Online Medical Transcription Courses

Many medical transcriptionists telecommute from home-based offices, while others work in medical facilities such as hospitals, physicians' offices, or clinics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, facilities prefer to hire transcriptionists who have earned associate's degrees or completed certificate programs.

These degrees and certificates can be completed online. Online programs offer courses in anatomy, medical terminology, as well as English grammar and punctuation. For those already holding degrees, online refresher courses can keep transcriptionists updated and affirm their competence with the evolving world of medicine.

Quick Facts: Medical Transcription

Placement rate: 93%
Length of program: 1 year for a certificate, 2 years for an associate's degree.
Career path: medical transcriptionist, supervisor, instructor
Typical courses you will take: medical terminology, anatomy, physiology
Median hourly earnings: $14.00 per hour.

Medical Transcription: A Challenging Career

The need for medical transcriptionists is growing rapidly and the need for certified workers is expected to keep pace with that growth throughout the next 10 years. An aging population means more medical services will be provided, and increased sharing of medical information will be required. Medical transcriptionists take taped medical records from providers and transcribe the details into an electronic file. The job requires strong English grammar and punctuation skills as well as an ability to learn complex medical terminology.

Perfectly Suited to Distance Learning

Learning medical transcription can be a relatively solitary form of education. You will spend a lot of time learning medical terminology, along with human anatomy and physiology. Online courses can be completed in your free time, with no need to schedule time off from your job. Continuing education classes can also be completed online; this ensures you can keep abreast of the most current information available.