiovascular Transcriptionist).
In terms of education, this position requires a minimum of a high school diploma or
GED. Most employers prefer and/or require medical transcriptionists to be certified
through a nationally recognized agency. Individuals can become certified by passing
a national examination given by the
American Association for
Medical Transcription. It is recommended that an individual prepare for the
certification examination either through a formal educational program or adequate
work experience, or a combination of both. Most colleges and universities offer
various programs and/or courses such as anatomy & physiology and medical
terminology, that would help prepare individuals for the examination. Please visit
the above listed website to learn more about medical transcription as a career.
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