Health Information
Management Transcriptionist

A health information management (HIM) transcriptionist, also known as a medical record transcriptionist, is a medical language specialist who interprets and transcribes dictation by physicians and other health care professionals regarding patient assessment, workup, therapeutic procedures, clinical course, and diagnosis. The information is used to document patient care and facilitate delivery of health care services. The primary skills necessary are extensive medical knowledge and understanding, sound judgment, deductive reasoning, and the ability to detect medical inconsistencies in dictation. They must also be aware of all standards and requirements that apply to the medical record, as well as the legal significance of medical transcripts.

Work Environment
Health information management transcriptionists may work in a variety of health care settings. They may work with physicians, pharmacists, therapists, technicians, nurses, dietitians, social workers, psychologists, and other health care professionals. Some HIM transcriptionists choose to work out of their homes as employees of transcription services or hospitals.

Job Outlook
As the health care field expands, the demand for quality documentation increases. The use of new technology by health care professionals will contribute to the growing demand for health information management transcriptionists. The profession provides a high level of job security. Skilled HIM transcriptionists will receive a premium for their services.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Training programs vary from six months to one year and are offered through community colleges and vocational technical institutions. Certificates are awarded upon completion.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $24,000 - $35,000.

Educational Programs
Certificate Programs
Amarillo College
American Commercial College - Odessa
American Commercial College - San Angelo
Angelina College
Bee County College
Blinn College
Central Texas College
El Centro College
El Paso Community College
Galveston College
Houston Community College System
Howard College
Kilgore College
Lee College
Lon Morris College
McLennan Community College
Midland College
Mountainview College
North Central Texas Community College
Panola College
Paris Junior College
Richland College
San Antonio College
South Plains College
South Texas Community College
St. Philip's College
Tarrant County Junior College District - Northeast
Temple College
Texarkana College
Texas State Technical College - Harlingen
Texas State Technical College - Sweetwater
Trinity Valley Community College
Tyler Junior College
Vernon Regional Junior College
Wharton County Junior College

Professional Associations
American Association for Medical Transcription
P.O. Box 576187
Modesto, CA 95357-6187
209/551-0883
Fax: 209/551-9317