All Things Transcription

As often happens in my life, I went about things in a backwards fashion regarding my training in medical transcription. My original training in this field was obtained on the job while working at a local hospital in the emergency department. I received generalized training in the department and I also utilized their excellent continuing education resources to take medical terminology and other courses meant for the nursing staff. These were very helpful and were broken down into specialties that gave me training in many different areas I would otherwise not have been exposed to.

Follow up:

The area I live in has been suffering for a long time as far as the economy goes. When I realized that I would probably be faced with permanent layoff, I made the decision that I wanted to operate my own transcription business. I decided to obtain some additional education. Education is always a good thing, right? After looking at the training options available I chose Career Step.

I found Career Step to be a good fit for me. I prefer to work alone at my own pace. The folks at CS are very helpful and they are happy to answer any question. However, the materials are sensibly organized and I had little need to use the staff support that is available. Technical support is available but I had no need to use it either. The site was down only once and was back up in a very short time. It always operated correctly.

After working as a transcriptionist for some years, I still gained some knowledge. I do feel that my previous experience gave me an advantage but not enough to make me feel that I had wasted my money by enrolling in the course. I also like the materials that came with the course. They do not supply the Book of Style and I would recommend that new students go ahead and purchase this.

I did feel rushed during preparation for the final exam but this was due to my desire to finish without purchasing an extension to the course. I think the price to extend is reasonable if it is necessary for a student to finish the course. It took me almost exactly a year to finish which is well past the time CS claims it can take to complete the course. However, this was related to personal issues such as work, homeschooling, and other things. I do believe that if everything goes as planned for the student it can be completed in a very short time. Life can throw some curve balls at you. As John Lennon said, “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.”

Ultimately, I feel that Career Step came through with everything they claim and I enjoyed the experience. I think that the price of the course is reasonable and well worth it. Even though I was already an experienced transcriptionist, it was a very good experience. I certainly feel that a new student with no background in the profession will receive everything they need to succeed in this field if they train with Career Step.