Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a slight decline in medical transcriptionist employment by the year 2032, it is still a decent industry to pursue. The minor decline is due to offices outsourcing work and improvements of voice-recognition software.
The industry still needs transcriptionists, however, and as medical transcriptionists retire, there will be a need for new industry professionals. The 2023 average annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $38,220, and the field only takes a year, on average, to break into.
What Medical Transcriptionists Do
Medical transcriptionists are health professionals who convert voice-recorded reports into a text format. The profession has existed since the early 20th century, when manual typewriters were used. Typewriters evolved from manual to electronic, and then transcriptionists began using word processors. Now, medical transcriptionists use computer software to convert reports to a text or a digital format.
It's your job to edit the reports dictated by doctors into an electronic format and create files that represent the treatment history of each patient. Your responsibilities include:
- Transcribing recorded dictations accurately
- Backing up records and reports as required for safety
- Creating quality reports using computer software and other tools
How To Become One
Education and training as a medical transcriptionist can be obtained through certificate or diploma programs, training on the job, and online learning. Most people choose the one-year certificate, though you do have the option of a two-year associate degree.
Is This Your Future?
Medical transcriptionists are important. You ensure accurate medical documentation for both patients and doctors; you help the flow of information between doctors; you provide medical records and instructions to nurses; and you ensure proper record keeping in hospitals and other health centers. Without the profession, many errors could happen. Talk to a school near you about the program!
