The VLC talks with working grads
VLC graduate Amy S Larson of Colorado
VLC: Where do you work as a medical transcriptionist and how long have you been there?
Amy: I work at home in Lakewood, Colorado as a subcontractor for a transcription company in Longwood, Florida. I have been employed for 6 months.
VLC: Do you work at home or in an office?
Amy: I work 15 - 20 hours a week.
VLC: What did you do before becoming an MT?
Amy: I was, and still am, a massage therapist and reflexologist.
VLC: Why did you decide to become an MT?
Amy: To learn more about the human body and to supplement my income. I want to work at home and this seems to be the trend with this profession.
VLC: Which of VLC medical transcription courses did you take?
Amy: The Professional Edition.
VLC: How long did it take you to complete it?
Amy: Eighteen months.
VLC: Who was your instructor(s)?
Amy: Carole Nusca and Carol Simpson.
VLC: What did you enjoy most about the course?
Amy: The ease of working at my own pace. Also, the professionalism of everyone associated with the VLC, the user-friendly website, and the thoroughness of the material.
VLC: Do you find the practice tapes are helping you in a real-work situation?
Amy: Yes, of course. However, each doctor has his/her own speech pattern, rhythm, and habits.
VLC: How did you go about applying for jobs?
Amy: Strictly over the internet. I applied to nine companies listed on the VLC website and I posted my resume and cover letter on CollegeRecruiters.com.
VLC: How long did it take you to find a job?
Amy: Two days.
VLC: Are you paid by the line or by the hour?
Amy: By the line.
VLC: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of training to be an MT?
Amy: Acquire all of the resource materials you are able to, whether it's books or software. Take the advice from the VLC and keep a notebook of words and phrases that are challenging for you. Consider specializing in one area. My passion is the musculoskeletal system, so I decided to concentrate in the field of orthopedics. Stay organized. Embrace the fact there is always more to learn.
VLC: Do you have any advice on beneficial resources for new MTs?
Amy: I suggest Stedman's texts and software. Texts: Medical Dictionary and any other specialty text such as Stedman's Orthopaedic & Rehab Words. Software: Stedman's Plus Medical/Pharmaceutical Spellchecker Premium Edition, found on their website www.stedmans.com.
