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Aria Platform - anyone use this piece of junk? - Posted By: GotTheTShirt

We're transitioning to an EMR platform called Aria with a god-awful transcription section that is a step backward from the typewriter. It's largely mouse-dependent, slow (it's through their VPN so there's often a lag on the text) and it doesn't recognize a lot of the hot keys I've utilized in Word for years. It takes me half again as long to get through a report. I'm usually busy at least 8 hours a day as it is using Word with most of the people I type - it would take me 12 hours if everyone were on this system right now.

They've also changed to a "per dictated minute" rate of pay from 65 cpl w/spaces. It's a generous per-minute rate compared to most places I've worked, and they've stated they don't want anyone losing any money in the transition, but it would take a pretty steep increase in this rate to match what I was making previously.

I'm seriously considering changing jobs, although these guys have been wonderful to work with. Does anyone out there have any experience with this platform or any tips, websites, etc., that have information on utilizing this POS to its fullest? Hate to jump ship prematurely - I know what's out there and it ain't purty!

Does anyone know how to go about applying for a government job? - Posted By: i.e., the post office nm

nm

another example of people not - Posted By: understanding jobs...

I'm behind on work this week and have to make it up the rest of the week, today, tomorrow and Saturday. I usually go to lunch with a couple of friends on Thursdays, but today since i'm behind on work, I wrote to one and told her I wouldn't be joining them because I had some catching up to do. Her exact reply "Is everything okay? Are you avoiding me?" Hello folks, this is a real job!

Now Im curious - Posted By: not MQ'r

What is the condensed version of why people are quitting MQ? You guys could have your own board there is so much conversation! The rest of us seem mute. LOL

Any plans for Mother's Day? Hubby is taking me on a wine & dinner train ride. - Posted By: Tammeeee

t

Being paid gross line - Posted By: Susan

I have been offered a job that pays 8 cpl per gross line. Is that a good rate? Thanks for your input.

How long to make decent $$$?? - Posted By: JanieB

This may seem like a stupid question to all of you "veterans" out there, but how long until a "newbie" can expect to make a decent wage in this business? I have only been employed for about 5 mos, so I am trying to cut myself some slack, but minimum wage is hard to swallow. I do reports from a pool of doctors so I can't seem to utilize the full benefits of expanders, and on my best day, I can type about 110-125 lph. Again, I know I just started, but I can't keep making this kind of wage forever. Are there tricks I am missing? Any insight would really be appreciated!! Thanks in advance!!

Advice on going from IC to employee - Posted By: anon

Hello all, just got hired by a new company, and will be going from being an IC for 13 years to being an employee. Also going from part-time to full-time. Circumstances at home necessitate this move, but I'm a little worried about the change. I'm used to setting my own hours and not working a full day. Any tips for making my day more constructive? I'll be working 8-4, so it'll be normal work hours at least.

Anyone work with a Lanier VTI unit? - Posted By: I'm a new user and need help. sm

Just started today for a new service. I have plugged in the Lanier VTI unit and have checked the connections; they all seem to be correct. I can dial in to the hospital system and access a report, but the foot pedal won't work. My MTSO is calling in a technician but I hope it's not something silly I'm overlooking. Any suggestions?

At what age would most MTs like to cut back and just have a nice job and not worry about the money - Posted By: MTPA

you make so much and have less stress. Lots of high stress jobs out there but there must be a point where you say I want it easier now. Hopefully those jobs still exist in MTing.

Goodbye virus...finally... - Posted By: MT1

My computer picked up a virus about a week or so ago. I tried removing it myself, didn't work, contacted my Spyware support and they sent me instructions on what to do, didn't work, it kept coming back. So, I took a chance today and did the online virus/spyware removal tool with McCafee. You pay online first ... $60 to $90 dollars (I think it was $60 for what I had done) and then they connect to your computer run their virus removal software and voila...no virus. It took about an hour+. After watching what all they do, I know I never could have removed it myself no matter what software I had. I used McCaffee, but I would imagine all of the virus companies have the same online deal. Definitely easier than hauling the computer in somewhere and, worst of all, being without it for a day or two. By the way, I had a "bunch" of spyware/viruses, not just one. They left me with the page of tips below if anyone wants to look at them. I was glad to know about the first tip...instead of using the "X" to close the pop-up ads to download something, they suggest a better way to close it. Anyway, it feels good to have a "clean" computer again.

Home computer security Tips

Pop-up Advertising Alert

Don't click on pop-ups!

Pop-up windows are frequently the product of Spyware, and clicking on those windows may install Spyware software on your computer. To close the pop-up window, we recommend right-clicking the popup from your Windows taskbar, (which might just be listed as Internet Explorer), and choosing Close or End Task. Please note, this will end your Internet Explorer session.

Program Alert Dialog Boxes

Close unexpected dialog boxes!

Be wary of unexpected dialog boxes asking whether you want to run a particular program or perform another type of task. Avoid any kind of response to such Dialog Boxes. The best ways to bypass are

1. Right click the item on Taskbar and select 'Close'

2. Open Task Manager and End the respective Process

Alert on Free Downloadable Software

Don�t download programs from an unknown source!

Many websites offer customized toolbars, free utilities, or other features that appeal to users. You should never download a program from a site you don't trust, as you may be exposing your computer to security risks.

Alert on Email Links

Don't click links that offer free anti-spyware or anti-virus software!

These links may be malicious and actually install the Spyware or Virus they claim to eliminate.

Alert on Email Attachments

Never open attachments from an unverified source, even if you know the sender!

Be wary of unsolicited attachments, even from people you know. May viruses can "spoof" the return address, making it appear as though the message came from a trusted source. If possible, verify the legitimacy with the person who sent it before you open the attachment. This includes email messages that appear to be from your software vendor or ISP, which claim to contain patches or anti-virus software. ISPs and software vendors do not commonly send patches or software in email messages.

20 ways you can protect yourself

1. Be sure to set up your operating system and web browser software properly, and update them regularly.

2. Back up important files to CD or external hard drive.

3. Use strong passwords and authentication technology to help protect your personal information.

4. Do not disable your anti-virus program if another program requests you to do so.

5. Be sure the signatures in your anti-virus software are current.

6. Install and use a firewall program, and never disable the firewall. Doing so may allow Trojans to be downloaded and installed on your system.

7. Use McAfee SiteAdvisor for safe browsing.

8. Avoid making online purchases on public computers.

9. Do not click advertisements on web pages. Take utmost precaution when clicking on free offers on the Internet.

10. Consider changing web browsers. Because of its popularity, Microsoft�s Internet Explorer is a frequent target for hackers seeking to exploit the browser�s security vulnerabilities.

11. Use care when downloading and installing programs.

12. Be careful when downloading additional codecs to play videos or music.

13. Do not click links received through instant messenger programs.

14. Disable the option to automatically download email attachments.

15. Scan all attachments for viruses before opening them.

16. Turn off the preview pane in your email client to avoid script vulnerabilities.

17. Never respond to spam. Delete unwanted messages, and use a spam filter. Replying to or unsubscribing from spam confirms the validity of your e-mail address.

18. Stay away from peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing services. By their nature, many file-sharing services turn your PC into a server, which anyone using the P2P service can access.

19. Be careful playing interactive games. In order for you to play an interactive game on the Internet, your computer must be identified by a remote server. Once identified, your computer can be targeted by hackers and others.

20. Set specific guidelines for Internet use by children. Create system accounts with limited privileges to prevent installing malicious applications when surfing.

QUESTION (Please read) - Posted By: Inquiring Mind

So what is the average person's income tax return?

Mine is over $5,000. Anyone care to share theirs?

Don't even THINK about purchasing Speedtype. There are absolutely no - Posted By: Not a happy camper

medical words whatsoever and you have to add everything. Why in the world would the AAMT support this product and not any of the others? I spent over 160.00 on this product and my productivity has increased by ZERO.

I emailed for a refund and have heard nothing. I just hope that when I go to "resell" it they allow me with their licensing regulations!

Now I have to spend an extra 200.00 for InstantText which I should have purchased in the beginning - Can you imagine? 500.00 in the hole just to find which expander is best for you??/ I am highly livid right now.

has anyone ever had a recruiter talk down to them - sm - Posted By: ??

I cannot believe the way this woman spoke to me in such a condescending manner. She made herself sound so high and mighty, and yet all through the industry I had only heard good things about her. I applied for a position, was contacted by phone, and she told me that my EXTENSIVE 14 years experience, along with 3 years QA experience was not enough for their company. But it was the tone that she used! I am not a sensitive person in any way, but she made me feel like I was inadequate and had no business applying for a job with their company. When I told her what I made (which I said I could prove on my taxes and pay slips) she balked (?sp) as if I was making it up.

Has anyone else ever been through this?? I do not want to say the name of this person or the company because I do not think it is relevant.

Proper or pretentious to use *AA* (assoc/arts) after one's name professionally? (nomsg) - Posted By: jess wanda rin

xx

Could anyone recommend a good headset and where they got it. Mine keeps cutting out. - Posted By: Need new ears,,

I have had a heck of a time finding a good set of ear phones.. Everytime I buy a pair they either break, cord isnt long enough or sound quality isnt good.. HELP...

Continuous note form - Posted By: Amber

I have a test for a position and it says to do it in continuous note form, does that mean that they should be all in one document in Word or am I completely wrong on that? Someone please help soon! Thanks!

Radiology Transcription Question - Posted By: Terry

Hi. I've got an interview tomorrow for a radiology transcription position. I've been doing psychiatric, psychology, and some general medicine for the past 7 years. Anyone have any suggestions about what I should ask in the interview and how I can brush up speedily in this field if I'm tested on the spot. Any suggestions, ideas, etc. would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Wav files - Posted By: Sue

I work for a local company that has been using cassette tapes to do their work, but they have decided to try and do wav files on CD's. My question is - What exactly do I need to purchase in order to transcribe from this CD? Do I need just a wav pedal or do I need a pedal and software to go along with it? My company doesn't know because this is all new to them too. ~ Do you have a good wav pedal brand to recommend? Thanks in advance.

healthy eating - Posted By: fruits and veggies

What are the healthiest fruits and veggies to eat? I know raw veggies are supposed to be better for you too and that frozen is better than canned. Any other advice? Thanks.

How do you get a water ring mark off a wooden table, nm - Posted By: Romey

z

What would you do - Posted By: in this instance.

What if you were typing reports for the local clinic and low and behold the patient being dictated on was your own family physician and she is being worked up for CA. Would you stop in your tracks and ask that another MT type it? Or just type it and keep my mouth shut?

Just curious here.

Dial up for DQS - Posted By: question

How does DQS work with dial up? The manual does not state you have to use DSL, just an internet connection.

Does WQAR think - Posted By: Huh?

this is a hotline to QA? Dude, we can't listen to your dictation!

MTSO Ratings article... - Posted By: MT

I found this interesting...

http://health-information.advanceweb.com/Editorial/Content/Editorial.aspx?CC=103593

Tax Preparation - Posted By: Hazel

I usually prepare my own taxes using the 1040 form. However, this year I have quite a few deductions, etc. and feel I might need some help. I checked with a local CPA and he charges $350 to prepare an individual's tax return. Is this a normal fee or is it outrageous? Does anyone know if H&R Block or any other national tax preparation company would be good to use? And what do they charge? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

Legal question - Posted By: me

Hi all!

I am considering starting a business transcribing reports for students. I live in a college town and I think this would be a good idea. Like transcribing lectures, reports, etc. Would this be considered legal? As long as I am transcribing exactly what is said then I am not writing the report for them right?

Thanks for any info!

CORDLESS KEYBOARDS - Posted By: gracek

does anyone know of a good cordless keyboard, one where i could put in page inserts and do everything w/o the mouse. I have a Logitech which I am not happy with.

thanks

Posts about political topics go on the Politics board - Posted By: Moderator

If you are talking about President Obama's stance, action, statements concerning offshoring - it is political. It goes on the Politics board.

If you are talking about healthcare industries and what Congress, the Senate, the GOP or other leaders are doing or not doing about - it is political. It goes on the Politics board.

Thanks,

Moderator

anyone from York, PA area? sm - Posted By: LMT

i am looking for info on an OB/GYN named, Rosean Freundel. i can't find her on any of the MD websites. anyone have any contact info on her? she delivered my SIL's baby and she needs to request her records. she delivered at York Hospital about 2 years ago.

Name something that has to be just right sm - Posted By: Before you can type effectively

Me? Short and very clean fingernails. Chair exactly the right height. Wintertime a space heater right by the desk for warm hands is a MUST. I gotta have a cup of coffee by the desk until about 11, then I gotta have tea.

anyone go from IC to employee and like it better? - Posted By: trying to decide

I was offered a job and I'm now weighing the options. I have always been an IC and have been offered employee status with another company. The pay is 1/2 cent cheaper than what I make now as an IC. The hours are still flexible and they do offer good benefits, PTO, vacation, etc... Has anyone gone from IC to employee or tried both and would like to comment? Thanks!

futurenet - Posted By: Patkaz

I have accepted an IC position at futurenet. First, are they picking up on work?

Next, what about the Wavpedal? They said Dictran USB WavPedal. The price on that is around 219.00; is that an average price. I was shocked. This is the first time I have done IC in a long time.

Thanks!

To go for CMT or not to go for it? (sm) - Posted By: Long-time MT

Is it worth it?

Any hiring - ER only - or clinic maybe? - Posted By: GA MT

Need a new job! But have only done ER for 12 years. Old single mom with small children and no time to learn new tricks right now LOL! Anyone know of a good company - at-home - that hires for ER only (not Spheris) or clinic work? Would appreciate as much input as you are willing to give. Would especially be pleased if they supply equipment! Thanks!

Internet explorer problems - sm - Posted By: sammypot

I have I/E 7 - and I get this error message:

I/E has encountered a problem and needs to close. My options are to debug, send, or don't send

Have tried to find help online, but nothing that I can understand so far

Is anyone else having the same problem and/or had the same problem and know what to do about it

Thank you

Medware - Posted By: Ready4change

Can anyone tell me how long it took to get hired with this company? I spoke with a recruiter last week, who acted like everything was all set and haven't heard from him since. I did send himi an e-mail, but got no reply. I didn't want to call and be a pester either, but I would like to know something. I was just curious if this length of time was normal or not....Thanks

EBBIE - Posted By: Amanda

Sorry for the spelling.

What is the difference - Posted By: MT TEXAS

Can anyone tell me what the difference is between an LX-219 and an LX-219-1. Also what is the difference between a "Basic digital station with backlight" and a "Enhanced digital station with backlight"? Thanks!

Question about highspeed ISP. sm - Posted By: shari

Hi.

I am a current dial-up user and am looking into getting satellite through HughesNet. I am just wondering if when a company specifies that an MT must have high-speed, does satellite fit into this category? DSL and cable is not available in my very rural area. Any advice? (Other than to

move). LOL!!!.

Would you take this job? - Posted By: If you were me...

State has opening for MT at a hospital three hours away from me. I am 48 and been at this since 19. It is my only skill. Am wondering if I should make some sacrifices for this 29,000/yr job (relocating to a small town and selling my home) to ensure I have a future with an income and benefits. Am working two jobs now, one with national and IC for a clinic which is EMR and templates (they are slashing my income as I type this every way they can).

The hospital is a prison hospital for sexually violent predators. The location is in the middle of nowhere. But, is for state of California and have taken tour of facility (brand new) and it has state of the art equipment and the people there seem very professional.

What would you do if you were me? Thanks. I dread making a mistake at this point in my life and have no one to talk to about this who understands what is happening in our field.

Wrist issues - Posted By: soreMT

Hi everyone!

I am having an issue with just my left wrist. It feels like it keeps locking up, and is pretty painful if I just let my hand dangle (like if you hold your arm out and relax your wrist so your fingers are going towards the ground). I only started working in April as an MT, and I am only 21. Do you think it could just be deconditioning or is it something I should get checked out? I don't have insurance right now so I really am trying to avoid a doctor's visit but I don't want to mess myself up permanently this young!

Thanks!

shorthand - Posted By: romey

Anyone know where I can get a user manual on ShortHand 7?

Need tips! I have LOST my focus! - Posted By: Jill

I have been working as a Transcriptionist since 1999, always from home. For the first 5 years I could pound out the lines and sometimes work 9 or 10 hours straight and get an awesome line count. About 2 years ago I started losing my focus and would get sidetracked by other things in the house, but I was able to meet my line goal most days. Last year I decided to rent an office away from home with a neighbor who also works from home and I was a little more productive there, but still distracted. Now, I am back home again and I feel like I would rather be doing anything than transcribing. I don't want to give up on it because I LOVE the flexibility it gives me! I am currently transcribing for two different clinics (not working for someone else) and I work as an IC for a national part time.

My distractions are: Internet, housework, sometimes my family although I'm working on re-training them (and I invested in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones so I don't have to hear them when I'm transcribing )

I know I'm not the only one who has gone through this so if you have and you have any tips that workd for you, I would love to hear them! I need to get out of this rut!

Thanks in advance for your advice

Question for Sheri (only) - Posted By: Snow Bunny

I am only interested in her response, since she is the moderator, and it is her response that will decide what I do next.

If I respect anyone who celebrates December 25th as a religious holiday, will I receive the same courtesy in return (to not celebrate it as a religious holiday)?

I haven't celebrated December 25th as a religious holiday since I was a kid. I don't see it that way. I've also used the "Xmas" spelling since my early 20s, along with the spelling of G*d, and "JC."

Will I be allowed to post my messages with these spellings, or can I expect them to be blasted (like last year) or deleted?

Like I said ... I'm not denying anyone the right to believe as they do. I'm only asking the same courtesy in return.

anyone free to use the chat? - Posted By: mandy

i am there now.

studying for CMT exam - Posted By: JMK

Hi guys! After 10 years of acute care MT, I'm thinking about taking my CMT exam, as my employer supports this.

Is there a study guide I can buy? HOw do I go about preparing myself for the exam? What's first ?

THanks to all !

JMK

Proofing Help Pleeeez! (long post) - Posted By: desperateMT

I am 53, divorcee with 1 child in college, been MTing for 32 years. When I started out I was one of the best in my field, accurate, at my peak was making close to 50,000 a year, only one job and only 40 hours a week. Now, here I am going through menopause, working 12 hours a day (1 full-time and 1 part-time) and barely making ends meet. My production is at an all-time low, and I'm working on my 3rd or 4th job this year- I forget, it's been so many, for various reasons why they didn't work out. But, now I find myself, going into my third week of employment with this company, still in QA, making stupid grammatical errors, and leaving out words, that I am not aware of. I would like to say one of my problems is that this is a huge Children's Hospital with a lot of procedures, diseases, and terminology I have never heard of, but I cannot really say that, as most of my errors are gramatical, i.e. not putting comma or semi-colon where it belongs, leaving out it, and, but and they. I am beginning to feel they may not keep me. I am 1 pay check from being homeless, now jobless, already uninsured, as I could not afford the Cobra. I have applied for jobs completely out of the MT field, so far with no luck of being hired. I put in an application last week for a State Job with excellent benefits, paid by company, and although the salary is 22,000 to 36,000, if they call me, I am definitely going to take it. I figure I have 15 more years before retirement, and if I can tap into the retirement for the next 15 years, that would be a help, as I don't have any 401K to fall back on. Anyways, if you guys can give me some proofreading tips that will not take away from my production, I would greatly appreciate it. Most companies don't offer a training pay that would last at least 2 weeks, which would be a help. So here I am trying to make money, which is virtually impossible when you're training on a new account, new company, new software and everything. Help Guys.

RE: Post below...Let me assure you this "company" - Posted By: Curious

has no ethics either and has been banned from this board because of it. They don't treat this account the way they should and quite frankly the client deserves better.

Word help needed on word board - Posted By: Ortho

Can someone help over on the word board? Thanks.