AHEC Connecticut
HEALTH INFORMATION & COMMUNICATIONS - Medical Transcriptionist
To be a successful Medical Transcriptionist you should...
- be knowledgeable of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
- understand medicolegal implications and responsibility related to the transcription of patient records
- have an excellent knowledge of English language rules and be especially good at spelling and proofreading
- be able to translate oral information into well organized, accurate typed statements
- have excellent listening skills, including the ability to
- hear and understand dialects and various accents
Click here to download video.
What will my job be like?
A medical transcriptionist listens to a tape-recorded summary about a patient, types what is heard, and then places the information in the client’s permanent record. This transcription provides a clear, concise, written record that must contain correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Transcriptionists use computers and word processors to complete many medical documents, including medical histories, physicals, consultations, and operative reports. They record procedures and treatments for the medical record and for the practitioner’s reference.
Where could I work?
Medical transcriptionists work primarily in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, transcription services, insurance companies, and home health care agencies. Many MTs work in their homes as independent contractors or subcontractors, and more and more as home-based employees.
What is the average annual salary?
$31,200
What is the future of this career?
Job opportunities will be good. Employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow faster than average for all occupations through 2014. Demand for medical transcription services will be spurred by a growing and aging population.
What type of education and/or training do I need?
Classroom and clinical experience lasts from nine months for a certificate up to two years for an associate degree.
Where can I get the education and/or training?
- Briarwood College, Southington
- Capital Community College, Hartford
- Danbury Hospital School of Medical Records, Danbury
- Manchester Community College, Manchester
- Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Winsted
- Tunxis Community College, Farmington
Do I need a license or certification for this career?
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
Where can I get more information?
American Association for Medical Transcription
3460 Oakdale Road, Suite M
Modesto, CA 95357-6187
(800) 982-2182
www.aamt.org