Can I become a medical transcriptionis if English is not my first language?
Asked by mortis
Where I live we don't have this kind of profession so, I would have to try to get work from abroad. Should I try?

Best Answer:
Medical transcriptionist requires superb command of English and of very technical medical terminology. Medical transcriptionists will, for example, transcribe pathologists' reports dictated during autopsies, medical technologists' test results, radiologists' reports, doctors' reports. Listening comprehension must be excellent, and you need good computer skills (Word especially), plus know how to use the Dictaphone and other transcription systems. Non-native speakers are unlikely to have such a solid command of English plus the listening comprehension skills to transcribe the spoken word accurately as well as rapidly. You will also need extensive experience in a doctor's office, laboratory or hospital for experience, references, and referrals before you can strike out on your own and get freelance work.

Only if your English is very very good. Otherwise a badly transcribed letter can mean something totally different and someone would end up with the wrong diagnosis or treatment, putting their lives at risk. This sort of work is outsourced all the time, and lots of mistakes are made. But if you can do it, then go for it. But you would need training specifically in medical terms to be able to do it best.
Answered by jeanimus

It doesn't matter if English is not your first language as long as you are fluent in it. I also don't know if they hire people from other countries to do this sort of thing. When I was in college I transcribed medical malpractice investigation reports, but this was before the days of computers, which I guess would make it possible for you to do this long-distance. Your grammar,spelling and punctuation will have to be excellent.
Answered by bookish