Hello,

I'm wondering if anyone can share information about inexpensive (less than $1000) digital or tape call-in options.

I am a one-person operation with no plans of hiring employees. I have a couple accounts that require me to pick up tapes. Both accounts are currently willing to switch to some sort of set up that will not require me to pick up the tapes, but I'm not sure which route to take. There are a lot of options, and my head is ready to explode.

Specifically, I'm looking at the Martel call-in tape equipment, Spantel (an online company that acts as the digital call-in site), VoiceWave from Boston Bar, and Bytescribe Talk and Type.

I just want to be able to get the dictation to my computer (or, in Martel's case, to my Martel answering machine) without spending a fortune.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Hi. I was also thinking about doing what you want to do, and looked into the Martel's System. The only downfall from that is, first Dr.'s cannot rewind to listen to their dictation, and second (most important)did not want to "babysit" my machine at home. I have a small P/T business at home also just a few clients, and currently use microcassete tapes via pick up and delivery. There's also the issue of adding telephone lines to your home, if more then one MD dictates, you should be able to accomodate if another MD dictates as well, which means you need more telephone lines. Overall I figured, if you only have a few clients it's really not worth it unless you plan to pick up more...just my thoughts, anyhow. Good luck!!!!

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Aloha & Mahalo from Hawaii...csm

Hi,

Another option you might consider is "renting" space from a service who has a digital system in place. I have heard of mid-sized companies who do this. I think you pay them for each minute of dictation. In that case you would only have to have a C-phone (around $500)and a phone line, or you could possibly have them send the dictation to a secure web site to be downloaded to your hard drive and with special software you could use your hard drive as a transcriber.

As you can tell, I know just enough to be dangerous!

Good luck!

kkb

Thank you both for your opinions. I'm leaning toward Martel, but not totally sure yet. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee, so I should just go ahead and try it and see.

I'll post again when I have decided, and will check back to see if anyone else has any opinions/guidance.