The VLC talks with working grads
VLC graduate Tammy Fort
VLC: Where do you work as a medical transcriptionist and how long have you been there?
Tammy: I work for 2 companies, both part-time. Medical Research Consultants, Houston, Texas - I started with this company before I graduated from VLC. I was very lucky! I started in October 2003. I also work for Digital Services Group, Atlanta, Georgia - started May 2005.
VLC: Do you work at home or in an office?
Tammy: I work at home for both companies. MRC - as needed, up to 20 hours per week. This is not very consistent, which is why I have another part-time job. DSG - since I have only been there a few months, I am still working probably more hours than I should, (approximately 35 hours a week) getting used to the account and dictators. I work at home during the week for both of these companies, with occasional weekend work for both. MRC is not your typical transcription-type work, I get mostly excerpts from a variety of medical records.
VLC: What did you do before becoming an MT?
Tammy: Before I worked for these companies, I worked for a cellular/satellite phone company in the administrative department. I did this for almost 15 years.
VLC: Why did you decide to become an MT?
Tammy: I decided to become an MT because it was something I could do at home. I was ready for a change and the cellular market was becoming saturated with sales extremely low.
VLC: How long did it take you to complete your course?
Tammy: It took approximately 2 years to complete the course (part-time).
VLC: What did you enjoy most about it?
Tammy: I enjoyed the transcription portion the most.
VLC: Do you find the practice dictation is helping you in a real-work situation?
Tammy: Yes, definitely!
VLC: How did you go about applying for jobs?
Tammy: I had a friend refer me to MRC. I gave them my resume, filled out an application, took a test and passed! With the second job, I had experience so it was much easier, I believe, to land it. Sent only a few applications out and went on MTChat and replied to a post. I got it! I could not have got my first job with MRC without a transcription course such as VLC.
VLC: How long did it take you to find a job?
Tammy: Two weeks for the second job (DSG). The first job (MRC, I was not really looking at the time.
VLC: Are you paid by the line or by the hour?
Tammy: Both companies pay by the line.
VLC: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of training to be an MT?
Tammy: I love being able to work at home. I feel you really have to be disciplined and work without distractions. I love the flexible schedule that I have. My advice for anyone thinking of training for this position is LEARN as much as you can, do the BEST you can, and the rewards will pay off!
VLC: Do you have any advice on beneficial resources for new MTs?
Tammy: I use Stedman's reference material (mostly electronic) my first reference source, especially since that is what both companies require. Learn how to Google FAST and use onelook.com and reference material to VERIFY your information from internet finds.
