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Work From Home as a Medical Transcriptionist

A medical transcriptionist transcribes medical reports that are dictated by a doctor or medical professional. Reports may include, but are not limited to, physical and psychological evaluations, clinical notes, laboratory findings, operative details, consultation notes, and letters.

Dictation is usually received by means of a recorded tape, digital system, or voice file. A transcriptionist carefully listens to the recordings and keys the text into a computer or word processing program, and at the same time, edits the information for clarity. The completed document is then returned to the doctor or medical professional as a written record of medical history.

Many transcriptionists work in medical facilities, libraries, or laboratories, but recent improvements in online technology and security have led to an increase in the number of transcriptionists who work from home. Because medical professionals can now transmit files safely and quickly over the Internet, it is no longer necessary for those who dictate the recordings to work on site. The result is a dramatic increase in telecommuting and overseas contracting.

Medical transcriptionists who work from home may still be employed through a company or transcription service, or they may be self-employed. Self-employed medical transcriptionists often have the benefit of making their own hours and they are also known to make more money according to the U.S. Department of Labor (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos271.htm). Transcribing documents from home can be a wonderful opportunity for the right person.

To work from home as a medical transcriptionist, you must be self-motivated and able to work independently and quickly, as a fast turn around is often expected. You must also have the same skills and training as someone who works on site, including good language and listening skills, typing abilities, and a knowledge of medical terminology. Because fact checking is often required, proficiency in Internet research, along with a small selection of medical dictionaries will also be helpful.

Medical transcriptionists who work from home will find that the Internet is a valuable resource, offering opportunities to network with others through email, forums, and state boards. Locating jobs and potential clients has also become easier due to the number of websites devoted specifically to this purpose.

Training to become a medical transcriptionist can be obtained through vocational schools, community colleges, and distance learning programs. Completion of a training or certification program may make it easier to find work, but it is not completely necessary. The American Association of Medical Transcriptionists (AAMT) offers a voluntary certification exam to those who wish to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT). The CMT credential is awarded to someone when they pass the written and practical examination that is administered through AAMT.

Now may be a good time to break into the medical transcriptionist field. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow faster than the average occupation through the year 2012. The demand will be a direct result of the growing and aging population. This demand should continue to supply many job opportunities for medical transcriptionists, including those who work from home.