Please tell me about Focus, I'm thinking of applying.
Posted By: Joan on 2007-03-31
In Reply to: I would not recommend applying to Focus. That is a bad company and - recently sold to Nuance. nm
Hello,
I have been thinking of applying to this company since I heard they are willing to hire newbies. I don't have much experience since graduating from my MT program, but really do need to make some decent money.
The only thing I have heard about this company is that they are Indian owned, thus offshore. I do not know anything about the pay, training, benefits, platform, QA relationship, recruiting practices or anything that might make me worry. Please tell me why you would not recommend them, I don't want to get stuck with a bad company. But I also realize that some companies are not good fits for some people.
Please reply here or by email if you like. I just want honest information. Are there other companies willing to hire and give new MTs a good starting chance?
Thanks.
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Thinking about applying but have a question.
I currently work for a small MTSO and have a small account with her but there is not enough work to support myself. I realize newbies don't start off with the best pay and that is fine with me but, if you don't mind me asking, do they start you out with the usual 5-6 cents per line? Is it gross or 65-character? Is work pretty steady?
Thanks in advance for the info.
Does anyone have any experience with TRS Institute- thinking of applying.
.
I would not recommend applying to Focus. That is a bad company and
t
applying for a job
If the job asked for experince preferred and typing speed of 70, should a newbie apply for this positon. If she has no experince and can't type 70 wpm.
Should you give SS# when applying?
X
Please remember this when you are applying
Send yourself an e-mail first ... make sure you have your email account info updated so that it actually shows your name.
You really will score points if the recruiter or HR person can find you by seeing your name in the email list rather than "dogsRpeople2@whoknows.com"!
Thank you.
Start applying.
x
I agree with applying first to see if you can get a job. sm
The answer to your real question is probably yes, transcription companies are only going to consider your experience in medical transcription, and most want either 2 years acute care, or a nationally known school. Sorry, but those are the facts. Most nationals will not even let you test unless you have one of the two.
However, since you feel you already have some training, you might try applying locally at hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, etc. Even looking at national clinic jobs with smaller companies might get your foot in the door. Since you have a job now, you can afford to take a little time.
I don't know about the mechanics of using a machine for transcription, I believe that is done by some, but I'm not sure. It certainly would make for good speed.
If I were you, I would not waste any money on a course that is not nationally known. You may get an education just as good somewhere else, there are other really good schools, but if they are not known to the nationals, your chance of getting a job is slim to none. I do not approve of AHDI in any form, but they have given new MTs a job outlet by "accrediting" several schools, I believe Andrews, M-Tech, and Career Step. If you don't want the full course, I think Career Step may have a shortened form. I would contact the schools first and ask all the questions you can. Good luck whatever you decide.
I don't know where you're applying,
but I didn't go to CareerStep & I've never had a problem getting a job. I had a job with Medquist before I graduated! NO ONE has ever told me I should have gone to CareerStep, & I've sent out plenty of resumes.
Thinking of MT
Hi, I am exploring the idea of MT as a way to fund semi-retirement. We will be traveling, and I'm looking for something that can be taken up and put aside for days, weeks, or months at a time. So my question is, are there companies that let you join a pool and take what they want to offer when you are wanting to work? Or is this a career that you need to be working constantly or you're out? Thanks!
Thinking of MT
Thank you sm, that was very helpful. I do realize MT isn't a simple job. I've been a court reporter for 16 years and thought this might be a fairly smooth transition. May not be the retirement income situation I desire. Thanks for your response!
That was what I was thinking...
I was thinking maybe I wasn't hearing a lot of problems with them because they weren't having a lot of problems! lol That is one reason I was asking because I didn't know if a lot of them were finding jobs or just being tight-lipped about their experiences. Thanks for your response! I appreciate the info. I will check out the other board!
thinking of MT as second job
you know...there is a reason that MTs with tons of experience are asking what they can do instead. By the time you find and finish a good MT course...more and more jobs will have been outsourced to india or elsewhere. It is hard for ME to compete with that 5 cents a page thing...as a newbie it is bloody well impossible. The learning curve AFTER school is pretty long too. Instead of getting into the offshore mess...consider instead taking a course in medical coding. There is a huge huge huge shortage of certified coders. You can train to become a coder at home on your own time frame (AHIMMA has a very good on line course). YES it is tough...so is transcription...but almost any hospital/clinic of any size has at least one opening for a coder. They are not yet offshoring those jobs! YES you need to get certified...that's improtant to get a job. But at least check into coding instead.
When I was applying for jobs and I had no experience,
was "real," but it was school experience and not work experience. I made sure they knew the difference. I didn't want to insult their intelligence, but I did want them to know that I at least had some familiarity with the various fields, if not direct experience. Most of them were just fine with that, so long as I was upfront about it.
You could start applying first to see if anyone will let you test now and
s
I still am thinking of canceling....
There is so much negativity regarding MT. I really think I am going to just cancel the program and at least recoup a little money. I am taking some college course right now and am trying to decide which degree program I would like to enter. But good luck to you.
Check out the Job Seekers board and start applying everywhere.
/
I'm thinking if I was selling something I wouldn't
point out the bad things about it.
That may be wishful thinking on your part
I think you've been proven wrong about the community colleges being good. Most of them are closing their MT courses because their graduates can't get jobs. Some of the others are still offering MT but they offer it with all sorts of other classes that have nothing to do with transcription. They aren't doing a good job of teaching people to transcribe though. They do a good job with terminology though, I will admit.
Anyone even thinking of starting school SM
for this field, go to the Main Board and read the post from "I AM DONE" - I didn't type it, but it's a pretty good summary of what an MTs career ends up to be.
Thinking about MT as 2nd job - extra money
Hi there - I have a very sound career holding a Management position making great money, however we are trying to pay off bills and I thought I would pick up a second job. A friend told me about being a MT and at first I was kinda excited to start my research, then sites like this (some of the posts) have scared me. HOWEVER there are a good number of success stories. I think I may continue on, as this will not be my main job, just for extra income.
My question for all of you who are certified. I keep reading about the BIG 3 schools. I don't know who they are, but I was going to go to one of my technical colleges in my local area. Is that a no no in the MT world? I mean, it's an accredited school. I'm just scared that when applying for jobs, they will want those that came from the big 3 that you all are talking about.
If anyone can share information I would greatly appreciate it. Thx a bunch!!!
thinking about selling my transcription business...
 and just wondering if any one has any opinion on interest in that. The person owning the company would make a minimum of $82,500 a year, running the business and doing some transcribing part time. It would be very easy to do some marketing and bring in some new accounts, which could easily push that 82500 to over 100000 a year. I have repetitive stress injury and my doctor has told me I need to find something else to do. I was thinking if there was an MT or a group of MT's (the company is incorporated so shares can be sold) that would like to get together, they can eliminate the middle man, earn retail price for their lines and establish job security, not to mention satisfaction. Price would be around $250,000 but like I said, a group of people could go together to cover that and with a little work in marketing, it could be paid off in three years. The business is about 10 years old and to the point where it is generating its own referrals. It could really go places if someone wanted to spend a little time marketing to a few new hospitals. Any one have any thoughts on this.
I was thinking the same thing....what a great way to advertise!!
,,
Amanda, you know what? I sat here all weekend thinking about offering Lisa an IC position (sm)
that might be able to help her out, as I work in 12-hour TATs, but the more I saw the posts left from her, the more I chose not to get involved. I come to this board for the specific reason of offering help, as I feel anyone who truly needs a break should be given the opportunity. However, Lisa has made it blatantly clear that the only opportunity she wants is on HER terms and I actually feel slighted that I was willing to take a chance with someone who comes across the way she has.
Also, I am offended by the fact that Lisa states her first job is "Mom," as if mine is not. Yes, I do WORK as an MT and I work hard at it, but I also am there for every single aspect of my children's lives, including class mother, PTA chairperson, basketball, softball, baseball, dance, etc. I work hard daily for the balance (without the benefit of my wonderful husband) and I MAKE it work for all of us and for that I am rewarded and blessed. How dare someone even critique my abilities, especially as a mother.
focus
I guess everone's experience must be different. I recently started with Focus and have received nothing but exceptional treatment.
FOCUS
I jus quit Focus....they do not speak English, can not type English, are no help, you do not get paid what they will tell you!!! I worked 60 hours for 2 weeks for a total of 120 hours and just got my paycheck of $106. Not even a dollar an hour. I ran out of work many times. They would tell you to do it one way one day, and a different way the next time. They are reallly good with insults! Please do yourself a favor and don't work for them!
Focus
I tend to disagree with the person who said stay away from Focus. A lot of the negative postings are older. I have been working for them for three months, and I have had few problems with them. Although, they may not be the ideal medical transcription job, they have allowed myself and many other newbies a chance to gain some experience. I cannot say the same for a lot of employers out there. Since working with Focus, it has enabled me to get my foot in the door with another company. I now work for Focus and another company. If it is a foot in the door you are looking for to get started, I would not automatically discount focus.
Focus
Experienced MTs won't work for 10 cent straight trans and 5 cents VR? Wonder if those experienced guys know WHERE their work comes from!!!!!
focus what?
What is the full name of this company? Thanks a bunch!
Focus
Meagan, I am glad to hear you enjoy working for Focus Infomatics. I will be starting their apprenticeship this month, and I am looking forward to getting started.
Focus
I started with them in March, and I am really enjoying working for them thus far. I have a great account manager! Actually, all of the people I have dealt with at Focus have been super nice. Good luck!
Focus
What exactly does lack of work mean? Are you struggling to have work sufficient enough to be considered part-time or do you have just 6 or so hours of work? I ask because I want to work full-time, but I don't want so much in the beginning to overwhelm me. Also, are you an IC? How does that work for you. I would need to work some in the morning and some at night. My husband works 2-11 p.m., and I have two small children. I really need to work around these hours, I just don't know if these is even considered by them. Right now I am waiting for the internship to begin. One more question, do you use a laptop and are able to travel while working? There is times this summer that I will have to be in a different location for a week or two at a time. I'm really nervous that once I get there, my equipment won't fully work. Any help on any of these questions would be fully appreciated. I know it's alot, but I'm new to this world. All I have right now is questions and many of them. But thank you for your information and any other information that you can give. I really appreciate your time and effort!!!!
Focus
FYI, Focus is currently hiring newbies for their FOF program. It consists of a few weeks of unpaid training for a few hours a day, but at the end of the training you are guaranteed a job with Focus, and they are hiring for both pt and ft. Focus has one of the higher cpls for newbies that I've seen. They have an online test you can take. Since it has been a few years since you graduated, this might be a good way to get back into the field. I'm a newbie too, and things are really competitive right now. Best of luck to you in whatever path you choose :).
I would RUN from Focus!
Just read all of the negative posts here about them! I also heard from a RECENT graduate that she contacted them about a job. They told her that she would have to work for free until her work was up-to-par as far as quality! FREE! With no time limit?! Also, it would have to be between 10 pm and 7 am. Just contact them and ask them. If I were you, I would do what the above person said. Get your stuff together and go door to door. Just think, you probably only need 1 good doc, to get started! Just 1 to give you a chance! That will get your foot in the door for experience. My chiropractor just hired me. But before you do, make sure to do your homework for the going rates in your area for MT work, maybe call some local services and see what they charge and underbid them. Also, just ask the doctor/office manager. Tell them you would be willing to work for a little less than what they pay now, just to get in. Also, you will get paid a lot more for a private doc, than with an MTSO. Cuts out all the middlemen! Good luck to you!
Focus Infomatics
Has anyone heard anything about this company?
Thank you
focus infomatics
my friend works for them and i am starting monday. i am concerned they only pay 8 cents a line though. what do you want to know?
Focus infomatics
Yes, I have worked for this company since October of 2005. The people are terrific to work for....very helpful and always willing to answer questions and make sure you're happy with their company. There isn't always a whole lot of work available, but they are constantly trying to remedy that and keep you busy. Drop me a line if you want to discuss things further. Amber (trblmkr778@netins.net)
I also work for Focus...
and I love it there. I have had no problems whatsoever. The people are very nice and will help to remedy any problem you may have. I make 8 cpl and am making great money. I think the lack of work comes in depending on the account they have placed you on. The account I am on keeps me busy all the time and you can ask if it is possible to get a secondary accout to keep you busy during slow times.
Focus Infomatics
I am going to be testing with Focus Infomatics later today. Does anyone have any advice about their test? Also, does anyone know anything about their program Focus on Future? Since I am a recent grad, I would have to complete this 2-4 week program. Any info anyone has would be greatly appreciated!!!
Do a search on Focus...sm
You will be interviewed by US employees, tested by US employees, and be working with off-shore employees with heavy accents both spoken and written. I wouldn't work for them. You make your own choice after searching the archives.
Better than Focus Infomatics and MS?
Is Spheris at least better than these two companies?
Focus Infomatics
Focus is a good company to work for. I have no problem communicating with Team leaders as we use Yahoo IM. I have never had an issue of not getting paid on time. Pay is direct deposited and always on time. Team leaders are great!!! Highly recommend this company!
Focus Infomatics
I have read different posts about this company and have noticed good and bad feedback but it was from a year and sometimes two years old. What is the perception out there now about them. Is it still the same or have things changed? I begin my two week apprentiship on Monday and would like opinions of what the thought is on them.
Thanks in advance 
Angela
I worked for Focus
for about 6 months. It was my first job. I really liked the account I was on, and my team manager was very nice. The only reason I quit was because I couldn't get fast enough to make any money on voice recognition. I was not in the apprenticeship program though. It was kind of hard understanding the technician that got my software downloaded because he had a very thick accent. If I didn't understand him, I would just ask him to repeat himself. He was very friendly and even laughed sometimes when I asked him say something again. Overall, I had a very good experience with them. Some people weren't so lucky. Good luck!
I also worked for Focus
It was also my first job. I only lasted a few months only because there was no work. There were days that I only got 5 jobs....I'm sure this is not the case anymore. The guy who trained me also had a very thick accent and that was frustrating at times. At that time I had to purchase a $40 foot pedal that is NOT compatible with anything but there system. It was also difficult for me to make any $ editing VR because the reports were so bad I ended up re-typing them...for .4 cpl. Not a great experience for me.
Focus Infomatics
Stay away from Focus Infomatics! They expect YOU to provide all of the necessary equipment and programs to do the job. They do not pay for training, and it is very poor training as well. I spent $600.00 getting MS Office, Shortcut, AAMT Book of Style, etc., as well as, ink jets to print all of the employment instructions. They drop you in the US the day you finish training, never contact you again, and hand you over to India. The account you train on is removed and they expect you to train again. Why?? Because they are very poorly managed. Meanwhile, weeks go by with the anticipation of working. In my case, the job never came through because of poor communication from India and the techs screwed up my computer. Don't waste your time. They also hired me at 8 cpl (in the event I actually ever ended up working) and expected me to login as an Editor at 4 CPL. What a joke. Not only that, all of my personal information is now the hands of God know who. Not a good experience at all. If they keep this up, there won't be a Focus Infomatics in the future at all. Good luck to all of you. An older MT who knows.
Focus Infomatics
I am always shocked when I read these posts because I have worked for Focus for over 1 year and they have been nothing but courteous to me. I started as a newbie and the training has been ongoing with feedback on QA scores and I have at least 5 accounts under my belt now. I will say that they have a lot of ESL docs and I hate only getting 4 cpl for editng, since editing is around 80% of the jobs. There is one account that I do on 3rd shift that is mostly typing and then my rate goes from 8 cpl to 10 cpl. I can also work whenever I want 24/7, anytime I choose and there is always work available. It was not like this initially, since I was a newbie and could only do clinics at first. I just hung in there and still trying to increase production, but I love my job. I do work for another company, American owned , but they do not have much work available on the account I was hired for right now. There are always peaks and valleys in this business, so I think it is best to work for 2 companies. I think I am very lucky to have 2 that I am happy with, and Focus has been there for me and given my great guidance. My QA scores are consistently above 98%. They even called me that day I hit my 1 year mark to congratulate me! I do admit that I am still working on understanding the Indian accent though.
Anyway, I wish you well in finding the company that works best for you.
Focus always hiring
I started there as a newbie and they were great. I still work for them part time, along with another company. They were very patient and they QA you until you are ready to be on your own. You will still get feedback even after to get off QA. They will give you a chance if you do okay on the test. They hired me even though I did not completely pass the test, but they said I did well enought to hire. Now I have greater than 98% accuracy on a consistent basis. They are a decent company, despite some of the negative posts I have read about them from others. I also do agree it is best to have more than one company once you get some experience. Every once in a while they do run low on work.
Good Luck,
Sue
No Focus does pay for the first 2-3 weeks.
I got that from the horse's mouth when offered a job. It sounds like things are different now than when you got your information
focus infomatics
is this a good company to work for? i've checked out their website, but as a newbie, how do i know if it's good or not?
Focus Informatics
Amanda, I am trying to do the MT test for Focus Informatics. I felt hopeful about getting on with them. I have actually spoken to someone there, and she has my resume and references. However, I am trying to take the online MT test for new medical transcriptionists, but the first couple of lines, I'm already having trouble understanding the dictator. Can you offer me any help or suggestions with regard to taking their tests. I am looking at starting the 2-4 week internship (?) in February, but I'm sure they will not allow me to start if I don't do well on the transcription test. I assumed the test wouldn't be too difficult since it is supposed to be for newbies. Please help me if you can!
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