Medical Transcriptionist Job Description

Medical transcriptionists listen to recordings dictated by physicians and other health care professionals and transcribe them into medical reports, records, correspondence and other materials as needed. Documents include:

• Consultation reports
• Medical histories
• Medical examination reports
• Operative reports
• Autopsy reports

Working Conditions

Medical transcriptionists may work in public view or "behind the scenes" in close cooperation with office managers or directly with physicians. Offices usually are clean, well-lit and air conditioned. Medical secretaries usually work regular, set hours and, if working full-time, have established times to leave for lunch. Overtime is rarely required.

Some medical transcriptionists work at home and "commute" electronically.

A strong knowledge of medical and pharmaceutical terminology is critical for this position, one possible medical assistant career path.

Training

If you are interested in pursuing this job track, additional courses in Medical Transcriptionist Training are available online through Everest University.  

Job Prospects

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for medical secretaries is expected to be on part with most other profession for the 2010-2020 period. Between 2010 and 2020, employment growth for medical transcriptionists is projected to grow from 95,100 to 100,700, an increase of about 5,600, or 6 percent.* Job opportunities will naturally vary from city to city depending on demand and local economic conditions.

*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Medical Transcriptionists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-transcriptionists.htm (visited May 17, 2013).