Medical Transcriptionist

According to the American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT), there is a shortage of qualified transcriptionists. This job is in demand for two reasons. First, many insurance companies are requiring transcribed reports before they will pay doctors or hospitals. Second, transcribed copy provides health care professionals with the necessary documentation for review of patients’ history, legal evidence of patient care, data for research, or to render continuing patient care. Since turnaround time of transcription is a primary concern for health care providers, increase your competitiveness by offering pickup and delivery, sevenday-a-week service, same-day service, and phone-in dictation service.


As many as one or two years of education may be required if you have little or no experience. Computer hardware and software will run you anywhere from $1,900 to $5,000 and a transcriber unit from $200 to $800. Do not forget that this job requires hours of sitting in front of a computer; a good chair and a desk at the proper height are smart investments.


Medical transcribing can become somewhat monotonous. You must possess high levels of self-discipline and focus as you work. In addition, the demand for faster turnaround times occasionally necessitates working nights and weekends. On the other hand, medical transcription work is steady and resistant to recession! Th is field is still expanding; there’s always work for trained transcriptionists.


Approx. cost of start-up: $5,000 to $9,000


Approx. potential earnings: $60,000 to $80,000 (billing 2,000 hours a year)


Typical fees: $30 to $40 per hourr


Where to promote: Publications of local medical societies, direct mail, telemarketing, networking


Qualifications: Excellent listening skills; good hand/eye coordination; ability to use word processing, dictation and transcription equipment; understanding of medical diagnostic procedures and terminology; good typing skills; impeccable spelling; one or two years of higher education


Things needed:Computer, high-speed Internet access, transcriber, word-processing software, reference books, business cards, letterhead, envelopes


Required staff: No


Hidden costs:None