Friday, September 23, 2011

What Is Medical Transcribing

Medical transcribing is executed by a medical transcriptionist who turns confidential medical records into documented text. The text is then printed and placed in a patient's medical files for future reference. It can also be kept electronically in computer files or databases.


Individuals may transcribe documents from home as a telecommuter or within the hospital or physician office environment. The report or transcription involves the physician meeting with a patient on specific dates. It provides a history of a patient's medical condition.


Typing and Formatting


Medical transcribing is the typing and formatting of medical files via voice recognition software and transforming it into a document. Before the doctor performs the dictation, the voice or speech recognition software has to be trained to become familiar with the doctor's voice as well as the relevant phrases and words. Knowledge of medical terminology is of primary importance during this process as well as the exact words being spoken.


Meeting the Patient


During a doctor's visit, the patient discusses medical issues with the doctor, which includes medical history and any existing problems. A physical examination is performed by the doctor. The diagnosis may require treatment that includes medication, which the doctor will explain to the patient. After the patient exits the doctor's office, the doctor, then, records the encounter with the patient using a voice recorder or other internal device set up. This information is sent to a transcription service or transcriber who will listen to the recording and accurately convert it to a written report from it.


Medical Knowledge


Medical transcribing involves simple or advanced familiarity about anatomy and physiology as well as diseases. Transcribing will also entail an above average typing speed. Good grammar, correct spelling and experience with editing reports are also an essential part of transcribing. Listening and verbal skills are paramount in the transcribing process.


Change in Medicine


The constant change in medicine, medications, medical devices and equipment suggests that transcribing is an ever changing process. There is no room for errors because the patient's medical information is at risk. A typing error or incorrect dictation by the doctor can put the patient in a precarious situation. Foreign accents and mispronunciations should be double-checked for accurate results.


Communication


Medical transcribing allows doctors to communicate in written form with other health care professionals who have to access patient's records. These professionals include worker's compensation insurance companies that have to approve benefits for the patient. The physician will also have immediate access to this information.







Tags: Medical transcribing, patient medical, medical files, recognition software, will also