What does a Medical Transcriptionist Do?

The words "medical transcription" sound a bit threathening because it sounds too technical for the common man. But with enough preparation, training and some experience, this job could be the best home-based career for almost anyone. The profession is very lucrative and is actually feasible for people who are home-bound due to affliction or by choice.

For those who want to earn a living but would rather just stay home, medical transcription is the best answer. For those who want a job that is not so difficult yet not unchallenging, this is perfect.

What does it take to be a home-based medical transcriptionist? To give you some idea, here are some things you need to know if you are interested in pursuing this career.

Medical transcription is when medical records are dictated by doctors through voice media and these records are transcribed swiftly and accurately by someone within the hospital or from the outside. Medical records include notes on history, office, clinic, surgeries, consultations, etc. Laboratory reports, pathology reports and discharge summaries are also other documents that can be described.

The transcriptionist receives the voice file by tape or digitally through the internet. Equipment includes a computer with modem and a foot pedal. Skills that a transcriptionist should master are listening, language and computer skills. A good knowledge on medical terminology is a necessity for this job.

Medical transcriptionists approximately earn 10 cents per 65-character line. For an experienced transcriptionist, 500-600 lines can be transcribed with one hour of dictation. Extra production can be converted to bonuses. On the average, the annual income in the US is more or less $ 27,100. There is no limit as to what a medical transcriptionist can earn. This all depends on the speed, the number of hours put in and the dedication of the transcriptionist.

With all these in mind, you must have been convinced to take this career seriously. You could do transcribing for extra cash or you could focus your whole attention to it. The opportunities, as of this time, are endless for a medical transcriptionist. You could be in any part of the world and still earn dollars! The saturation point for the industry is still far from now. This is the perfect time to venture and have a dip at this billion-dollar industry.