We are at it again. On one hand, we tell you that the medical transcription profession allows an easy entry, without any academic or professional prerequisites, and on the other, we have a post that talks about prerequisites. Well, we maintain that one does not need a formal qualification or any experience to enter the field. However, not all Tom, Dick, or Harry can become medical transcriptionists. One needs to possess a certain aptitude to enter the profession. This aptitude defines the prerequisites for the profession. If you are interested in a career in the field, answer the following questions

• Do you have good command over the English language?
• Is your typing speed above-average?
• Are you comfortable with the word processor?
• Are you comfortable handling the computer?
• Are you disciplined enough to work independently?
• Are you willing to spend time and effort in updating your medical knowledge everyday?
• Are you willing to refer to external materials and research in case of a difficult medical record?
• Can you analysis information logically to render meaning to medical records?
• Can you commit to stringent daily deadlines?
• Can you focus for long hours?
• Can you cope with the stress of handling incomprehensible recordings and difficult reviewers?
• Can you keep yourself motivated?

If your answer to any of these questions is in the negative, you should re-consider your decision. The medical transcription profession is a challenging one. The profession does not allow errors, thereby keeping transcriptionists on their toes. Make sure you have what it takes before you get into the profession.