What Professional Credentials Are Required Of Medical Transcriptionists?

To become a medical transcriptionist there is no requirement to acquire any type of professional credentials. There is no licensing process, however, certifications are offered for anyone who wants to seek them. They are completely voluntary.

Here's a rundown of the most popular professional credentials available to medical transcriptionists:

1. Registered Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) - If you have less than two years experience in acute care then you can be awarded an RMT, Registered Medical Transcriptionist, credential. You have to pass a Level 1 exam and prove your knowledge of medical transcription.
2. Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT) - One level higher than the RMT, the CMT is available to medical transcriptionists with more than two years experience in acute care. You have to pass a Level 2 exam and upon completion of the exam you are considered an expert in your field.
3. Certified Medical Transcriptionist - Retired (CMT-R) - Awarded to retired CMTs upon request.

These credentials are not required to be a member of the medical transcription profession. They are completely voluntary, however, possessing them can add a level of credibility to your professional expertise. It will make you more competitive in a growing marketplace.

The above credentials are awarded by the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI), a professional association serving the medical transcription industry. The organization is responsible for setting the standards for medical transcription professionals and quality documentation. Their credentialing criteria are based on the standards for all medical transcriptionists, but if you wish to seek credentialing for your medical transcription expertise then you must first be trained.