Medical Transcription Degrees
As a medical transcriptionist, you'll use a variety of tools, such as computers, medical software, and dictation programs that work in conjunction with audio equipment. Get the facts about training and degrees available for this career as well as certification options.
<h3 id="section---WhatDegreeOptionsAreAvailableToMe">What Degree Options are Available to Me?</h3>
<p>While all employers may not require it, training in medical transcription may increase your hiring potential and enhance your skills. Most training in this field is available as diploma or associate degree programs, which can be completed either online or in a classroom setting. Some programs may require passing a typing test before admittance and some may only admit a certain number of students per semester. Certificate programs can take up to a year to complete and associate degree programs usually take two years to complete.
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<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Levels</b></td><td>Certificate and associate</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Course Topics</b></td><td>Medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, audio transcription, medical office practices</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td>Voluntary exam that grants the titles of Registered Medical Transcriptionist or Certified Medical Transcriptionist</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Work Environment</b></td><td> Hospitals, clinics and doctor's offices, or from home as a freelancer</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $35,270 (<i>for all medical transcriptionists</i>) </td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 2% decline (<i>for all medical transcriptionists</i>) </td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---WhatWillIStudy">What Will I Study?</h3>
<p>Most associate degree programs include basic education courses, as well as courses specifically in medical transcription. You'll take coursework in English, proofreading, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology. You'll also learn how to use word processing and software applications used for medical transcription, as well as how to use applicable equipment, such as foot pedals and audio transcription devices.
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<p>Some degree programs will teach you how to improve your communication skills and train you in medical office practices, while others may require additional medically-focused courses, such as a behavioral or physical science. Some degree programs may require an internship that will pair your coursework with on-the-job training.
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<h3 id="section---IsCertificationOffered">Is Certification Offered?</h3>
<p>While certification for transcriptionists is voluntary, it may enhance your resume by indicating that you adhere to professional industry standards. One of the organizations that offer certification in this field is the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity. The organization offers Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) and Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) designations; both of which require passing a skills assessment examination. In order to keep your certification valid, you'll need to be periodically recertified and there may be additional training or professional development classes required.
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<h3 id="section---WhatDoesAMedicalTranscriptionJobInvolve">What Does a Medical Transcription Job Involve?</h3>
<p>Medical transcriptionists are responsible for transcribing medical dictations and compiling the information into reports and documents. You'll need to have a strong attention to detail and sharp editing skills, as well as the ability to type quickly and efficiently in order to succeed in this career. You will be in charge of adding notations on medical procedures and other information, such as discharge papers or surgical notes, into patient and hospital records. While completed work is typically reviewed, you will need to be precise in your transcription because the information can be vital to patient care and insurance billing.</p>