In order to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist it is necessary to take and pass examinations that are offered by the American Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) and accumulate at least 2 years of acute medical experience.
 
With this qualification you will be a true professional and will have a clear advantage over most of your competition who do not train to this level.
 
While a school program will lead eventually to receiving a certificate by successfully completing the training program, it will not entitle you to use the title Certified Medical Transcriptionist and you will have to challenge the AHDI examinations.
 
In order to prepare you for the role of Certified Medical Transcriptionist, you will usually embark on a program that will take you 6 to 8 months to complete
 
During this time period you will typically study the basics of medical transcription such as medical fundamentals and definitions, practicing dictation skills by writing reports, improving listening skills, proof reading and becoming familiar with the various tools needed such as computers, dictation machines and foot pedal controls
 
You will then move on to in depth understanding of the following medical practices:-
 
Dermatology

Otorhinolaryngology

Ophthalmology

Pulmonary Medicine

Cardiology/Hematology

Gastroenterology

Endocrinology

Urology/Nephrology

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Orthopedics

Neurology

Psychiatry
 
Rounding out some medical transcription programs is often a period involving a practicum. A practicum is work experience in an actual job setting as part of a learning program. This is an excellent approach in preparing you for full time work as a transcriptionist and can often lead to an employment offer.
 
As a graduate of a medical transcription educational program and with fewer than 2 years experience in acute care, you can apply to become a Registered Medical Transcriptionist with AHDI. This credential is awarded upon successfully passing the AHDI level 1 registered medical transcription exam.
 
In summary, a transcriptionist school is the stepping stone for you to become a Medical Transcriptionist. To call yourself a Registered Medical Transcriptionist you have to pass an examination set by the AHDI and to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist, you will need to successfully pass a Level 2 examination set by the AHDI and have at least 2 years of on the job training.

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