From the Beginning

I am a medical transcriptionist and have been for over 30 years.  I don't think anyone says they want to be a medical transcriptionist when they grow up!  I had never even heard of that profession until quite by accident when a friend needed help at the rehab clinic where she was working as a speech pathologist.  I had graduated from college ready to work in the legal arena, but with zero experience, no one would hire me. Well--there was this one interview that was a bit strange.  The interview with the attorney went okay, but when he went back into his office to take a call, his 2 secretaries said I did not want to work there.  Hmmmm, were they jealous of me?  There I was scared out of my mind, shy enough that my voice was barely a whisper when I spoke, and looking more like I was 12 than 20.  Since this is not about my short-lived legal career, suffice it to say I did not take that job, and as luck would have it, I found out the guy was not so much on the legal side of his profession.  Everything happens for a reason!! 

My speech path friend heard I was in need of work, and she suggested I interview at her clinic.  I immediately said that was not possible because I did not have an ounce of medical knowledge to bring to the table.  She said as long as I could type, they would more than likely hire me sight unseen because of needing someone so badly.  That did work in my favor, considering I was needing a job so badly! 


Me at work at St. Thomas Hospital around 1980. 


Yes, I got hired, and thus began my medical transcription career.  It was a lucky circumstance for me because the terminology was not very complicated.  The reports were evaluations and progress reports for speech path, audiology, OT, and PT.   It turned out to be a great job that lasted for almost 2 years.  A lot happened in those years, and next time, I'll tell you all about it!  Until then, enjoy your day!