On-line programs are usually cheaper and offer more flexibility than campus programs. A student may enroll at any time and work at her own pace--even while working at another job. Such programs often offer loans, and some even offer free tuition. It takes a year of full-time work to complete an on-campus program in medical transcription and attain certification and and two years to attain an associate's degree. The time it takes to complete on-line programs varies from school to school. Continuing education for professional medical transcriptionists is also available on-line.
Most on-line MT programs offer courses in medical vocabulary, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and other subjects. Many provide textbooks, CD-ROMs and foot pedals with their courses; provide exercises in medical specialties; and assign supplementary reading. Training often includes transcribing exercises in chart notes, initial patient-visit evaluations, operating reports, and diagnostic notes. English grammar and punctuation are usually included in MT programs.
An MT student should be a good typist, have strong listening abilities and possess good English skills. The potential to learn medical terminology and anatomy and physiology is important. A prospective medical transcriptionist should be comfortable with the process of using audio equipment to transcribe recorded information into text documents.
Not all schools that offer on-line MT programs are good; therefore, chose a school with care. Research each school on-line by comparing costs, faculty and materials offered for study. Talk to students who have attended a potential program; find out about their experience and whether they secured a job as a result of taking the program.
MT is one of the fastest growing fields according to experts at OnlineMedicalTranscription.net. High demand exists because health care is based on insurance, and to process claims, transcribed medical reports are essential. This need is expected to grow with an aging population that will require increased medical care. With regard to individual career growth, an experienced medical transcriptionist can become a supervisor and/or an instructor.
Salaries depend on whether a medical transcriptionist is working on staff or as freelancer, as well as on years of experience and level of skill. Geographical location is also a factor in salary. According to payscale.com, the salary range for a medical transcriptionist with 1 to 4 years of experience is $17,397 to $30,516; one with 20 or more years can make up to $40,629.