FAQ
Medical Transcriptionist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a medical transcriptionist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a medical transcriptionist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about medical transcriptionists
Is medical transcription disappearing?
Employment is projected to decline, but editing and documentation roles remain.
Can transcriptionists work from home?
Yes, most do.
Do you need certification?
It helps; employers often prefer it.
How much does a medical transcriptionist make?
The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $40,410 ($19.43 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,250 and the highest 10% earned more than $55,950.
How long does it take to become a medical transcriptionist?
Most people need about Under 1 year of training. A postsecondary certificate in medical transcription or healthcare documentation is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a medical transcriptionist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
Is medical transcriptionist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -4.4% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 6,200 openings each year. Upsides include remote work; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a medical transcriptionist need?
Key technical skills include medical terminology, typing speed, editing, and grammar. Employers also value attention to detail, focus, and self-discipline.
What certifications are available for medical transcriptionists?
Common credentials include RHDS (AHDI), CHDS (AHDI), Medical scribe certification, and Medical terminology course. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Medical Transcriptionist fit quiz, compare with Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, or explore Medical Transcriptionist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-9094 (Medical transcriptionists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Medical transcriptionists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.