The VLC talks with working grads
VLC graduate Joanne Start
VLC: Where do you work as a medical transcriptionist and how long have you been there?
Joanne: Interpro Medical Solutions since September, 2004, online.
VLC: Do you work at home or in an office?
Joanne: I work at home, approximately 20 scheduled hours, but I usually put in more. Interpro Medical Solutions is an Internet company.
VLC: What did you do before becoming an MT?
Joanne: I am an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), still practicing occasionally; semi-retired.
VLC: Why did you decide to become an MT?
Joanne: I wanted some type of medical work that I could do from home.
VLC: Which of VLC medical transcription courses did you take?
Joanne: Intermediate.
VLC: How long did it take you to complete it?
Joanne: Not exactly sure, I think about 9 months.
VLC: Who was your instructor(s)?
Joanne: My instructors changed during the course.
VLC: What did you enjoy most about the course?
Joanne: The program was good, the dictation was good. It used probable situations and crummy dictators that do exist in real life situations.
VLC: Do you find the practice tapes are helping you in a real-work situation?
Joanne: Yes.
VLC: How did you go about applying for jobs?
Joanne: I used the referral from the home-based jobs, I believe it is part of the program.
VLC: How long did it take you to find a job?
Joanne: Less than 3 weeks.
VLC: Are you paid by the line or by the hour?
Joanne: By the line.
VLC: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of training to be an MT?
Joanne: Don't expect to earn the big dollars, but the work is rewarding if you enjoy being in a medical profession.
