Getting Your First Medical Transcription Job

The question I get asked most often is "how do I find my first job as a medical transcriptionist?" This is one of the most difficult challenges a new MT has to face. Of course, everyone wants someone experienced as most health care providers do not have the time or personnel to train a new MT.

More transcription companies are starting to hire beginning MTs but it can still be a nerve wracking process. I have listed below a few ways to get started finding that first job.

1. Visiting the MT forums such as MT Desk will bring you in contact with many new MTs and many experienced MTs. They are now or have been in your same position. They can help guide you to the companies that are hiring new MTs. Start your networking early and get to know the MTs at the forums.

2. I got my first MT job during my last weeks of medical transcription school just by answering an ad in the newspaper. I got an interview and didn't do too well on transcribing the actual doctor's dictations but I got the job because I was familiar with the medical terminology and could spell the medical terms. So check your newspaper and you might get that first job right away as I did.

3. Sending letters to your local clinics and hospitals could also pay off in a job offer. Sometimes the smaller clinics are more willing to hire new MTs as they may have more time to help train you. Sometimes you will have to work in-house for awhile until you are experienced enough to work at home alone.

4. You can mention to your own doctor that you are now a medical transcriptionist and that give you a chance to give him some of your business cards that he could pass on to other doctors and your doctor might be willing to give you a chance if he is in need of a transcriptionist.

These are just a few of the things you can do to get started as an MT. Everyone had to get that first job, even the most experienced MTs.

Please read my article about medical transcription here and visit my medical transcription squidoo for more information on medical transcription.

Marilyn Roberts
Medical Transcriptionist