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Medical Transcription

Associate of Applied Science Degree

Catalog Year 2008-09

MHCC Faculty Advisor Carole Wickham: 503-491-7195 - Room AC 2772 Carole.Wickham@mhcc.edu

Medical transcriptionists (medical language specialists) transform spoken words into comprehensive records that accurately communicate medical information. These reports are used in the areas involved in all aspects of each patients care. These reports function as legal documentation and fulfill requirements for insurance reimbursement. They also serve as references for scientific research.

Medical transcriptionists (medical language specialists) utilize their talents in a variety of healthcare settings, including doctors offices, public and private hospitals, teaching hospitals, medical transcription services, clinics, laboratories, radiology and pathology departments, insurance companies, medical libraries, government medical facilities, rehabilitation centers, legal offices, research centers, veterinary medical facilities, and associations representing the healthcare industry. Transcriptionists may also choose to work out of their homes as employees of transcription services or hospitals, or as independent contractors.

Transcription (medical language specialist) offers unlimited intellectual challenge to those who possess an interest in learning. Characteristics of a successful medical transcriptionist include dedication to excellence, extensive medical knowledge and understanding, sound judgment, deductive reasoning, and excellent English and computer skills.

This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions. Academic courses include science and English, with practical courses in computer technology, medical transcription, and medical record coding. Students will use computers to transcribe authentic physician‑dictated medical reports organized by body system or medical specialty. Students will be graded on accuracy, speed, and medical knowledge in the transcription of letters, chart notes, history and physical examination reports, consultations, emergency room reports, and discharge summaries. Students will use reference materials and other resources. Students will edit and proofread each report, using proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Program Outcomes
At the completion of this program, the student should be able to:

• discuss the roles of the healthcare team members, elements of successful leadership, and problem-solving strategies
• describe medical terminology, including disease processes and pharmacology
• differentiate verbal and nonverbal communication, including gender differences, cultural awareness and sensitivity, and the elements of speaking and listening
• describe the knowledge and skills required of a medical transcriptionist
• compare and contrast the billing and coding elements
• complete a professional resum
• describe job searches and correct interview techniques.

Please check the MHCC website for any curricular changes that have occurred since the catalog was published.

Medical Office students are required to have a criminal background check (http://www.mhcc.edu/docs/docsAlliedHealth/criminalbackgroundcheck.pdf), and a current Tuberculin skin test (PPD) at the beginning of the MO110 Powerful Skills for the Office Team class. Medical Office students must document completion of the three-dose Hepatitis B vaccine series and complete a Measles Immunization Clearance Certificate for School Attendance form prior to beginning the externship placement process. Some externship sites may require further immunizations. See program director for site specific requirements.

Note: A minimum grade of C is required in all courses.

1 Prerequisite - See course description in back of catalog.
2 A lternate selections BI231 and BI232 and BI233, or equivalent Anatomy and Physiology sequence
3 Students may not use demonstrated proficiency on the College Placement Test (CPT) to satisfy this requirement.

See pages 7-10.