Get Your Medical Transcription Degree

Medical transcription is the process of converting voice-recorded reports into text. Transcriptionists will listen to recordings made by physicians and create a document that accurately reports the patient's condition. In order to accurately transcribe the physicians' recordings into medical documents, medical transcriptionists must possess the following abilities:

To become a medical transcriptionist, you need your high school diploma or GED, and you need to complete a medical transcription program. Transcription programs can take as little as six months for a certificate, or two years if you choose to pursue an associate's degree. Programs are offered online or at schools across the country. Choosing the type of education that fits your learning style is important.

As an online medical transcription student, you need to be aware of the characteristics that will help make you successful in an online learning environment:

• Strong time-management skills
• Self-Motivated
• Willing to take responsibility and initiative

Like many other health care programs, your certificate or associate's degree in medical transcription will include a curriculum with an emphasis on classes in science and computer literacy. Some courses in a typical medical transcription program include:

• Anatomy
• Medical Terminology
• English grammar and punctuation
• Computer applications
• Pathology

In addition, some schools offer externships to their medical transcription students. Externships will allow you to gain valuable on-the-job experience while finishing your medical transcription degree.

If you're ready to take the first step, explore our directory of medical transcription schools, request information, and get started today.