Thursday, May 17, 2007

Medical Transcription Certification

A lot of new medical transcriptionists believe that when they graduate from a medical transcription course that the certificate they receive for successfully completing the course makes them a CMT (certified medical transcriptionist). This is not true. Some of the eligibility requirements for becoming a CMT are:

You must have two years of actual medical transcription experience in acute care or the equivalent. Acute care includes ESL's (English as a second language), many different report types and all of the major and some of the minor specialties.

You will take the AAMT (American Association for Medical Transcription) CMT exam that consists of medical transcription knowledge and performance items. There are testing centers where you will go to take your test. Check with AAMT for their specific guidelines and fee for the testing.

Your certification is valid for three years. After that time you must recertify by paying a recertification fee and earning a minimum of 30 continuing education credits in the required categories.

Check with AAMT for more in depth eligibility requirements.

Becoming a CMT can sometimes bring you a larger rate of pay. It recognizes you as being an experienced and qualified professional in your field. It is a badge of honor for yourself and your accomplishments.

Marilyn Roberts
Medical Transcriptionist

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