Medical Transcription Schools

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Medical Transcription Diploma Programs

Medical transcription diploma programs offer a relatively quick, affordable way to gain the background education needed to become a medical transcriptionist, without the need for prior postsecondary education.

Compared with certificate programs, which are designed to supplement an existing degree, or associate’s degrees, which take around two years to complete, medical transcription diplomas are a fast and accessible credential. Most medical transcription diplomas can be earned in around nine months to a year.

What to Expect in a Medical Transcription Diploma Program

The two most important skills needed to perform the job duties of medical transcription are typing and computer skills, and a strong understanding of medical terminology and procedures. Medical transcription diploma programs emphasize these skills through lecture-based courses and hands-on transcription training.

A few of the classes you might take in a medical transcription diploma program are:

  • Medical Terminology
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Medical Transcription Basics
  • Medical Field Overviews
  • Writing and Documentation Style
  • Medical Office Management
  • Medical Transcription Technologies

For example, Ashworth College devotes much of its six-month diploma program to overviews of human body systems, and various fields of medicine such as oncology, dermatology and pulmonary medicine. In the one-year medical transcription diploma program at Dakota College, students learn writing skills, healthcare law, and several areas of medicine from a medical transcription perspective, along with an intro to speech recognition technology.

How to Choose a Medical Transcription Diploma Program

There are a few factors to consider when choosing to pursue a medical transcription diploma. First, is a diploma the right credential?

  • Compared to a degree, a diploma is less expensive and shorter in length, making it a better choice for those who do not have the time and resources to dedicate to a longer program.
  • Compared to a certificate, diplomas require less prior education, making them better for recent high school graduates or those without postsecondary education.

Next, it pays to know what to look for in a medical transcription diploma program. Here are a few things that separate good programs from others:

  • Rounded Education. To prepare students to be effective medical transcriptionists, good diploma programs should cover a wide range of subjects including medical topics, writing and composition, computer skills, office management skills, and emerging transcription technology.
  • Career Services. Many diploma programs offer services such as resume assistance, job interview coaching, or career placement.
  • Online Access. Many medical transcription diploma programs are delivered online, which offers several benefits. Some of these include:
    • The ability to learn from home
    • Saving money on commuting expenses
    • Extra time to take care of kids or work

Other Medical Transcription Diploma Programs

These other reputable programs may or may not be currently enrolling.

Ashworth College
Medical Transcription
Diploma
Online

Medical Technology Education Center
NexGen Speech Recognition Editing and Medical Transcription
Diploma
Online

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