Medical Transcriptionist Job Description and Top Skills

What is a Medical Transcriptionist?

A Medical Transcriptionist is responsible for converting voice-recorded medical reports into written texts, including patient histories, physical examination findings, diagnostic test results, surgical procedures, and treatment plans. Medical Transcriptionists play a critical role in maintaining accurate medical records, facilitating communication between healthcare providers, and ensuring the quality and continuity of patient care.

Medical Transcriptionist Job Description

Are you detail-oriented and proficient in medical terminology? We’re seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Medical Transcriptionists. As vital members of our healthcare organization, successful candidates will play a crucial role in accurately transcribing medical dictations and ensuring the integrity of patient records.

As a Medical Transcriptionist, you will have the opportunity to work remotely or in healthcare facilities, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to document patient encounters and contribute to the delivery of high-quality healthcare services.

The ideal candidate will possess strong typing skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of medical terminology and documentation standards.

What Does a Medical Transcriptionist Do?

Transcription of Medical Dictations:

Listen to voice recordings of medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, and specialists, and transcribe dictations accurately into written reports using word processing software and specialized transcription equipment.

Understanding Medical Terminology:

Demonstrate proficiency in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic procedures to accurately transcribe medical reports, interpret abbreviations, and ensure the clarity and accuracy of transcribed documents.

Maintaining Document Format and Style:

Follow formatting guidelines, style preferences, and documentation standards established by healthcare facilities, regulatory agencies, and professional associations to maintain consistency and uniformity in medical records and reports.

Ensuring Confidentiality and Security:

Adhere to privacy regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and maintain strict confidentiality and security measures to protect patient information and comply with legal and ethical standards.

Editing and Proofreading:

Review transcribed documents for accuracy, completeness, and clarity, and edit or proofread as needed to correct errors, clarify ambiguous information, and ensure the integrity and reliability of medical records.

Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:

Communicate effectively with healthcare providers to clarify dictations, resolve discrepancies, and obtain additional information as needed to ensure accurate and comprehensive documentation of patient encounters and medical procedures.

Meeting Deadlines and Productivity Targets:

Manage workload efficiently, prioritize tasks, and meet transcription deadlines and productivity targets set by supervisors or clients to ensure timely delivery of transcribed documents and support the workflow of healthcare facilities.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development:

Stay informed about changes in medical terminology, technology, and documentation practices, participate in training programs and professional development activities, and seek opportunities to enhance transcription skills and knowledge.

How Much Do Medical Transcriptionists Make?

The median annual salary for Medical Transcriptionists in the United States is $39,000. Entry-level positions typically start at $32,175 per year, while experienced practitioners can earn as much as $52,952 annually.

Skill Requirements

Typing Speed and Accuracy: Medical Transcriptionists must possess fast and accurate typing skills, typically ranging from 50 to 80 words per minute (WPM), to transcribe dictations efficiently and maintain productivity.
Knowledge of Medical Terminology: Medical Transcriptionists should have a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and healthcare procedures to accurately transcribe medical reports and interpret complex medical terms and abbreviations.
Attention to Detail: Medical Transcriptionists must demonstrate keen attention to detail in transcribing dictations, editing documents, and proofreading reports to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness in medical records.
Computer Proficiency: Medical Transcriptionists should be proficient in using word processing software, transcription tools, and electronic health record (EHR) systems to transcribe dictations, format documents, and navigate healthcare databases effectively.
Listening and Comprehension Skills: Medical Transcriptionists must have strong listening and comprehension skills to understand and accurately transcribe spoken medical dictations, including diverse accents, speech patterns, and medical terminology.
Time Management and Organization: Medical Transcriptionists should possess excellent time management and organizational skills to manage workload, meet transcription deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Example KPIs for a Medical Transcriptionist

Transcription Accuracy Rate: This KPI measures the percentage of accurately transcribed medical reports compared to total transcripts produced, assessing the quality and reliability of transcription work and adherence to documentation standards.
Turnaround Time for Transcriptions: This KPI tracks the time taken to transcribe and deliver medical reports from dictation to completion, evaluating efficiency, productivity, and responsiveness in meeting turnaround expectations.
Customer Satisfaction and Feedback: This KPI evaluates customer satisfaction levels and feedback from healthcare providers, including physicians, nurses, and administrative staff, regarding the accuracy, timeliness, and professionalism of transcription services.
Productivity and Volume of Transcriptions: This KPI measures the volume of transcribed documents produced within a specific timeframe, assessing productivity levels and workload management capabilities of Medical Transcriptionists.

How Can Glider AI Help You with Hiring a Medical Transcriptionist?

Glider’s recruitment platform is designed to streamline the hiring process for Medical Transcriptionists by prioritizing competency over credentials. Utilize Glider AI Skill Intelligence™ to identify top-quality candidates, assess typing speed and accuracy, and ensure a mobile-first, candidate-friendly experience.