Hi! I am a student learning MT, and I would love to hear any good advice experienced MTs have for those of us just starting out! What would you say is the number one thing a new MT should know? Thanks so much, and have a wonderful Easter weekend!!

Hi Stephalinamay,

I would say one of the most important things a new MT should know before starting his/her training is proper grammar. I've seen MTs who have finished school and know their terminology quite well yet have run-on sentences, improper punctuation, and do not use nonmedical words correctly (sight, site, and cite come to mind). If you have grammar and punctuation down before you start your training you will definitely have an advantage and you won't have to learn grammar and punctuation at the same time as learning medical terminology.

How do you know if you need to brush up?? Well, there are lots of grammar tests on line--take some and see where you need work. Pick up a grammar book like the Gregg Reference Manual (there are lots of other good ones too--you should be able to buy a used one on eBay for around $12) and study it.

Just my opinion, of course--hopefully others will post with more great ideas!

Hi

Medical Transcriptionist is a person which deals in the process of transcription, or converting voice-recorded reports as dictated by physicians and/or other healthcare professionals, into text format.

You must remember following points:

* Knowledge of medical terminology.
* Above-average spelling, grammar, communication and memory skills.
* Ability to sort, check, count, and verify numbers with accuracy.
* Skill in the use and operation of basic office equipment/computer; eye/hand/foot coordination.
* Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
* Records maintenance skills or ability.
* Good to above-average typing skills.
*Knowledge of basic to advanced medical terminology is essential.
* Knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology.
* Knowledge of disease processes.
* Knowledge of Medical Style and Grammar.
* Average verbal communication skills.
* Above-average memory skills.
* Ability to sort, check, count, and verify numbers with accuracy.
* Demonstrated skill in the use and operation of basic office equipment/computer.
* Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
* Records maintenance skills or ability.
* Above-average typing skills.
* Knowledge and experience transcribing (from training or real report work) in the Basic Four work types.
* Knowledge of and proper application of grammar.
* Knowledge of and use of correct punctuation and capitalization rules.
* Demonstrated MT proficiencies in multiple report types and multiple specialties.

I think it will be beneficial for you to keep all these points in your mind while transcription.

Thanks