If you’ve been considering a career as a medical transcriptionist working from home, you might be wondering how to get started.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know: training requirements, necessary equipment, how to apply for jobs, and what to expect when it comes to pay and demand.
Training for Medical Transcription
Accurate, high-quality transcription is crucial in the medical field. Doctors and healthcare providers rely on medical transcriptionists to turn audio reports into accurate written records.
Because these are legal documents, most legitimate companies will not consider applicants without proper training.
While some job listings may claim to hire without certification, it’s wise to be cautious. Medical transcription is not something you can “learn as you go.”
Reputable companies expect applicants to be well-trained and familiar with medical terminology, anatomy, and transcription standards.
Where to Train
A few reputable online training programs include:
- Penn Foster
- U.S. Career Institute
- Meditec
- Everett Community College (Medical Transcription Certificate)
These programs vary in length but generally take 4–8 months to complete. Look for options that include practice with real dictation files, instruction on medical terminology, and career support after graduation.
Avoid programs that promise certification in just a few weeks. This is a complex field that requires solid training to be competitive.
Equipment for Medical Transcription
To work from home, you will need:
- A reliable computer with a strong internet connection
- Transcription software (some employers provide this)
- A foot pedal (Infinity USB is widely used)
- Quality headphones
- Word processing software (often Microsoft Word)
Most of the research you’ll need to do can be performed online, but having a few medical reference materials can also be helpful.
Where to Find Medical Transcription Jobs
Once trained, the next step is finding legitimate work. Many transcription companies require you to pass a proficiency test before being hired. Others may require a resume and application.
You can find job openings on:
- Indeed
- MTStars Job Board
- FlexJobs
- I also have some medical transcription companies listed here.
Be aware that most medical transcription roles are contract-based rather than employee roles.
Independent Contractor Status
As an independent contractor, you are responsible for your own taxes. Pay is typically per audio minute or per line of transcription rather than hourly, which means your speed and accuracy will impact your income.
Pros and Cons of Medical Transcription
Pros:
- Work from home flexibility
- No phone work required
- Potential to grow into editing or QA roles
- No degree required
- Great for introverts
Cons:
- Work can be repetitive
- Pay is inconsistent and often low for beginners
- Many companies require experience
- Tight deadlines can be stressful
- Medical terminology can be difficult to master
Pay Expectations
Pay for medical transcription varies widely. According to PayScale and Indeed, the average hourly rate is around $15 to $18, but this depends heavily on:
- Your speed and accuracy
- Company policies
- Whether you’re doing straight transcription or editing voice recognition files
Some transcriptionists report earning below minimum wage, especially when starting out. Others, once experienced, are able to earn more than $20/hour working quickly and efficiently.
Be skeptical of job listings or ads that promise high income with little work. This is a skill-based field, and real earnings take time and practice.
To Sum Up
Medical transcription isn’t the high-paying goldmine it may have once been, but it’s still a viable remote job path for detail-oriented people with a passion for healthcare or writing.
With the right training and tools, it can be a good fit for those looking to work from home independently.
Want help getting started? You can check out some of the training programs mentioned above, or subscribe to our free newsletter where we often share new transcription job leads.
Looking For Legit Medical Transcription Jobs You Can Do From Home?
FlexJobs is one of the best resources for finding remote jobs in transcription and healthcare support.
Every listing is hand-screened to make sure it’s scam-free, and you’ll find flexible options for beginners and experienced transcribers alike.
Membership starts at just $2.95 for 14 days.
Anna Queen is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.