Medical transcriptionists listen to audiotapes dictated by medical professionals and transcribe spoken words to written text. These reports are checked by the dictators for accuracy and then become a permanent part of a patient's file. Transcriptionists must know medical terminology along with industry abbreviations, such as "HENT" for "head, ears, nose, and throat," for example.
Previously, transcriptionists would be hired to work at a desk in an office area where they put on earphones and typed what they heard, the faster the better. Nowadays, however, some transcriptionists are choosing to work from home to obtain more flexible hours and to balance household duties with a professional job.
Working from home brings a differing set of obligations and advantages. Here are some to keep in mind if you are thinking about working from home as a medical transcriptionist:
1. Advertise your skills. Find out how fast you type and at what rate of accuracy. Promote this information to prospective clients. You can do this on the Internet by visiting job search sites or posting your own Website to attract potential business. Include testimonials from previous employers, along with rate information and contact details. List any certifications or professional memberships that you have.
2. Solicit clients from Web postings or the yellow pages. Get in touch to let companies know that you are available to work from home on a flexible schedule. Treat your clients well so they will build a trusting and loyal relationship with you, and continue to return with repeat business. Be prompt and courteous, just as you would in the public realm, when negotiating projects with your clients.
3. Continue to build and upgrade your skills. Take continuing education classes in pharmaceutical terminology, for example. Or enroll in a seminar where you can network with other medical professionals who may have need of your services. Try to increase your accuracy and your speed over time so that you can offer increasingly better services over your competitors.
4. Streamline your technology. You may need to have your computer fitted with audio play equipment for receiving or playing the transcription tapes. Lacking this, you will need to negotiate the drop off and pick up of the transcription, along with a date for having the reports completed and proofed. Plan for contingencies or emergencies: what will happen if your computer loses power during a report? What if a report is needed promptly but your equipment is acting up and needs to be serviced? You may need to write a small procedures policy to keep on hand for unexpected situations.
5. Maintain excellent records and files. This includes job descriptions, proposals, and billings, along with company contact information and copies of correspondence. Treat your business at least as well as you would in someone else's office. Use professional office supplies, follow through on project deadlines, and keep track of audiotapes that flow in and out so that none get lost.
Working in the comfort of your home can provide an added bonus to the freedom of becoming self-employed. Take good care of your customers to ensure they continue coming back to you and bringing others like them for your help.
