What does a Medical Scribe do?

Medical scribes are professionals who document medical interactions and transcribe information during medical appointments, generally in real time. They retrieve and prepare patient records for physicians before appointments and procedures. They accompany doctors on rounds and appointments to accurately transcribe notes, observations, instructions, and other vital information. They compile and process orders for tests, procedures, and other treatments. Their role is limited to observation and documentation, as they do not perform any medical treatment and generally have minimal (if any) direct interaction with patients.

Medical scribes have a high school diploma, although additional education or training is preferred by some employers. They commonly have experience working as a medical clerk or administrative assistant. A broad familiarity with medical terminology and procedures is helpful. These roles require an understanding of HIPAA regulations and a commitment to protecting the privacy of patient information.