The Medical Transcriptionist option is designed to meet the high demands for well-trained medical transcriptionists regionally and nationally. The option provides modern equipment and current software with courses to prepare students for work in a variety of health care facilities and private medical transcription companies. Medical transcription companies offer at-home employment opportunities; usually these follow work experience and are mainly full time. Experienced workers may become independent contractors or move into supervisory positions. Medical transcriptionists must practice standards of ethics, including confidentiality which is demanded and upheld by the law.
Medical transcriptionists operate computers and word processing equipment to transcribe physician dictation for permanent records on patients. A medical transcriptionist must have knowledge of medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures. Other skill characteristics common among successful medical transcriptionists include, but are not limited to: strong English language and grammar skills; spelling, proofreading, and listening skills; ability to enjoy independent, sedentary computer work; and enjoy reading. Other helpful characteristics are: high motivation; well organized; work well with minimal supervision; and effective time manager.
While students are employable at the completion of this program option, they may choose to use it as a “stepping stone” into an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree as a Medical Administrative Assistant.
http://www.ndscs.nodak.edu/distance_ed/medtrans.htm
