question

XP question [2008-09-16]
Hey, I had to get rid of my Vista for my job. Do you have the XP cd from your old computer? What I did was installed the XP onto my Vista laptop and removed Vista, but held onto the CDs in case Vista does ever become usable. If your not sure on how to do this, you may want to find a buddy that is tech-savvy or see if a local computer store will do it for a small price. It took me some trial and error to get mine going, and I'm not sure if it's the same on all computers. There are some websites that explain how to do this. I don't know about other companies, but I had to have XP, Vista just wouldn't work. Hope this helps!

school question [2008-07-05]
Christina, thank you so much for your reply. Birgit

Medical Transcription--Fundamentals CD question [2008-07-01]
Anyone with this book? I am on the pulmonary unittranscribing assignment number five and I can't FOR THE LIFE of ME understand what the heck this doctor is slurring....er .....saying. Anyone know? Help?

School question [2008-07-01]
Hello, I already have a certificate in transcription obtained from a community college but feel not prepared enough. I was thinking about taking the Andrew/M-Tec, or TRI course. How much time a day do you spend on course work? Is it really easy to find a job after graduating from one of the above listed schools? Do you feel isolated working from home? Any advice is really appreciated. Before I spend more money I really would like to have your opinion Thanks, Bee

WAV question [2008-06-12]
What does one need to type on an account that uses WAV? I'm not familiar with this... Thanks!

Allied/ Soon-to-be new graduate question [2008-06-06]
Has anyone had any experience with Allied? I am completing my training through them and although they have been very helpful, I have regretted my decision to go to school there (after reading numerous message boards, they simply are not the best school but it’s too late now!) Anyhow, I am looking for anyone who is currently going though OR graduated from Allied's MT program. I would love some helpful suggestions on how to get a job after graduation (the famous question!) Allied suggested that I pay 900 bucks to be placed in their lifetime career assistance program which assists you with your resume and helps you find a job. Does anyone think it's worth the $$$? Has anyone graduated from Allied and found a job? If so, please respond!! ANY SUGESTIONS from MT's would be greatly appreciated-I feel like I'm in the dark and don't want to make another bad decision!!! Thanks a bunch!

question [2008-05-23]
Hi Michelle - I'm trying to give advice to my future daughter-in-law, she wants to get into this business, and since you got a job, what school did you attend? THX!

question [2008-05-23]
I attended Allied Business School. I did all my study at home. They do have a professional developement option with the program, but I started my job search on my own. It is a little expensive, but well worth it!

In response to your question [2008-05-18]
They clearly are a SCAM. Don't be tempted to buy their equipment. They rip people off their money without providing them with real training and guaranteed employment.

question to your reply [2008-05-16]
Which schools are considered the better schools? I've been researching but keep getting conflicting info.

Another stupid question.... [2008-05-03]
So I am reading alot about testing on here. What does it mean to test for a company? My school hasn't told me anything about this....which means I'm probably not prepared...

Platform question [2008-04-22]
I am about to begin work with a new company and I am not quite sure what the platform is because we haven't gone over that yet, but I am just wondering if all platforms run with Microsoft Word. I just got the Stedman's SmartType and I am gonna be bummed if I can't use it. But generally, do most platforms use MS word?

DO YOU KNOW THIS QUESTION [2008-04-03]
***Edited by Moderator*** I am not sure if this is a test question. If it is, test questions are not allowed to be asked on this site. If it is not, please repost your question with a better description.

Is this a test question? [2008-04-03]
x

Thank you for clarifying this question :-) nm [2008-04-03]

Now that's what I call a response to a question! [2008-03-16]
Finally, someone who answers a question instead of nit-picking apart someone's question because they didn't use correct grammar or punctuation. Bravo to you for offering up some good, helpful advice!

Question about spheris company [2008-03-11]
Hello, I was wondering if all MTs that have worked for Spheris could give me some input on how they are as a company. Also if you like them or dislike them and why Thank you I start training with them on March 17th

If it was a specific question where it can be looked up, but it is a S/L. [2008-02-27]
Why is their aWordHelp Board if it is cheating to use it?The dictation test is hard. Any word that I would be given under the word board as S/L I do go back in and research to make sure that it is the correct word. But there are times when you cannot get the spelling close enough to find it and you have been researching for hours. Wouldn't QA get just as upset with always getting blanks because you are afraid to ask someone else. If I was in-house wouldn't I be able to ask someone to listen and find the answer also? But life is easier now that my Stedman's has finally come in. Newbies tend to not have all the resources they need when they first start. FYI usually open-book tests within the public schools have a specific answer they are looking for and they have been covering that very specific information for a week or two. At the college level open-book usually are take home tests. If you think for one minute that the members of that class are not having a study session that night with the test in hand, think again. JMO and from what I have seen in the schools.

question regarding.... [2008-02-26]
Patient is a 3-month-old x 32 and 6/7th week preemie, who is here today for followup of reflux. My question is regarding the x. Is the above sentence right?

Career Step question [2008-02-10]
Well, two years ago I was replaced by a computer (voice recognition) and I had worked up to 10 hr days and only had a day off once every six weeks, (if I was lucky). I worked for a very busy practice, at home, and I had to pick up and drop off the tapes and transcription 4 times a week. After 16 years, I was kinda burnt out and I thought I would see what else is out there, but my mind keeps going back to what I know, MT. I have sent my resume to many places to no avail, and the tests require all knowledge of MT, which I am lacking. I would like to take a course that would teach me ALL the fields, which I could probably get through very quickly, but I really need to know if Career Step would be worth it for me. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Career Step question [2008-02-09]
I have worked as a medical Transcriptionist for 16 years, but only in a few fields, mostly orthopedics. I would like to take a course so I can transcribe all fields and be hired by a reputable company. My question is, if I were to take the Career Step course, would I have more of a chance of getting hired, being that I do have that 16 years experience? I have heard good things about the other more expensive courses, but I cannot afford that.

specific test question [2008-01-31]
Libby, thanks for your response. It was encouraging, although I must admit I'm somewhat discouraged. I'm worked hard trying to learn, and I've been working equally as hard now trying to get a job as a medical transcriptionist. Can you tell me, on all of the MT tests, do they want you to transcribe exactly as dictated? For instance, if he says as one heading - COURSE IN THE HOSPITAL - Should I transcribe it exactly that way, or should I transcribe HOSPITAL COURSE? There are several other instances, can't remember exactly now...but one of the dictations had DISCHARGE MEDICATIONS dictated some longer way, but I transcribed it DISCHARGED MEDICATIONS: And that brings me to another point, when you list diagnoses or medications or whatever, does it matter which format you use....i.e. DIAGNOSES: 1) -------, 2) -----, 3) ----- etc, or DIAGNOSES and list them under the heading as 1. 2. etc?????? Any help you or anyone can give to me will be greatly appreciated. I really need and want to get to work asap. Thanks!

Reminds me of a story; and I have a question [2008-01-26]
A story I read many years ago in Readers' Digest was about a guy who tried to get hired to operate heavy equipment even though he had no experience. He lied, got a job and was fired the first day because it was obvious he didn't know anything. So he went to a similar company, stayed a few hours longer and was fired for the same reason. Third hire, he had enough experience from the first 2 that he kept on for decades. So, while not commenting on the merits of how you went about it, I do have a question: Did they figure out after you were hired you had no experience? Do you still work for them?

MT Student Has Question [2008-01-23]
Hi, I am a medical transcription student at Sinclair Community College in Ohio, and I am taking a business communications class that requires me to interview a medical transcriptionist. I don't know any MTs personally, so I was wondering if anyone here could possibly answer 10 questions for me. I would really appreciate it! Thanks in advance!! Here are the questions: 1. How long have you worked as a medical transcriptionist? 2. What certification have you received? 3. What attracted you to pursuing a career in medical transcription? 4. What type of environment do you work in (i.e. from home, physician’s office, hospital, other). 5. What do you think are the most important skills a medical Transcriptionist should have? 6. Did some skills come naturally to you, while others required more practice? 7. In addition to transcribing medical reports, do you engage in other forms of business writing while on the job (such as memos, proposals, or progress reports, etc.) to clients, coworkers, or supervisors? Please explain. 8. What do you think is the most difficult aspect of medical transcription? 9. What do you find to be the easiest aspect of medical transcription? 10. As a medical transcriptionist, do you often need to collaborate with others to ensure that all the information in your reports is correct? THANK YOU!

The question appeared to concern [2008-01-15]
the number of lines per hour, not the number of characters per line. If that was, indeed, the OP's question, then 80-90 lines per hour is very doable. I generally average about 300 lph when I'm really focused and have done as much as 350 with an easy dictator for whom I have lots of shortcuts. It will, of course, vary with the length of the line involved. The 65-character line is common for some facilities, but certainly not all. I charge by the gross line (any line with typing on it, even only one word). For one of my clients, thelongest line for anyof theirformats is 55 characters. It just depends on the client.

Those pages . . . [2008-11-17]
are not in any way related to time. That chapter is on genetics. If you have a specific question, please post it, and I'd be happy to look it up for you.

Suggestions [2008-11-15]
Read the archived posts here for suggestions. You're not the first person who has asked this question, so there is a lot of advice on it.

ALLIED [2008-11-11]
Okay, so I am about 85% done with the Allied Business School Medical transcription course. I have done very well and gotten pretty much 90% to 100% up until this point, whereas now, as it is getting increasingly difficult am struggling through getting 80% to 90% when I'm lucky. But here's my question to you all. I have been reading through the posts here on Allied and needless to say, it has NOT been encouraging. I realize that with any message board there is a lot of negativitiy if you are searching for it. I have learned a lot. I quit work almost 2 years ago to be at home and concentrate on the studying. We are in desperate need of my income in our family and I am beginning to worry that I made the wronog choice in choosing Allied. They told me that there was job placement with benefits upon graduation. Now, I read here and see that I may have been misinformed. So, what would you do if you were me? I in now way would quit at this point after investing over $3000. But, should I search for further study or just hope that I can find work and if not, try Walmart? I plan on really going all out, but we can't afford an additional 2-year-long search for employment after taking 2 years off for study!

Most common MT companies [2008-11-06]
I I am a newer MT with only 6 months of experience and am trying to get on with an at home company. It has been suggested for me to just apply to the major companies out there and see what happens. I have already applied at Focus Informatics, but other than that I don Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

a newbie here with a couple questions please.... [2008-10-24]
Hi, thank you for taking my question(s). I have Windows Vista on my PC, came with it. and I am about to begin MT School online, I have asked the school, but alittle confused. The software I will need, will it be compatible, with Vista, or is there conversions I might can buy, or download for free. The school is in La. and the program is Career Steps. ANY info will be greatly appreciated. ~Leslie in NWF

Forgot to mention [2008-10-17]
There is no such thing as a dumb question. Ask, don't assume.

Acute care... [2008-10-16]
All right...I'm gonna do it, ask a very dumb question. What kind of transcribing is acute care? Is that by any chance transcribing for an emergency room at a hospital? I see it all the time and have never really known what it applies to.

WORK [2008-10-09]
Ask your transcription teacher that question. He/she should know if any local hospitals hire newbies and train them, and which MTSOs will take trainees. Sorry, I don't know where Everett is, or I might be able to help more. I have taught those subjects for years and spend a good deal of classroom time on jobhunting. Of course, your teachers have shown you **** and told you at least 10% of those employers (144 today)will consider newbies, right? I have finally (after 5 years of trying) gotten our local medical center to accept my graduates IF they can pass the test. Take any tests you can. You will learn from them. Hope this helps. Rosie -- an oooold teacher

Finding MT work with no experience [2008-10-08]
Hi, I am a stay at home mom ready to re-enter the workforce. I am taking classes at a local college, Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology, Medical Terminology, Medical Transcription, etc. I have previous secretarial experience, lots of data entry, transcription, etc. My question is, am I going to be able to find any work as a medical Transcriptionist without experience, and how do I get experience if no one will hire me? Thanks in advance.

getting rid of vista [2008-09-16]
Unfortunately, I already tried this (took it to a place to have Vista removed and replaced with XP), and they screwed up my computer, long story...Anyways, I have been researching it for 2 days now, and this model of computer has issues with XP, because they do not make the drivers for it. I appreciate your input anyways. I guess you sort of answered my question anyways, that in general, Vista is often unacceptable for the MT world.

Sign off blocks - Pathology [2008-09-01]
I'm taking the Gatlin online course and muddling my way through it all. My facilitator does not respond very quickly and my frustration with trying to figure these things out alone is mounting. [img]http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/7072/dry4hz.gif[/img] On a Pathology Consultation I am supposed to put in an additional signoff block after the Gross Diagnosis. My question in concerning the dates. The answer key gives an earlier date than the Transcriptionist would have obviously received it. The D: and T: are the 7th at the last block, but the first block is supposed to be two days before, according to my answer key. So, is this just standard acceptable cheats on dates or am I missing something?? [img]http://img116.exs.cx/img116/934/z0tdntknw.gif[/img]

Why the gross is 2 days before . . . [2008-09-01]
You may very well be missing something, and that something is the date the gross exam was done. If they did not tell you, then you would have no way to know when it occurred. Here's what happens. A specimen (biopsy, some organ removed at surgery, etc.) arrives in pathology. The pathologist looks at the specimen, describes what he sees, and then slices it up into pieces small enough for processing. That is the gross exam. He dictates this. It's transcribed with that date. After the tissue has been processed in the lab and slides prepared, the pathologist looks at the slides. This is the microscopic exam. He dictates his impression and it is transcribed with THAT date. In actual practice, you would not know the date of dictation unless you saw it somewhere. It's either on the tape or on the dictation system. In your example, it looks as though the gross was dictated and transcribed on the 5th, two days before the microscopic was dictated and transcribed on the 7th. This was a good question. It shows attention to detail, which is a good trait. Rest assured that there is nothing in MT -- no rules, no fancy calculations -- for determining dates of dictation or transcription. You just use whatever the dates actually are, and someone has to tell you what they are in order for you to know. Redpen Andrews School

Thinking of MT [2008-08-28]
Hi, I am exploring the idea of MT as a way to fund semi-retirement. We will be traveling, and I'm looking for something that can be taken up and put aside for days, weeks, or months at a time. So my question is, are there companies that let you join a pool and take what they want to offer when you are wanting to work? Or is this a career that you need to be working constantly or you're out? Thanks!

Some Thoughts [2008-08-17]
1. Training (are the both relatively close in what they teach) I'm not sure if anyone knows the answer to this. Most guess that the answer is no. Of the three schools in question, two are close in what they teach. It isclearly stated on their websites and it is known to prepare students to get a job and keep it. Two of them use respected textbooks and have industry-respected instructors to facilitate and guide students. 2. Certificate vs. diploma This is not important.They are the same thing. They just reflect the fact that you finished the course successfully. What does matter is that you do not think it is a certificationas an MT. A certification can only be granted by AHDI after you successfully pass their exam. 3. 4 months for one program vs. 9-12 for another. How many students actually do it in 4 months? Or 9? Will you have to pay extra if you need more time? Check the fine print--a extra payment every couple of months? Or does the school just seem to take longer because they'rerealisticabout how long it will take?Maybe they recognize that people are different and are willing to work with you as long as it takes at no extra charge. Some schools have a policy of cheap-appearing tuition, no instructors, and making students struggle on their own. It'sthe student's fault if they can't do it in break-neck speed. If the student passes the only exam in the course, the final, they pass. Other schools have a policy of realistic tuition, full instructor support, and of leaving nobody to struggle on their own. The school feels responsible for student success. They work with students who need additional help and material. There are exams constantly, so the student is well-prepared to take employer tests and there is no surprise sorry, you didn't pass at the end. You actually do get what youpay for.

Questions from a newbie [2008-08-06]
I am a recent MT graduate. I am needing advice on which USB foot pedal would be the best one to purchase. And I have noticed that a lot of the classified on this website say that you need a medical spell checker and some even suggest getting a word Expander program. Which ones would be the best one to purchase? And another question. Do the online companies furnish you with the transcription program for you to use or do you need to purchase one for yourself? While I was attending school, I just used MS Word to type all of my reports into. I am just needing some advice or suggestions about the above questions. Thanks, Melissa

Advantage of using interns [2008-08-01]
Why do we use interns? Good question. Two reasons. One is that we cannot find enough real MTs to do voice recognition. It is a different skill set that experienced MTs are not used to using. Therefore, for the most part, experienced transcriptionists have a harder time getting used to doing it and being as productive as they are used to being. The second reason is that it is a fabulous way to get into the transcription business. We hire 100% of our interns who successfully complete the program, which is usually about 90% of them. This type of work is mostly editing which is the future of transcription, like it or not.

comm. college [2008-07-23]
Hi Toni, Thanks for the advise. That's what worries me about this college. The instructors are the ones who deal with phone calls and emails. Classes haven't started yet and I'm really struggling with to go on with them or apply to one the online programs everyone keeps talking about. I've asked one specific question 2-3 times and it gets ignored everytime. I've tried to call that one with the Bright Start program you mentioned but still yet haven't gotten anyone to answer the phone. Do you know anything about them besides just looking at their website?

It's probably best you [2008-07-18]
do some research on here as to which companies are good with newbies as I'm not the best person to ask, unfortunately. Sorry I can't help you there. The company I work for has a really great training program and I haven't had any issues when asking questions, even if they felt silly. From what I've read, I think some QA do get a swamped and overwhelmed with questions, so maybe they're not always the most forthcoming with assistance. Perhaps some others will comment on your question and be able to better help.

Questions, Clarification Needed, Thx! [2008-07-15]
Hello to the board! Glad I found it. There's a wealth of information here and on the Main Board. I have a few questions about what I've been researching about MT. Any replies would be appreciated. 1. Is the general feeling among MTs that if a person doesn't do a program thru one of the Big 3 MT schools, they cannot get hired at all? 2. Or is the feeling among MTs that if the Big 3 schools aren't used, the person can't get hired at a good place? 3. If a student doesn't go thru one of the Big 3, then they can't get hired ANYWHERE and thus can't get that magic two years' experience? I was really burned thru a sonography school. If you don't go thru an accredited program, you simply cannot be hired. Anywhere legit at all. No matter how great your skills are. GOT to have the certification that can only be gained thru an accredited school (can't sit for the test w/o this). I was told the accreditation of the school would be retroactive and cover us (the first students to attend the new program) but that was WRONG. And this was thru a community college!!! I don't want to go thru a program and then find out that only Andrews, M-Tec, and CS are considered valid for any employment chance. Many thanks for any help in clearing up the ability to get hired w/o one of the 3 programs mentioned. I find it odd because AHDIapproves other places as well, not just those 3. One last question: DOES A STUDENT HAVE TO COMPLETE AN EXTERNSHIP to get hired? Because I live in Podunkville USA so to speak and there is nothing here for 300 miles in any direction... THANKS!!!

First of all [2008-07-13]
LB I am going to respond to all you said and then I am done. I must say I have never seen a forum where such negativity existed. In any event let me clarify. First of all nobody asked you to comment or air your concern for my personal affairs. My question was about SCHOOLS. Not birth control, Tupperware, etc. Secondly, as mentioned previously I can and do juggle much with proficiency. This also is none of your concern. As far as homeschooling you obviously don't know much about that either because it does not take 8 hours to teach any lesson. Again it is homeschooling not PUBLIC SCHOOL. I do not have 35 children to teach a lesson to. In 4 hours lesson is done with the little ones. The older ones self teach and by the way my children can run circles around any child their age because I am thorough and don't make mistakes. Lastly, who in the he$% told you that I even thought this was close to Tupperware. Get it straight I don't take anything I do lightly, I am diligent and professional. Even though I don't have to justify anything (especially to ignorant people) I did not choose the MT field because I thought it was an easy job. So get it straight. Perhaps studying to become an MT was a mistake for you....obviously you missed one of the first life lessons: If you do not have anything nice to, don't say anything at all. See you at the top!

So being an MT is not profitable [2008-07-12]
Thanks for the response. But I have a question are you saying that it is not reasonable to believe that a career as an MT will be profitable? I cannot work outside the home right now my children are14, 13, 10, 5, 3 and 1. I really need a career that is going to allow me the flexiblity of staying home and earning money. Most stay at home companies are a scam or pay peanuts. I decided I need to train in a field that is legit and can pay. I am not sure if you are saying that because I cannot afford the one of the best schools I should not try to become and MT or because I have six kids I should not become and MT. The money from an MT career would be to supplement, not our sole source of income. Please advise.

Want to take classes [2008-07-11]
Hello I am ready to sign up for classes but I have a few questions. For one, I have looked at what would be considered the better schools, Andrews, MTEC, Career Step. But the problem for me is that the require at least $500 up front and I just don't have that kind of money right now. My question is are the schools like Ashworth, Penn Foster any good? They will allow me to pay a small down payment and monthly payments. If I go to one of those schools will I be able to find work? My last question is how easy is it to find work once I complete this course? I am a homemaker with 6 children. My husband is the sole provider and I really need to have money coming in right now. I am hoping this career choice will allow me to work from home and bring in extra funds. Any answers will help. Thanks.

Quick, helpful advice for new MTs [2008-06-24]
While I'm thinking about it, I just wanted to post this tip really quickly. One of the ways I REALLY helped myself when I first started in transcription was to hang out on word help boards (like the one here). When a question came up, I would research it and answer if I could find the correct word. This not only helped the people who asked the question, but it super duper hugely helped me learn what words actually sound like when a doctor says them, and what certain things were and/or did. Now I go to the word board mostly to help, but I'm still amazed at how much I learn 12+ years into the business.

looking to work directly for a doctor [2008-06-23]
I've been working for a service for 2 years now and I am looking to branch out and solicit some local doctors. This may be a stupid question, but do I need to buy my own equipment? I do have my equipment I need to transcribe, but what about getting the files to me? Thanks for helping!!

Allied/ Soon-to-be new graduate question [2008-06-06]
Has anyone had any experience with Allied? I am completing my training through them and although they have been very helpful, I have regretted my decision to go to school there (after reading numerous message boards, they simply are not the best school but it’s too late now!) Anyhow, I am looking for anyone who is currently going though OR graduated from Allied's MT program. I would love some helpful suggestions on how to get a job after graduation (the famous question!) Allied suggested that I pay 900 bucks to be placed in their lifetime career assistance program which assists you with your resume and helps you find a job. Does anyone think it's worth the $$$? Has anyone graduated from Allied and found a job? If so, please respond!! ANY SUGESTIONS from MT's would be greatly appreciated-I feel like I'm in the dark and don't want to make another bad decision!!! Thanks a bunch!