Medical transcription is one of the booming fields of healthcare sector. A medical transcriptionist converts the medical records dictated by a doctor into written text. In today’s virtual world, working from home is an easy task and medical transcription companies do hire people who prefer to work from home.  Medical transcription from home is very convenient as it doesn’t require the transcriptionist to work in a regular 9 AM-5 PM slot. As far as the transcriptionist finishes the job within the time frame, it is good enough. This job can also be done as a part time job or a second job for those who need a little extra money to cover their expenses.

Medical transcription, also known as MT, is the process by which the dictation given by the doctor about the patient’s medical record is converted into written text. The professional who does this job is known as medical transcriptionist. They cover a majority of jobs in the health care sector. Most of the medical transcriptionists work in the hospital. But they are also hired by medical labs and diagnostic research labs, outpatient care facilities, and speech and occupational therapy centers. They can even work from home by telecommuting.

Medical transcription is one of the home based jobs which can earn a good salary. The equipments required are a computer, a head phone and foot pedal to pause the verbal record. The tool what they use to transcribe is termed as transcriber. So the job of a transcriptionist involves listening to the verbal dictation, correct the grammar as required and convert it into a written text, which will ultimately becomes patient’s permanent file. The documents they prepare include discharge summery, medical history, reference details and details of surgical operations. The doctor, who dictated, reviews the document for any changes or mistakes involved.  Finally, these documents are included in patient’s medical records. The general skills required are good verbal and written communication, an interest in the medical field and fast typing.

The job of a medical transcriptionist is to prepare a document of patient’s medical records, which can be used by a doctor in the future. These documents include medical history, tests, diagnosis, treatments, surgical procedures, autopsy reports and referral letters. To successfully do all these, a transcriptionist should be well versed in medical terminologies, anatomy, physiology and pharmacology. They also should be good at keyboarding and listening to the details. A strong listening power is needed as they have to listen to the audio files using an earphone. A good command over the English grammar and punctuation is very essential.

Medical transcription does not require any formal education. But medical terms are hard to understand if not learned before. Health care facilities prefer those who are experienced or certified to do their transcription job. So it is always better to get a certified degree or associate degree in medical transcription before seeking a job in this field. There are many training centers and technologies are available to help those who want to learn medical transcription. They also help to get placement in a company upon successful completion of the course.

Since medical transcriptionist’s job does not involve much movement, this can cause health problems such as back pain, wrist injury, shoulder pain and eye problems. So, sitting posture is very important for a transcriptionist.

Anyone who enjoys working from home and earn a respectable income, medical transcription can be a good choice. They usually earn $15-$20 per hour, depending on which facility they work in.  Their pay also depends on the number of hours worked and lines they type. With the advance in the medical documentation technology, the requirement for transcriptionist is very high. Especially, professionals who are certified have a good scope. Unlike other courses, medical transcription course neither require a college degree nor a huge fund to get certified. Most of the courses can be done being at home.

Medical transcription is not for everyone. But if someone loves to work in the medical field and enjoys the convenience of working from home, medical transcription is definitely the one to be considered.