Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Medical Transcriptionist

Each Thursday, I highlight a work-from-home job opportunity.

Position: Medical Transcriptionist


Education: Proper training in medical coding and transcriptions required, usually through an approved American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT) school. Visit the AAMT website for a list.

Skills: The ability to master the complex coding and transcriptions of the medical field.

Job outlook: The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that job opportunities for this field will be good for those certified in medical transcriptions. “Employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to grow by 11 percent from 2008 to 2018, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for medical transcription services will continue to be spurred by a growing and aging population,” according to the BLS. Check out the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for more details.

Possible employers: The BLS found that around 36 percent of medical transcriptionists worked in hospitals and that 23 percent worked in doctor’s offices. “Others worked for business support services; medical and diagnostic laboratories; outpatient care centers; offices of physical, occupational, and speech therapists; and offices of audiologists,” according to the BLS.

Preparation: You will need to brush up on your medical transcription skills if you have been out of the workplace for a while. Take a refresher course. Become a Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) or a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT).

Get your foot in the door: Check out local physician offices and hospitals to see about work-from-home opportunities. Offer to do an hour’s work for free.

Until next time,
 
Sarah