A healthcare documentation specialist who listens carefully to the voice of physicians and other healthcare workers, and converts their verbal recording into written reports is called Medical transcriptionist (MT). Prospective medical transcriptionists must have an apprehension of medical terminologies with a sound knowledge of diagnostic procedures. The term "transcript" most commonly refers to a document (electronic or physical hard copy) and it represents the treatment history of patients. The written report is printed and submitted to the file of the patient medical record (PMR). All transcription records must observe medico-legal concerns, policies, laws followed by patient confidentially. For transcribing directly to a group of physicians, there are specific formats used according to the specialty of each physician.
The main responsibilities of a medical transcriptionist include transcribing the patient medical information such as name, social security number by using correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and keeping a transcription log. Moreover, they also work on the disk backup system to generate and tabulate statistical data. Medical transcriptionists work for hospitals, physicians' offices, and third-party transcription service companies that provide transcription assistance to healthcare organizations.
In the current setting, medical providers are sending their dictation by digital voice films availing transcription technology called "speech recognition". The verbal message is read by database and software abides the spoken words and phrases. The software automatically prepares an initial draft and transcriber need to review it for reducing inaccuracies. However, this technology needs the collaborative effort of the whole organization so medical transcription is still the prime means of communication for a physician to access the medical record and to assure continual care of patients.