How to Become a Medical Transcriptionist

There are many ways to get training for a career as a medical transcriptionist.  Unfortunately, there are many people who choose to becomes a transcriptionist without having any real knowledge of what is involved in the job.  It isn't enough that you are "good with words," or are a "fast typer" or "have been a nurse for 20 years."

To be a successful medical transcriptionist, first and foremost you need real training.  I don't mean training on how to use transcription software - I mean training in how to think and act like a transcriptionist.  The mechanics of transcribing can be taught in a couple of weeks, but thinking like a transcriptionist takes time. 

The very first thing is to find a reliable, established transcription training program.  Career Step's transcription program has been around for a long time.  It is an online program.  Their graduates are sometimes considered for first-time jobs by companies because employers are often familiar with the curriculum and know that you have, at the very least, learned the main things you need to know to jump in the pool and start learning specifics that you need to put your book learning to work.  

Another well-respected online school is The Andrews School.  Again, they have been around quite a while and have a good reputation for turning out students who know the basics and are ready to put their skills to work with on-the-job learning.  

However, the best thing you can do to start off your career is to find a local certificate program at your community college or vocational school.  In many cases, it takes longer and it has to be done on-site (although schools are increasingly using distance learning modules), but having an instructor handy to answer  questions and give you advice from the perspective of a veteran transcriptionist is invaluable.

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