Bummed Out - My heart goes out to you.
Posted By: Anon MT on 2005-09-15
In Reply to: Bummed out - me
I picture myself in this situation daily as job security as a SE is nil & I keep wondering what I think I'm going to do when I'm all of sudden "let go", since our so called "Profession" has sunken to the status comparable to that of a worker at McDonald's.
First of all, our profession since the 1960's has never evolved nor been recognized as a "Profession" - it is a "job" that any "typist" can do - period end!! That being said - around the late 1980s, early 1990's, those savvy in business became aware of the "need" in this job market & saw it as an opportunity for "big bucks" with no knowledge nor regard or concern of the medical knowledge required of those required to produce quality medical records. That's the key - quality has been replaced with quantity.
Only when us "Oldie" transcriptionists leave our beloved field & the physicians eventually become aware of the poor quality of work & the fact that patient care is truly jeopordized & sadly ends up suffering from the consequences of such - will medical transcription ever hope of being recognized as a "Profession."
The sad fact is that as long as us "oldies" stick around & correct the mistakes of the newbies, transcribe the worst of the worst undecipherable dictation & correct the ASR - we are sadly contributing to our own demise. Without us & our medical knowledge - being paid a pittance - the worst of the worst wouldn't be transcribed nor would ASR be edited!! I'd love for the work I now get to be sent overseas & see the end product. Out of thousands of doctors on a teaching hospital roster - I get very few. I get no normals (but did when initially started on this account. I get garbled, faint, cell phone dictation cutting in & out, & the same undecipherable dictators with whom no rhythm can be established - having to listen word by word & typing as such daily. My production keeps decreasing as well as my pay - but I'll bet my "employer" is tickled pink. I'm supposedly at "top pay", therefore, the less I'm capable of doing equals more money in their pocket, i.e. have to pay me less - hire more overseas.
Physicians are our lifeline & need to be made aware of the difference between a "medical transcriptionist" doing their dictation versus a "typist." Albeit most are intrigued by "Voice Recognition" now on the market, I'll bet 95% at hositals are unaware their dictation is being recorded in the background to Automated Speech Recognition - only to try to be deciphered & corrected by a medical transcriptionist. Without our medical knowledge & expertise - whether transcribing or editing - the medical record is worthless & patients are going to suffer. That being said - our expertise is worth more than 7-8 cpl or 2 cpl for editing. Somehow - we need to make physicians aware of the price that is being paid for their savings on their dictation, who is typing their reports & whether HIPAA regulations are being adhered to.
Unskilled workers - that is exactly what we're considered & being paid as such. Unless & until we can collectively convince physicians that quality is more important than the almighty dollar - we're resigned to the designation of "typists" & paid as such -period end !!
I don't know who you've endlessly tested with, nor if you're seeking employee status, full or part-time, or IC or SE status, & will probably get flamed - but have you tried applying at Medquist? Really hesitant to suggest it as I have no clue as to what is happening with their new so-called "Rewards Program" that is supposed to be going into effect - but from the sounds of your past experiences, I wouldn't think it could be any worse -who knows at this point!!
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- Bummed out - me
- Bummed Out - My heart goes out to you. - Anon MT
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bummed out
I know I've had so many ESL docs who change the gender of the patient with every sentence that if I don't pay close attention to them, I can screw it up big time. Could that have happened here?
Bummed out.....
Been there, done that. And, it's usually my signal to get up from here and get outside for a while.
Don't give yourself too much grief here. We all do it!!
Don't be bummed out
I've been there too. We're all human, we all make mistakes......even doctors. Don't beat yourself up.
Hope today is a better day.
I'm so bummed...sm
First of all, thank you for your very kind and inspiring post. (lol, I remember living in 1 bedroom apartments during my single days. Always had a beagle and a cat; one cat was with me for 16 years!.
The reason I am so bummed is because I haven't heard anything from any of the organizations about being a foster parent. I had even decided we could take more than one dog, and SD11 would like a kitten or an older female (already have a male).
Here's the biggest reason why I'm bummed - yesterday, several organizations for animal rescues had volunteer sign-up sheets on their websites. These organizations were also calling for volunteers at makeshift animal shelters; Best Friends included. Well, last night, somehow, definitely with God's guidance and grace, I talked DH into going down near the hurricane area and, ya know, feed, walk, love and help with whatever is needed. DH is a framer and can build anything (crates maybe?). I didn't know if I would be able to convince DH that we needed to go down there to help, but I did! I was so excited to get to those websites this morning to sign up as a volunteer. Best Friends, as well as others took the volunteer portion out! I read that they only want rescue-trained people. Today, most all animal rescue websites are requesting only monetary donations.
I can give time and even recruit my husband, but money is the one thing I have very little of. DH has had full custody of SD11 and SS7 for 2 years now, and it's been quite a struggle getting bills paid, making sure needs are met, and sometimes do something fun together, at least once a month. We were going to put off paying a bill so we could use some of that money on gas for the van and pay that bill with my next paycheck.
So, my desperation to help on a "basic" not a "rescue" level is not needed. I guess the animals are being taken care of after their rescues. They must have a lot of volunteers, because the number of animal rescues being reported are astounding. They had better not be dishonest when it comes to the care of these already-traumatized animals. After all, they are essentially turning away extra pairs of hands, not to mention a lot of compassion and love.
May God Keep ya'll Safe!
Bummed out
I have searched the help-wanted ads now for weeks. Endless weeks of testing and testing and testing (I could probably do the mttest blindfolded now). Here are the results: 1) One MTSO told me that the average salary now for 20+ years is 7 cpl and that's including shift differential. 2) Another offered 2 cpl for editing. 3) Went with one FT and had ONE report per day the entire first week (and they insisted on FT, no part timers accepted. 4) Tried another (still there to have at least some income) and on the date of hire, had a 5 minute training session on the program they use, given no account specifics, no instructions whatsoever, no samples. If you send something to QA, you don't get a copy back. I had one foreign doctor and I missed the same word in all of his reports and will never know what that word is, thus the report must go to QA and each one counts against you. They have no night or weekend tech support and I was down a full week waiting for the one guy to work me in. I have searched every website I can find for job postings. I did find one for Indian-based companies and there were hundreds of jobs on there. Guess it's time to either change professions to move to India. I've watched the salaries drop every year. I make less now than I did 10 years ago. It's more like assembly line work now, push push push, quality be damned!! What happened to going in there and taking your time to put out a quality report instead of everybody wanting 200 lines per hour? If you have a perfect account, sure, but not on ESLs and such. I have lots of personal friends in the business who are not too happy as well. The AAMT guidelines change daily and then only apply if the particular account wants them to. What happened to knowing your employees? My manager knows nothing about me or my experience, neither does the person who hired me. Didn't ask anything. It's like they throw you in there, sink or swim, and if you don't stay for whatever reason, there's always somebody else out there who might put out some work for a week or two. I find a company on the net, look it up here and find it's crap. I spent 3 hours taking a very long test overnight, finished it, and THEN found out none of the contact emails on the company website were valid!!! If anybody out there can tell me of a company who hires you, gives you what you need to work (reference materials), and pays more than 7-8 cpl, let me know! Hospital desk clerks make more than most of us now!! What happened to our profession? We aren't unskilled workers by any means and it's a slap in the face to make less than a clerk who only has a requirement of an 8th grade education!
When I am bummed out on MT ...
which is most of the time these days, I consider working for Starbuck's Coffee. The benefits are good there and I think working around yummy smelling coffee and pastries all day would be oh so nice! 
I'm very bummed out. He's the anchor I always looked for during any major news story. nm
nm
My heart goes out to you...
I know how painful this is...had to do the same with my 12-year-old Cocker Spaniel two years ago, and I still miss his presence so very much! Your little sweetie will always live on in your heart, though, and I truly believe that one day you'll be reunited at the Rainbow Bridge. As 'gh' posted, if you haven't yet, please visit Rainbowbridge.org...it's a wonderful site & has one of the most beautiful poems I have ever read.
Please accept a big ((((HUG)))) & my deepest sympathy.
keep him in your heart
Just wanted to tell you what you probably already know, the pain will get less and less with time. Keep your dad's picture nearby and talk to him when you feel the need. I do it sometimes and my dad died 31 years ago. I believe your voice will be heard and your heart will be comforted.
My heart goes out to you ... sm
I have two 13-year-old lab/collie/chow mixes, Sasha and Keesha. They are sisters, but from different litters. I will be facing the inevitable decision of putting them down before too long. They both have severe arthritis - one in the hind legs, and the other in the shoulder area. I give them medicines for it and lots of TLC, but time is taking a toll on them. They sleep a lot and stay inside in the AC when it is hot outside, and out of the cold weather in the winter as well. They really are my "kids" and I know they have been the greatest children I could ever have. They still greet me with wags and kisses every day. I know I'll miss that when their time comes.
As much as it hurts to have to make this decision, you have loved your dear one with the highest form of love you can give. God bless you and help you through your loss each day. It will get better with time. And, when you are ready, God may bless you with another sweet pet to love. No, it won't be the same, and you'll always think of the ones no longer here, but know that you loved your pet enough to not let her suffer needlessly. That is the truest form of love we can give. You were there for her and did not abandon her. When I think of the decisions ahead of me with my "kids", I know that is what will enable me to love and take care of them one final time. They will always be in our hearts.
God bless you and give you sweet memories.
My heart goes out to you
You and your husband both sound like wonderful people but he has an unfortunate illness that only adds to the real problem I am sure. Some people do not truly understand mental illness that it truly is an illness and the person that has it is not to be blamed as they do not have control over it.
I have had a lot of issues in my life over the years and have learned not to so quickly judge anyone. I always feel what goes around comes around too and I have seen that happen many times in my life.
I don't have much advice (but you seemed to have gotten quite a bit here which I hope you find some helpful) as I have not walked in your shoes. You sound so torn.
I certainly will pray for your and your family. Do you have a pastor or one that you could contact that you both could possibly talk with? Having an impartial third person educated in counseling may be of great benefit.
Wishing you only the very best. Please do keep us posted.
My heart goes out to you
My ADHD son is now 13 and succeeding for the most part in school. I won't give the lengthy history on his struggles, but grade school was horrible for him, I had to fight every year with a new teacher to get his IEP enforced, and for him to get some special education to help him out (granted the schools liked the special education part=more money from the state, but they didn't like the part of having him in a regular classroom for the majority of the day). Once he hit middle school having that break in between classes and being able to move to class to class really helped and he went from a D student to an A student. All I can say is we are out our childs only advocate you have to fight for what they deserve whether the teachers/school like it or not
I heart you.
xx
My heart goes out to you and I'm so sorry
that what I'm assuming is your first MT job is creating such stress for you.
I know it's easier said than done, but you need to relax and think rationally instead of emotionally. Instead of panicking because of contradictions, turn it around and put "yourself" in control of your situation. Document everything from QA!! As FBL stated below,if QA B contradicts QA A, document such and send emails to such; however, my emails would also include a cc to the QA Supervisor and my liaison and/or manager for my account. I would do the same regarding the question about "too" many blanks. I was always taught there was no such thing as "too" many blanks as it was preferred to guessing !! I would present this question to the QA in question, and again my liaison and/or manager,etc. Document - Document!!
To make you feel a little better, I've been in this profession for 40+ years,and I still get contradictions from QA!! Having known I've researched thoroughly all available resources(books,internet),I document such and just forward all info to the above powers of authority. Can't say I don't get pi__ed to this day, but I just don't stress over it !!
Don't underestimate yourself because you're a "newbie". You went to school,you "do" have knowledge that is invaluable that will only be enhanced with experience.
I commend you for pursuing this profession in this day and age with its trials and tribulations.
I wish you nothing but the best!!
You have a very good heart.
forgiving. I do admire your charitable spirit. May this whole incident turn out to be a major blessing for you :)
heart go a flutter
Antonio Banderas, Al Pacino, Robert Deniro..the guy on Cold Case, what is his name, Danny Pino?
Piece of my Heart
When I'm stressed I get to let it all out with that song. lol
Bless your heart
I hope you quickly work your way into a better pay range.
Bless your heart...
you replied with Peace out, & I replied with guns-a-blazin'...what the heck did I do, forget that great thread from yesterday 
my bad...*sigh*
Bless your heart ...
Are you getting enough sleep? That's pretty important!
Also, how long are you up before you start typing? Do you eat breakfast? You need a good mix of protein and carbs before you start typing. Perhaps a little exercise..??
On your expander, slow is fine on adding to it. Limit yourself to 5-10 shortcut entries a day. Write them down and keep them posted on your screen until you can use them without looking at the list. Then take that list down and work on another 5-10 shortcuts. They won't do you any good if you cannot remember to use them. When naming shortcuts, do whatever comes to mind first, whatever is natural.
Don't spend too much time on ESLs if you truly cannot understand what is being said. I don't like blanks either but there is a difference in beating your head against a wall over unintelligible gibberish versus doing a quick (3 minutes is my limit) research of meds, instruments, terms, diseases, etc. Don't be your own worst enemy here!
Working efficiently is not a matter of how fast you are, it is how streamlined you think.
Healing heart
you're welcome. I wish you the best on your journey and keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I would not have been able to offer any insight had I not experienced this in my own life.
oh my heart breaks for these
families -- to be told they are alive and now that they are not -- please pray for these families, as only God can provide them any level of comfort now.
How awful for you! My heart goes out to you sm
I am now afraid of dogs not on a leash. I was walking my dogs not so long ago and we were attacked by a loose cannon and the owner was right there, laughing. I put up a much bigger fence and am afraid to walk my dogs anymore. So sorry to hear about your baby.
My heart aches for you...I am so sorry that--sm
you have lost your beloved pet. I know the feel of such a terrible loss. take care...and hug your other dog. I know he/she will be suffering a loss, as well.
bleeding heart
Might I add that I speak from the heart,
literally, as I'm right there with ya at the bottom of the totem pole, so you are not alone.
In a heart beat
Am currently trying to get on with them.
continued my heart goes out to you
I could care less if the teacher liked me or was my "friend", I was there to speak for my son's needs. Stay strong and be tough, and don't give up!
HEART, not "heard" - U no wat I mean...
.
bless your heart!
x
Oh bless your heart! ...
I'm so happy for your success. You're an encouragement to me that one day before I finally get out of this profession that I'll be able to experience wonderful financial rewards again, if only for a brief moment in my case.
I appreciate you sharing your experience with us and keeping it real.
Bless your heart ...
Sometimes the grass is greener on the other side of the fence; sometimes it's not. The important thing is that now you'll never regret knowing if you lost that 'perfect opportunity' or not and you were welcomed back with open arms to your true home. Sincere best wishes to you on your continued success.
It warms my heart
I'm pleased to hear that some dictators DO combine the two!
heart question
i do have numerous risk factors for heart attack and/or stroke, and just wanted some input (not to replace doctor, but this is Sunday and office is closed). I have a discomfort in the center of my chest, feels like someone hit me there, noticeable when i move around especially ... does that sound like a symptom of heart trouble, or maybe a side effect to nonstatin cholesterol med? thanks.
My heart goes out to you Pauline
You sound like a wonderful person. Keep your chin up! Just remember that we are helping people that are sick. That is satisfying to me. I sometimes think wow, I don't know how much more I can type about sick people, but then again I pray for their recovery and only hope that since they are seeking out medical professional help, they can find some comfort in that.
Keep digging in those heels and completing resumes and taking tests. Do followup e-mails and something will strike your fancy, I'm sure.
Good luck to your other MT friend, and I think she'll find something soon too.
My hospital work was outsourced as well 2 years ago and I felt totally alone. It gets better with time and keep chugging and you'll find the job that suits your needs. 
I *HEART* this post!
.
Heartland - the heart of the industry!
Heartland is the best company I've ever worked for in the transcription business.
Check out mtjobs.com, find a post for them, you'll be really glad you did. They are fair, always there to help you. They have great benefits, and one of the few companies where you are not just a number at the other end putting out reports. When I call them, they answer. No automated lines. When I have a problem? They fix it, right now. It doesn't get much better than that. :0)
Dano no matter who it is from, take it to heart.
It is well written and not back stabbing. Does it really matter who it's from?
Bless your heart. You won't forget that one again soon, huh. nm
x
Heart cath in August - $14K+ !!! nm
x
I'd hit my target heart rate just
x
Bless your heart! I wish I knew what to tell you
Flu is hitting hard. I'm surprised you can work this soon. I wish you the best! I didn't have the flu, but caught some kind of "bug" going around and had pneumonia! It was terrible. Took me 3 weeks to get anywhere close to feeling normal. It was very hard to work when I did start back and I was weak for days. Hang in there! I wish you good health soon!
I am in Oklahoma, and it was truly heart wrenching!
x
Reagan, bless his heart.
x
Anything by Heart...I love those sisters!
nm
Bless your heart, hon. Been there with 2 babies.
I put gel-filled teething toys in the fridge to make them cold; did the Tylenol thing; did the Orajel thing as well.
Honestly, there's not much else you can do. Sometimes if they were a little fussy, I would recline them in my arm and dip my finger in a very cold glass of iced water to cool it and then gently massage their little gums with my cold finger. They would let me. I think the cold numbed and the massage just soothed.
This is one of those stages that it is hard to get through for both baby and parents! I feel for you. I've been up many nights and suffered long days hurting for my little ones.
If it helps, they won't remember the pain. Only you will! lol
excuse me? That poster HAVE A HEART...sm
was not me!!! Administrators and moderators can verify that. So don't copy/paste my original words of wisdom about judging and then attack Have A Heart with those words like you think it was me posting as Have A Heart.
Geesh......evidently, with your posts though, you're not a parent.
GREAT advice, thank you! I will take it to heart!
nm
Just about had a heart attack, my doc sent me my check -sm
and instead of it being $78 it was $780, thought maybe a bonus? But figured that could not be the case so I called, and sure enough they had a new person doing the checks and she goofed, boy big goof. She say she caught one to me last time that was $1000, supposed to be $100 (very small account obviously). I just hope she is not doing this to their vendors because someone might not be nice and just run with the money. 
That's one of my biggest fears -- my heart goes out to you. sm
I volunteer for a local food back through United Methodist Open Door. They do not provide money for rent or anything, but they will give you some food and a referral to other agencies that provide assistance. They do ask for proof of income, but if you are experiencing a short-term situation, they will help you. They never turn anyone away hungry. I am sure there are such things in your area as well.
I hope you find some help. I am sure it is very scary right now. I will keep yo in my prayers. Good luck to you. Hope you heal quickly.
How very sweet, bless your heart!!!!
So few understand or appreciate the things you mentioned. Radiology has its own set of skills which i would find challenging, as long as it has been since i did any. So you are not a 'mere' anything -- you are a MT the same as acute care, only a 1-specialty person. Thanks again for the thoughts!!
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