What does a Medical Transcriptionist do?
Medical transcriptionists are responsible for listening to voice recordings that physicians and other healthcare professionals make and convert them into written reports. They also review and edit medical documents created using speech recognition technology. Additionally, medical transcriptionists interpret medical terminology and abbreviations in preparing patients' medical histories, discharge summaries, and other documents. Medical transcriptionists typically work in hospitals and offices of physicians.
A high school diploma along with a certification in medical transcriptionist (CMT) is required for this role. Successful medical transcriptionists possess strong computer skills and excellent listening skills.
- Transcribe medical reports, summaries, office visit notes and other medical documents from recorded messages from health care providers
- Provide online copies of transcribed documents to physicians or other providers for review and signature, making corrections or changes as noted
- Familiarity with proper grammar, spelling and sentence structure as well as medical jargon and abbreviations for accuracy
- Receive patients, schedule appointments, and maintain patient records
- Work with transcription equipment that can include speech recognition equipment, word processing, and computer software
- Maintain strict adherence to patient confidentiality according to provider standards and government regulations
- Review transcription documents for quality assurance and precision to spot and correct any errors that could impact patient care and medical liability
- Create templates and enter data into electronic health record (EHR) systems for updated record keeping and archives
- Proficiency with EHR, Microsoft Office and speech recognition software
- Previous experience in hospital or other health care setting
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Certification in medical transcription (CMT)
- Strong critical thinking skills
- Ability to work and thrive in pressure situations
- Punctual and reliable disposition
- Superb listening and time management skills
- Able to type 90 WPM
How much does a Medical Transcriptionist make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$72,759
/ yrMedical Transcriptionist Career Path
Learn how to become a Medical Transcriptionist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Average Years of Experience
Medical Transcriptionist Insights
Rev“I had a great time at Rev. Great quality files mist of the time and decent pay.”
Allegis Transcription“employed is because they don't give you any benefits or pay any taxes on you.”
Abbott“Excellent pay for a service related lab although I was probably near or at the top at the time.”
Videoplus Transcription Services“I have been with this company nearly 5 years and everyone is supportive when it comes to asking questions and helping when I am stuck.”
“Pay was good and depending”
Command Health“This is by far the best!! Everyone is helpful and pleasant.”
SyncScript“Steady work and the sound quality was reasonably decent most of the time.”
Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals“Secure job and my consultant is lovely.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Medical Transcriptionist
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Medical Language Specialist
- Medical Technologist
- Laboratory Technologist