Begin your Career as a Medical Scribe Today
If you're considering a career in medical scribing, you're in luck. Scribes are in high demand, and the job market is likely to grow significantly in the coming years.
But what exactly does a medical scribe do? And what qualifications do you need? Here's a basic introduction to the role of a medical scribe and the best online medical scribe courses.
What Is A Medical Scribe?
A medical scribe, also known as a clinical scribe, is an unlicensed individual who works alongside a physician or other healthcare provider to document patient encounters. Scribes are responsible for transcribing all aspects of the encounter, from the chief complaint to the physical exam findings to the treatment plan.
Core Responsibilities Of Medical Scribes
- Observe the doctor when they perform their rounds; use electronic medical record apps to record and translate medical record data and charts for the doctor to use later.
- Update the patient's medical history, physical examinations, any doctor-performed procedures, clinical data, test results, and any doctor's interpretations.
- Create letters of recommendation for the doctor or a summary of the patient's medical records; accurately alter the medical records.
- To guarantee medical record compliance, use self-documentation verification (sign photocopies of documents to attest to their legitimacy).
- Compile and deliver all documentation to the doctor for assessment and approval using facility-specific protocols and careful data entry authentication.
- Follow up on the timeline for first lab findings and screening procedures; help create and upkeep patient monitoring systems.
- While preparing medical documentation, adhere to all applicable ethical, legal, and confidentiality guidelines.
- To ensure a simplified workflow and higher production, coordinate referrals, keep an eye on the phone, and perform extra administrative activities.
To be successful, scribes must have proficient written communication skills and be able to type quickly and accurately. They must also be a high school graduate and have a basic understanding of medical terminology.
While there are no formal education requirements to become a medical scribe, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a basic medical scribe course online or through an accredited program. These courses typically last between six and eight months and cover different topics and courses.
What You Will Learn
- Thorough familiarity with medical terms.
- Recognizing the components of the physical examination procedure and writing down exam information.
Digital Health Record.
Expected Cost
The expected cost of introductory online medical scribe courses varies from institute to institute. It also depends on the courses and credit hours they offer. For example, Advanced Clinical Medical Scribe Organization (ACMSO) charges $300, William Paterson University requires $1999, and Medical Scribes Training Institute charges $300 for the general course.
Apart from these, many other places offer basic medical scribe courses, so do your research and choose according to your requirements.
Where Medical Scribes Work
A medical scribe may work for any of the several healthcare organizations, including but not restricted to:
- Primary healthcare facilities.
- Emergency medical units.
- Specialty hospitals/clinics.
- Hospitals or clinics offering in-patient care.
Expected Salary
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of medical scribes is $30,100 per year.
Medical Scribe Certification
A medical scribe is not required to have a license, unlike doctors who must be certified to practice. Nevertheless, medical scribe credentials are available that train skilled medical scribes for careers in the medical industry. Demonstrating your love for and dedication to your profession through certification can help you stand out while applying.
The most well-known medical scribe certification programs are listed below for your consideration.
- Advanced Clinical Medical Scribe (ACMS) – This certification curriculum is taught by doctors and includes practical modules on medical terminology, data entry, electronic health records, medical billing, and coding procedures, in addition to an advanced overview of the main specialties.
- Certified Medical Scribe Specialist (CMSS) – You must complete three months of practical training as a medical scribe before applying for the CMSS certification. Additionally, you will learn every CMSA certification module.
- Medical Scribe Certification and Aptitude Test (MSCAT) – Your proficiency in medicolegal, HIPAA, electronic health record administration, computers, and medical terminology are enhanced by MSCAT certification.
- Certified Medical Scribe Professional (CMSP) – A passing score on the Medical Scribe Certification Exam and 200 hours of actual work experience as a medical scribe are prerequisites for CMSP certification.
- Apprentice Medical Scribe Professional (AMSP) – The Certified Medical Scribe Professional certification method is comparable to the AMSP certification process.
The Bottom Line
Medical scribes are in high demand in today's medical industry. Hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices are looking for scribes to help document patient care. Scribe training courses and certification programs are available to help you get the skills you need to become a medical scribe.
Researching for online medical scribe courses is the best way to find a program that fits your needs. Many reputable programs offer scribe training and certification. Be sure to read reviews and compare pricing before enrolling in a course. With the proper training and certification, you can start your career as a medical scribe today!