Before you decide to become a medical transcriptionist, it is important you understand the pros and cons of the profession. Don’t get carried away by the benefits of the job without looking at its challenges. Talk to established medical transcriptionists to find out what the job is like.
Once you have decided that the profession suits you, find out if you suit the job. Find out if you have the aptitude for becoming a medical transcriptionist. You should possess the following attributes:
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Good hearing
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Excellent command over English
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Commitment to deadlines
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Willingness to learn on a regular basis
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Ability to work without supervision
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Ability to research
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Computer proficiency
Remember that you cannot pull off the work if you are not fit for the job. Once you have figured out that you can handle it, start looking for a good medical transcription course. You may also find some good courses online. However, make sure that the school you join meets the following criteria:
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Conformance to the COMPRO (competency profile for medical transcription education) guidelines
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Availability of sufficient hours of authentic dictation
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Provision of job assistance after course completion
On completion of your course, you should have a good medical transcription job or assignment in your hands. This is why we insist on going for a course that provides job assistance. However, assistance does not always translate into a job. Therefore, start looking for opportunities even before your course ends. Submit your resume on the websites of medical transcription companies and keep looking for new job opportunities.