Recommendations on schools
Posted By: Charlene on 2007-10-28
In Reply to:
I am looking at the online schools and am getting overwhelmed. Can anyone tell me your thoughts on the best schools for training and support? I have looked at VLC, Career Steps, Allied, MTec, and Andrews plus a few others, one offered by IHA as well. They all seem ok......some offer more actual transcribing hours, not as much text material, tuitions vary vastly, and they all seem to follow the recommended critera.
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It's both the schools and co.'s fault. Schools are trying to kick em' out as soon as they
"graduate" and companies are very willing to hire anyone who says "they went to this school or that." I know. I've been there as a former instructor.
I truly believe that not everyone has what it takes to become a good MT. And I mean good. You absolutely cannot guess on anything - and I would stress this over and over to my students at all times. You have to know how to spell, and you have to have basic, or beyond basic, grammar knowledge.
My classes would normally start out at 15 to 17. And by the end of the first week it would go down to about 10. And then after that I would graduate around 8 or so. I would tell them straightforward that this job entails - the skills you must have to do this work - and I probably did turn a few of them away. But when they had it, and I knew they could do this work (I could usually tell by the first 5 papers they turned in) then I would encourage them over and over. I would call them, meet with them, and tell them to stick it out, and that I thought they had found their "spot" in life....That's what my MT instructor did for me many years ago and I am so grateful for her.
I know these gals and guys want to be at home with their young ones - hey, I do too! But as an editor also, I believe that some are just not cut out for this.
Also, I find acute care a lot less challenging than actual clinic work! I have been editing clinic work here lately and boy have I found that to be challenging. It is very, very specific. If they can do clinic work no problem, then they should train on acute care too.
Just my humble opinion.
Oh, as for VR. No, newbies cannot do that right now. You need people with editing background who know thousands upon thousands of words to edit VR. I don't think schools care about training them for VR - just graduate them with the basic knowledge and get a job doing clinic work! Yeah, if it were that easy!
Thanks to you all for your recommendations..
Looking for FTP recommendations, please
I want to drop my TASP and switch my doctors over to an FTP or something else that is relatively easy and painless for them to use and learn. I only have a couple of clients and each only transfers 1-2 files per day, but they are not very computer savvy so the easier the better. I would appreciate any information and/or recommendations. Email is provided too. Thanks in advance!
any recommendations?
As an owner, I am afraid to offer an hourly rate. Currently, I have one Editor with her CMT as well as a couple of other degrees behind her name, and it takes her 4 hours to edit about 10 1/2- to 1-page reports. All of my accounts are very easy....no fast-speaking physicians, no ESLs and only 1 or 2 who just plain ramble on.
Any advice on the hourly rate and how many lines per hour I should expect to be edited?
Thanks!
my recommendations
I have always had Dell but am thinking of switching to HP as my neighbor who works on computers all day long says that they are the best ones ever made. He has saved my bottom many times by working on mine. He also says to stay away from Vista. He wants me to buy a bare bones and he will install all the programs and operating system. So that will save me quite a bit. Anyway that is what I am told and since he has been straight with me for the past 6 years will probably believe him this time.
USB hub recommendations?
Does anyone have a brand of USB hub that they can recommend. I currently have a Belkin highspeed hub with 4 outlets. My hub connection keeps dropping from my mouse, keyboard, and foot pedal randomly.
I need a new computer. Any recommendations?
I know exactly what I want as far as features, but I am not sure where to buy it. I don't want a Dell because they offshore so many jobs overseas. I can't decide if I should finance a computer and have it shipped here, or save up the money and pay cash at a local store. I was thinking about buying from Staples or Office Max. WalMart and Sam's Club have good deals, but again with the outsourcing/offshoring thing. Am I just outta luck wanting to buy a U.S. computer? Maybe I should just put it together myself. LOL
any book recommendations? nm
headphone recommendations?
I am currently using the Koss Plug. I like how they block the noise but the design of them is hurting my right ear a bit, and I have not been able to adjust the bass well enough on my pc to fix the sound to my liking.
Can anyone recommend a decent pair of headphones for under $70, or preferably under $50? The $20 price tag on the Koss Plugs was great, especially since many people seem to like them - I will definitely keep them, but I just cannot use them 40 hours a week long term - ouch! In the meantime, I will keep fiddling with how I put them in to see if I can relieve some of the discomfort.
Thanks!
I would like some chair recommendations too...
I am having the same problem, and I know a chair would help. The one I am using needs to be replaced. I am fortunate though that I can go through my husband's work to get a chair for about half price. I just have no idea which one to get yet.
Hope you get to feeling better! :)
Chair recommendations
My old chair needs to be replaced. I can't seem to find the same one to replace it. I guess the manufacturer doesn't make it anymore. So I'm in the market for a new one. Anyone want to recommend a great chair?
TASP recommendations?
Anyone use a TASP (transcription application service provider) they can recommend? I'm thinking about trying MetroScript. Any input on this company or others would be appreciated.
Laptop Recommendations
I highly recommend you look at geeks.com and see what they have. Also, another option is the dell outlet (outlet.dell.com) they have refubs, off lease, scratch and dent (not so recommended) and "unopened returns" all of which are a few hundred bux less than a similar new machine.
I would like recommendations on keyboards
My ancient and well loved keyboard gave up the ghost a while back. This one is not making me any money. I am looking for a keyboard with a light touch and a little more space. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
TIA
FTP site or other recommendations?
I may be a little premature in asking this as I'm not yet sure what the software is that is being used, but I know a psychiatrist who would like me to do some transcription for his private practice. He is currently using a program to digitally put the dictations on the computer and then his wife transcribes it. I am wondering about options that are available to me in order to receive the dictations as well as transmit the typed documents back (preferrably through the computer). I have heard about FTP sites but don't know how they work. I think another option might be telephone dictation but that would not be ideal at this point as he has many dictations already on his computer that his wife is behind on and would like me to help get caught up. I do have a digital foot pedal but don't know yet if it will work with the dictations or what software I might need on my end. I have a limted budget. Are there any sites available that are free and are HIPPA compliant? Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated! Thanks!
Need transcription machine recommendations please
I am an at-home MT and I have been using an Olympus Pearlcorder T1000 for the last several years. I am on my second one - the first one the hinge doesn't work correctly to insert/remove the microcassette tape but the machine still works (but I have to use something to flip/pry the lid open-lol) ! In fact, I am using it now because about a year or more ago I purchased another one (exact same model) as I felt it would be wise to have an extra machine). Anyway, the new one started pulling out the tape out of the microcassettes and won't backup/rewind like it should. It did this a couple months ago and I did the alcohol cleaning with a q-tip and that didn't work, so tried some silicone spray and finally it started working properly again but now I have run into the same problem. I tried all the above mentioned tactics but it didn't work this time. :( I hardly feel it is worth taking it in to have it repaired since they are not a costly machine, and BTW, I have an older Sony business quality transcription machine (around $500 over 10 years ago!) that I had so many problems with and had it in/out of the business machine repair shop several times (so additional $ spent) and still ended up with problems, so that is why I lean now more toward the cheaper models and if I get a couple years use out of them I am happy.
I am just wondering if there are any other machines that you might recommend around the $200 price range that you have had good luck with or should I just buy another Pearlcorder.
TIA.
Any good rad company recommendations?
Does anyone know of a company that a Transcriptionist with 23 years of experience would find to be to her liking; i.e., plenty of work, good dictators, respectable company to work for, etc.
Need Laser printer recommendations
I may need to purchase a laser printer as the SOAP sheets that the office I work for sends to me are jamming in my HP ink jet printer. It has to be due to the writing that is being done on these SOAP sheet pages at the top where they fill in pertinent patient info, i.e., name of pt, vitals signs, birth control, etc., as well as how much the paper is being handled, shuffled, corners getting bent, etc.
I have a new ink jet printer and have always had a problem with these sheets in every ink jet printer I have owned but my newest (and nicest printer thus far) it is happening more than ever before. It is very frustrating and time consuming to deal with this.
I was told that laser printers do not cause this problem as they utilize a different mechanism in printing. So, I may need to purchase a laser printer but would like some recommendations. I cannot afford a lot. I am hoping if I have to do this I can find a good one for around $400. I would appreciate your suggestions.
Thanks so much.
I need a free FTP client - any recommendations?
Sound card recommendations?
Does anyone have recommendations for a good sound card? I currently have a Creative Audigy LS sound card and would like to replace it with a sound card that might provide stronger and more crisp sound for transcription. Thanks
Need new office chair. Any recommendations? sm
I sold my Herman Miller as it was simply not comfortable to me so am very cautious about spending that much money again for a chair. I think I would like one that has a high back and a neck support. I definitely need one with arms that adjust in so that I can rest my arms while typing. Any opinions or advice would be greatly appreciated as I am sitting on a dining room chair now!
Classical music--recommendations anyone?
I tried this. I chose a CD of "Classical Hits" and found it very soothing, at first. I especially liked Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. But, then came Vivaldi's Four Seasons and I felt the urge to jump right out of this chair and dance or do housework or something. LOL. Anybody out there have recommendations of what type of classical music is helpful, or names of composers, etc??
TASP recommendations requested
Can any IC's recommend a really inexpensive, easy to set up TASP that offers digital and phone? I have used Emdat and like it, but it is expensive. I have used Bayscribe and love it, but their spellchecker is worthless. Something that works with MS Word would be great. Recommendations?
Have two great TASP recommendations
http://www.scribe.com/scribelite.aspx
Above is link to website of Scribe Healthcare Technologies, they have a "lite" version of their platform for smaller services. I've been using it since March and absolutely love it. The people at Scribe are great, questions get answered almost immediately, tech support is excellent. Our doctor clients equally appreciate the features of this platform. I would definitely contact Scribe for info and free demo. I'm so glad I am using this for my MD accounts.
I also use Metroscript for some other type doctors that don't need "auto signature" on their reports. Metroscript is equally terrific, have been using them for 3 years now. These folks are equally the best, perfect for a smaller service too. They will walk you through the learning curve very patiently. Find them at www.metroscript.com. Good luck to you.
Virus software recommendations
I am getting ready to go to EditScript Version 8 and am currently using McAfee software. It does not seem that it has the ability to exclude certain directories and subdirectories from scanning. Is there a better anti-virus program out there to use? Thanks.
Satellite recommendations - Oregon
I'd appreciate any recommendations from folks living in central or north-central Oregon and using satellite for transcription. Thanks!
Looking for recommendations for kids clothing websites (sm)
Can anyone recommend some good places to shop online for kids clothes that are inexpensive but still well-made? I have a 2yo and a 6yo and my shopping time is limited, as is my budget! I've looked at Target and WalMart online, but I was wondering if anyone had found a fabulous place to shop for kids clothes.
TIA!
Recommendations of Helpful Reference Materials?
Hi, I am just starting out in this field and would like to hear what reference material people find as necessary to have.
I am just starting out in this field and would like to hear what reference material people find as necessary to have.
Also are there any special materials that would be helpful for plastic surgery?
Recommendations would be so helpful for me so i can decide what i should buy.
Thanks
Renee
Need to set up FTP - Secure site recommendations / cost ??
I need to use a secure FTP to transfer medical files. Is anyone using a particular FTP that they like. What is cost associated with this. Any info appreciated. Thanks.
Recommendations for a medical spellchecker for MS Word 2003? Thanks. nm
x
Laptop/notebook recommendations for transcription work?
I am going to get a laptop/notebook in about a month and was wondering if anyone has any recommendations for one that seems to work well with transcription. I need to know specifics like hard drive, RAM, memory, model number, etc. Thanks in advance
Keyboard recommendations, soundless & light touch?
can anyone recommend a keyboard like that? I have tried so many. Has anyone tried the Kinesis? Is it silent and light touch? Help!
Wow. Evidently this company ignores the JCHO's recommendations
At my job you would GET FIRED for not adhering to the dangerous abbrevation rules and changing q.d. to daily. I guess it depends on whether a company adheres to the joint commission on hospital policies or not. I know when I applied to a company I transcribed mL instead of cc and was told I made a major error in my test. I was following the AAMT guidelines and it cost me a job. It is a problem that is no standardization in the rules. I wish they would get together and decide on one way of doing things.
NEED RECOMMENDATIONS on foot pedal compatible w/Express Scribe (sm)
I realize they sell them on the Express Scribe website, but I was just wondering if anyone found any that were cheaper, worked well, and were still compatible with Express Scribe. TIA!
I am looking for recommendations for a FTP site to retrieve digital voice files. sm
Can you tell me what site you use, how much it costs, etc.? Any info appreciated!
Let your teachers make recommendations, but a basic Singer or Sears machine is fine. nm
s
best schools
What are the best online schools that will guarantee a job? Are there any under $2000? Thanks.
top 3 schools
I know this has been posted, but doggone if I can find in the archives. Friend looking into MT training. What are the top 3 schools? Thanks Karen
Top 3 MT schools
I just read about this and they are on the www.aamt.org web site--they are:
M-Tec, Andrews & CareerStep.
Some schools
I graduated from M-Tec. I am constantly getting e-mails for job opportunities from them even 2 years later. Andrews is also good and there is a third one that is mentioned here a lot that I always forget the name of. With any of these schools, you should be able to get an entry-level job with a national company. Whether your local doctors/hospitals feel the same way is questionable. My locals weren't impressed with my online education.
Rates: Avg for newbs is 6 to 7 cpl. Take that times 1200 lines for an average wage. Double it for an upper estimate. Even for experienced transcriptionists, it is really topping out at 8-9 cpl max. And this rate will probably continue to go down in the coming years, just as difficulty of the dictation goes up. (The easy stuff really is going to EMR/VR and overseas.
Remember you will probably be an IC so will have to pay all your own taxes and equipment. Just because you are considered an independent contractor, don't expect to be treated like one by a transcription service. Most want you to log in and log out during certain specified hours of the day, and they might not be the best hours for you. Most will expect you work at least 1 weekend day every week as well and probably even holidays (don't expect a higher rate either).
Top 3 schools
I agree with you. I wished I had known about the top 3 schools. My husband and I decided to go with a non-accredited school that promised a job. Well, there were problems in the very beginning. After 15 months, I quit. Now, because I did not go to an accredited school, it is very hard to find a job.
Schools
If you go to either of these schools you will be prepared and you will be able to get a job when you finish:
Andrews
M-Tec.
Otherwise, you're right; getting that first job is a bear.
Schools
I am looking for a school that provides refresher courses for medical transcriptionists who have not worked at this type work for long periods of time. I do not feel that someone who has done this type work in the past for several years and is still working in a hospital doing administrative or clerical work should need to take a complete course. Replies will be appreciated.
Schools
Andrews or M-TEC. I do QA (and graduated from Andrews). I just finished editing a newbie's work who took a different course. Had I done work like that when at Andrews, they never would have let me graduate, let alone have given a recommendation. The work was terrible. Obviously this newbie had not had much in the way of ear training, let alone any basic grammar. I could handle mistakes if it was a matter of simple style issues, i.e., learning specifics for an account, but mistaking "cranial" for "perineal" just did it for me. Sorry for the vent, but if you're going to spend big bucks, make sure you can do the job when you're done. JMHO.
schools
I need help deciding which MT school to use? I am debating Career Step, Mtecinc and Andrews? I want to be sure I make the right decision.
Schools and such...sm
OTJ training seems to be very rare these days, as I found out when researching this field. A school with an excellent reputation is a must for a newbie wanting to work right away--Andrews School and M-Tec are the top 2 that national employers recognize. Look around here on the New MT/Student board for some of the questions about those schools. All I can say is make sure she does her research extremely well before starting on this path; talk to the directors at the above schools; ask a lot of questions--it will save a lot of frustration and money in the end. Good luck!
Top schools, etc...sm
The top 2 schools that potential national at-home employers will recognize are Andrews School and M-TEC. It was a difficult choice between the 2, but I went with M-TEC. I believe that both have payment plans, and I was able to get a Sallie Mae (SLM) loan for M-TEC. Talk to all the schools that make your short list. They can give you an idea about the job market, their placement rates after graduation, average length of coursework, and any other questions you can think of. Don't be afraid to pester them! :)
Best Schools
If you want solid training with companies standing in line to hire you after completion, then check out Andrews School and M-TEC. Both have a solid, well-rounded education and will open doors to companies that generally require 2 years of experience. There are many good companies and smaller MTSOs who will hire these new grads. You will take your chances going anywhere else. Do your research of all schools to find the right one for you, but in my opinion, you won't find any better than those 2 schools. An expensive school isn't so expensive if you can get a job right away and have the tools necessary to do the job.
Schools
Like you said, the school has a vested interest in telling her a lie. After hearing the truth from you, she must take a considerable amount of the responsibility for her decision to ignore your advise.
transcription schools
Hi,
I just graduated from M-TEC and was extremely happy with the course-I took the Premier Course which is tougher but will help you when you go to look for work. Their website is www.mtecinc.com and it should answer any questions you have. I have also heard good things about Andrews and Career Step. These three schools partner with companies making it a little easier when the time comes to apply for jobs. There was a good article in choosing a school in the HPI online journal. Let me know if you want more info. And yes, I think you really do need to invest the money in a good school or else it's a waste of time. As far as how much money you can make, I haven't started working yet!
Good luck.
Jen
Need advice on schools
Hi - I am currently a chemist interested in becoming an MT and working from home. What online schools would you recommend and which ones should be avoided at all costs? I would hate to waste time on a course not worth its salt. Thanks!
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