| FAQ_Medical Transcription Certificate |
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What does a medical transcriptionist do? A medical transcriptionist transcribes (types) accurate reports dictated by physicians and other health care providers. These reports are a critical link in communications and documenting the care provided to patients. |
Where can I work with this certificate? Job opportunities exist in many hospital departments, ambulatory health centers, physicians' offices and transcription services. |
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Most transcriptionists start at between $13.00 - $16.00 an hour. Transcriptionists may also be paid by the total number of words or number of lines they type. |
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Although we cannot promise you a job, our students have found employment after completing the program. We do have a job board in our HIT lab and in Career Services. |
Do I have an interview before starting the Medical Transcription Certificate? No, but contact the HIT Advisorr for registration and sequencing of course information at asattler@oakton.edu |
Is there a time limit to completing the program? Because the health information technology field is dynamic and fast changing, frequent updates in the curriculum are required. To assure that students are current and prepared for employment HIT 104 Medical Terminology should be taken within 2 years of starting the program. |
What certifications are available after completing this program? After gaining work experience in medical transcription, a qualified transcriptionist may wish to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) by passing the certification examination administered by the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity formerly the Association of Medical Transcription (AAMT). For more information visit their website at http://www.adhionline.org |
Is there a practicum experience to the program? No. |
How can I find out more about this profession? The national organization for transcription professionals is the American Association of Medical Transcription (AAMT). For more information visit their website at http://www.aamt.org |
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The courses are offered in the evening on the Des Plaines campus only. An on-line section is in the process of being developed. |
| An excellent command of the medical language is vital to success in the transcription program. Medical terminology courses must not be more than two years old at the time the first limited enrollment course is begun. You may take a proficiency exam to place out of HIT 104. The exam is administered by the Testing Center on the Des Plaines campus. The Testing Center can be reached at 847-635-1939 for information. |
How long does it take to complete the certificate? It currently takes two semesters to complete the certificate. You must start in the fall semester and complete courses in the spring semester. |
How much time will I have to devote to the classes? It is estimated that the student will need from 2-3 hours per class per credit hour per week outside of class time for studying. Some students require more, others less. It is important that you plan class, study, family, work, travel, and social time carefully to balance conflicting responsibilities during your educational career. |
