To work as a medical secretary, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

You must have at least a high school diploma to become a medical secretary. Some medical secretaries have some formal training beyond high school. Professional-technical schools and community colleges offer one- and two-year programs. In general, you receive a certificate when you complete the one-year program. You get an associate degree when you complete the two-year program.

You need basic office skills such as accounting, word processing, filing, and recordkeeping. In addition you need excellent spelling, punctuation, and grammar. You also need to know medical terminology and stenography.

Work experience

Some people prepare for this occupation through work experience. You can work your way up through clerical jobs at medical offices, learning new skills at each one. Eventually, you have enough knowledge to move into a secretarial position.

On-the-job training

Most medical secretaries learn their skills on the job. You may work under the guidance of an experienced medical secretary. You work independently and on more difficult tasks as you gain knowledge and experience. Training generally lasts a few months.

Because of the fast changing nature of this field, employers may offer training in the newest office technologies and software.