BooksForMTs

Most medical transcriptionists today are using word-processing software as their means of getting the physician's dictation onto paper. Using keyboard skills with a word-processor is more than typing and should not be confused with typing on a typewriter. Word-processing allows for automation of certain aspects of what is being typed or what is to be typed, and also allows for complex manipulation of text once it has been entered. Being adept at using a word-processor and macros (small programs used to repeat actions) can be an integral part of performing transcription quickly but accurately and therefore more efficiently. Of course you can also use a computer keyboard in exactly the same way you use a typewriter.

The word-processing software has to run on a computer of course, and thankfully these days computers are very reasonably priced and usually come with excellent warranties if purchased through large retailers. These companies also often will offer very economical monthly business leases to make it even easier to start your business.

If your clients are using dictation tapes, of course you will require a transcribing machine. Transcribing machines are simply machines that play back audio tapes, but with greater control over the speed, and also have functions to help track different dictation starting points on the tape, as set by the person when dictating. You may need more than one transcribing machine if you have several clients using different size recording tapes. The tapes can be a standard size which is the size used commonly for recordings such as music, books-on-tape, etc. The other two sizes are mini and micro, both used in small handheld voice recorders. Medword now sells transcriber machines and other types of equipment that an MT might need, through The Medword eStore.

If your clients prefer dictating over the telephone, you may need a system that takes voice signals from the client's telephone call and compresses them into voice files on your computer. These types of systems afford a lot of control over scheduling and reviewing pending dictation to be transcribed. Companies such as Martel and Lanier offer these types of systems.

Other equipment you are likely to need would be a fax, a small copier, and any other small business machines one might like in their office, including a laser printer or bubble-jet printer, and even a color printer. There are "all-in-one" units available now that are comprised of a fax, color and/or black and white printer, photocopier and some even include scanners for scanning text and images into your computer. These units are a very economical choice for a home-based small business.

• About Becoming a Medical Transcriptionist
• What A Medical Transcriptionist Needs To Know
• Skills Required To Perform Medical Transcription
• Don't Give Up Your Day Job
• Frequently Asked Questions

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