Medical transcriptionists listen to taped recordings of medical procedures and transcribe them into written reports.

Transcriptionists interpret and transcribe information related to a patient's:

• Medical history
• Diagnosis
• Treatment
• Discharge

The transcription report becomes part of a patient's file. The files are used by physicians and health care providers to document a patient's medical care. The files are sometimes referred to for insurance billing or legal proceedings.

Transcriptionists must be able to:

• Type fast
• Spell accurately
• Translate medical abbreviations and jargon

They must also be familiar with computers and word processing software. In addition, they must follow specific codes of ethics. Patient information must be kept confidential.

Some transcriptionists also perform light office duties, such as filing and answering phones. It is also common for many to work from home, either on a freelance basis or as telecommuters.