Frequently Asked Questions

What is a medical transcriptionist?

A medical transcriptionist, also known as a medical language specialist, listens to dictated recordings made by physicians and other health care professionals and converts them into medical reports, correspondence and other documents used for patient care, billing and health care communications.  At the heart of being a medical transcriptionist is patient care, not paperwork.

Why enroll in the Texas Medical Transcription Institute?

Texas Medical Transcription Institute’s training program will prepare the student via online coursework for entry-level employment as a medical transcriptionist by providing the basic working knowledge skills required to transcribe healthcare dictation with accuracy, clarity, consistency, and timeliness, applying the principles of professional and ethical conduct.   The classes are in-depth, go above and beyond the recommended curriculum, and are taught by experienced, qualified instructors.

What are the requirements for enrollment?

Before a prospective student is enrolled in the Texas Medical Transcription Institute, an online application, an online entrance exam and a telephone interview must be completed.  A high-speed internet connection and a 32-bit PC is also required for the internship.

How much does the training cost?

$2,000, includes college-level textbooks, practice CDs, software, a foot pedal and a headset, as well as the RMT credentialing exam. Software required for the post-graduate internship will be provided once a student graduates. The $2,000 can be paid in three monthly installments. Similar training programs can cost $3,000 to $5,000.

How long does the training last?

The Texas Medical Transcription Institute’s online training program is self-paced; coursework can be finished within 6 to 18 months.

What are the benefits of a career as a medical transcriptionist?

Medical transcription is a challenging and rewarding occupation. The demand for medical transcriptionists is growing. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that opportunities for medical transcriptionists will jump 18 percent to 26 percent by 2014. Not only is the demand there, but being a credentialed medical transcriptionist (RMT—Registered Medical Transcriptionist, CMT—Certified Medical Transcriptionist) is becoming more of a factor in today’s healthcare industry.  Furthermore, medical transcriptionists can enjoy the comfort and flexibility of working from home.

How will I find a job as a medical transcriptionist?

Every graduate of the Texas Medical Transcription Institute receives a 3-month internship consisting of actual dictation spanning a variety of report types and specialties. Following the internship, a medical transcriptionist can work for a variety of employers, such as medical transcription services, hospitals and physician practices. About half of the Texas Medical Transcription Institute’s graduates work for sister company MTS of Texas, whose clients include hospitals and medical clinics.

How much money can I expect to earn as a medical transcriptionist?

A full-time medical transcriptionist can generate annual income of about $37,000 to $58,000.

How many hours a week will I work?

As many as you’d like. That’s one of the beauties of being a medical transcriptionist – you can work whenever and wherever you want.

Where will I work?

All medical transcriptionists at Medical Transcription Service of Texas are independent contractors who work from home. That’s why this career path is ideal for stay-at-home mothers, retirees, college students, military spouses and others.