WHAT DOES AN MT DO?

         
Simply put, they type (transcribe) what the doctor or medical specialist dictates regarding patient examinations, workups, procedures, etc.  It is not an efficient use of the doctor's time to hand write notes on each individual patient, thus dictating a summary is the normal procedure.  

Most of my clients dictate using hand-held microcassette recorders, although digital hand-held recorders are increasing in popularity.  Both of these methods allow the medical provider the flexibility to "dictate on the go", from their office, car, home, etc. Telephone based dictation systems are also quite common, but the same skills are required of the transcriptionist despite the method by which the voice is delivered.  

Most doctors expect a 24 to 48 hour turnaround from the time their dictations are obtained by the transcriptionist and the transcript is returned.  This allows the information to get into the patient's chart for access by the doctor ASAP.  As patients are often seen in followup by the doctor within a short time, rapid return of transcripts is important.

The transcript of the doctor's dictation becomes part of the patient's confidential medical records, and remains in the chart at the doctor's office.  The doctor will refer to these notes at subsequent visits and thus relies heavily on their completeness and accuracy.  Very important stuff!

Transcriptionists work in doctors offices, hospitals, within large transcription service facilities, or as in my case, as self-employed independent contractors.  Working for yourself is perhaps the most challenging of all the above mentioned medical transcription opportunities.  It requires the highest level of determination, discipline, and dependability to do well.  The independent contractor must sharply hone his/her medical language skill, as under this situation he/she is working "without a net" when it comes to producing quality work without supervision.