Academic Programs
Medical Transcription
Program Options
- Certificate Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Medical Transcriptionist do?
A Medical Transcriptionist (MT) is a medical language specialist who interprets and transcribes dictation by physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient assessment, workup, therapeutic procedures, clinical course, diagnosis, prognosis, etc., editing dictated material for grammar and clarity, as necessary and appropriate.
What characteristics do I need to become a Medical Transcriptionist?
You must have excellent English language skills, as well as a strong interest in the medical language. You must have good hearing acuity and listening ability. You must have versatility in use of transcription equipment and computers as a transcriptionist may work in a variety of settings.
Where do Medical Transcriptionists work?
Medical Transcriptionists work in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, transcription services, insurance companies, and home healthcare agencies. Many Medical Transcriptionists work in their homes as independent contractors or subcontractors, and some are home-based employees.
What is the American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT)?
AAMT is the membership organization for the Medical Transcription profession.
Where can I learn Medical Transcription?
Classes for Medical Transcription are offered at Schoolcraft College - Radcliff, located in Garden City. The one-year, certificate program includes a total of 34 contact hours. This program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.
Why should I become a certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT)?
Certification serves the public interest by assuring that those who become certified have met accepted standards of practice. Many employers prefer to hire CMTs. While you are not required to become a CMT In order to work as a Medical Transcriptionist, earning the credential demonstrates to employers and peers that you are a professional, committed to being the best you can be.
How will speech recognition technology affect the future of Medical Transcription?
In spite of the advances in this technology, it has been difficult for the computer to grasp and analyze the human voice as well as the English language with all its diversity. There will continue to be a need for skilled medical language specialists who expand their education, and have the knowledge to identify, and edit, the inevitable errors created by speech recognition systems, and who have enough understanding of the health record to create a final document. Medical Transcriptionists will remain the best qualified to discern the nuances for the human voice-indeed, the ultimate voice processors.
Can I do Medical Transcription at home?
AAMT recommends that a beginning Medical Transcriptionist, work for at least two years in a healthcare facility or under supervision, in a medical transcription service, before attempting to transcribe at home. The home transcriptionist must have an excellent knowledge of the medical language, as well as the English language, and be willing to make a substantial investment in medical reference materials and equipment. Only those who provide the highest quality transcription are likely to be successful. We caution you that the IRS has many specific regulations about home businesses and independent contractors: be sure to seek the advice of a qualified attorney and/or tax advisor.
Why do I need further training if I already know medical terminology?
If you are prepared with the requisite keyboard skills, additional courses you need include Medical Transcription itself and on-the-job training. You do have a good start, but there's more to it than medical knowledge and keyboard skills.
Does AAMT have a professional journal?
Members of AAMT receive the bimonthly, award winning, Journal of the American Association for Medical Transcription (JAAMT), which contains articles and advertisements for interest to Medical Transcription professionals. JAAMT also reports AAMT activities and advocacy efforts carried out in support of MTs everywhere. You can join AAMT as a student member upon written verification of your enrollment in a Medical Transcription Program.
What software will I need?
Many health care facilities utilize Microsoft Word and WordPerfect.
How fast do I need to type as an entry-level Medical Transcriptionist?
After completing the program, most health care facilities require a minimum of 50 words per minute. Your speed will increase with on-the-job training.
How much money will I earn as a Medical Transcriptionist?
Earnings vary considerably according to the area in which you live. A 1997 study of AAMT members showed an annual gross salary over $35,000 (24%), $25,000 to $35,000 (34%), under $25,000 (42%).
Does Schoolcraft College offer a part-time schedule to complete the program?
Yes, a student can develop a schedule to complete the program on a part-time basis. It is recommended you read the catalog to determine prerequisites and you make an appointment with counseling, prior to registering for classes.
How do I enroll in the Medical Transcription Program?
Contact the Admissions & Enrollment Center to start the admission process to Schoolcraft College.
Professional Affiliations
- American Association for Medical Transcription
Related Websites
Medical Assisting Program Office
Radcliff Center, room RC475Department Head: Patricia A. Rubio, RHIA
Secretary: Theresa Krawczyk
Telephone: (734) 462-4400 ext. 6007
Fax: (734) 462-4775
Monday - Thursday, 9am - 4pm