Become a Medical Transcriptionist in Oregon - OR

Oregon Medical Transcription Training Programs

While the state of Oregon only requires a medical transcriptionist to achieve proper training through an educational program, employers often hire those that have sought further education and certifications. Prior to entering a training program, it’s recommended students have met certain standards and requirements.  A certification program is the minimal requirement to work in this profession. This course of education takes 1 year to complete. A 2-year program can be taken to achieve an associate’s degree in the profession for further career advancement and certifications.

Suggested Prerequisites
Although it’s not mandatory, most training programs recommend students have acquired certain skills prior to entering training programs. This includes fast and accurate audio typing skills, as well as a strong understanding of grammar and punctuation. It’s best to have great listening skills to eliminate mistakes and improve clarity of transcripts.

1-Year Training Programs
Most choose to take the path of a 1-year program for medical transcription training in Oregon. These programs are available at most community colleges, vocational schools, and universities. The training programs include courses in medical terminology, anatomy, and legal issues related to documentation in the medical field. English and grammar are often required in most training programs within Oregon. These training programs also include supervised field training in the profession.

2-Year Training Programs
Students that choose to pursue a 2-year training program in Oregon will achieve an associate’s degree. The courses included in a 2 year program cover those of a one year program; however, they are much more in-depth courses. Other courses include general biology, word processing, and chemistry.  Courses in record management, business math, and fundamentals in speech are also included. Students receive further first hand experience in the profession. Upon successfully completing the course, an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science will be acquired.

Registered Medical Transcriptionist
After completing an associate’s degree, it’s best to become a Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT). Although it’s not required, employers often hire those that have achieved this certification. The American Association for Medical Transcription (AAMT) is responsible for granting this certification to those that have passed the certification exam. Once completing this certification, other higher certifications can be acquired after fulfilling the requirements.

Certified Medical Transcriptionist
After achieving the RMT certification, the exam to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) can be taken. Prior to taking this exam, 2 years of work experience must be obtained to gain the knowledge and skills needed. After achieving this certification, in order to maintain it further educational credits need to be sought every three years. At this time, if the extra credits required are fulfilled, re-certification will be given for another 3 years.