How to Become a Remote Medical Scribe

Have you wondered about how to become a medical scribe and work from home? Medical scribes are the unsung heroes of healthcare, working behind the scenes to ensure the documentation of crucial details during patient visits is meticulously handled. If you’re intrigued by a new career path in healthcare and want to explore the option of working remotely, this blog will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a medical scribe.

Considering a transition into the healthcare industry? Look no further—seeking a role as a medical scribe might be the ideal fit for you! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the job’s responsibilities, benefits, required skills, and how you can find companies that are hiring.

Understanding the Role of a Medical Scribe

Medical scribes play a crucial role in documenting what physicians and healthcare providers say during patient interactions, either in person or virtually. This essential work requires a solid grasp of medical terminology, excellent communication capabilities, and stellar typing skills.

Here’s a glimpse into the day-to-day duties of a medical scribe:

• Real-time documentation of medical encounters between healthcare providers and patients.
• Accurate recording of patient history, assessment, treatment plans, and follow-up instructions in Electronic Health Records (EHR).
• Compliance with HIPAA regulations to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Providing access to lab and radiology results for healthcare providers.
• Assisting with medical coding for diagnoses and procedures in certain settings.
• Occasionally providing transcription services based on audio recordings, though this is rare.

Medical scribes can work in diverse settings including hospitals, medical offices, or from home. Schedules can vary widely based on the work environment—practitioner offices might follow a standard 9-5, while hospitals may require more flexible hours.

Medical Scribe vs. Medical Transcriptionist: Key Differences

Though both roles are vital, the primary difference lies in real-time interaction. Medical scribes document patient encounters in real-time, while medical transcriptionists work independently to transcribe recorded medical reports into text without needing direct interaction with patients or minimal interaction with staff.

Compensation and Flexibility

According to Salary.com, medical scribes earn a median hourly wage of $19 or roughly $39,520 per year. Although the earnings might not be sky-high, the job offers flexibility with full-time, part-time, and work-from-home options. Additionally, some companies might provide in-house training and benefits for full-time employees.

Skills Needed to Excel as a Medical Scribe

Before you embark on the journey to become a medical scribe, it’s important to understand the key skills required:

• Time Management: This role is fast-paced and requires the ability to manage time effectively while typing at least 40-60 words per minute.
• Attention to Detail: Accurate documentation is critical as it directly impacts patient care.
• Tech-Savvy: Proficiency with EHR software and basic computer programs is essential.
• Bedside Manner: Though behind the scenes, having a compassionate approach is beneficial when interacting with patients.
• Excellent Communication: Clear, concise communication is needed for effective documentation and interaction with healthcare professionals. Being bilingual is a plus!

Benefits of Becoming a Medical Scribe

Valuable Medical Experience

Gaining experience in the healthcare industry without extensive prior experience is a significant benefit. The role can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced healthcare careers, offering insights into various medical specialties.

Reduced Stress Levels

Compared to other direct patient care roles, being a medical scribe is less stressful since it focuses primarily on administrative and documentation tasks.

Flexibility and Freedom

Working as a medical scribe provides the unique opportunity to work remotely. This flexibility allows you to maintain a work-life balance as long as you have a private space and adhere to patient confidentiality requirements.

High Job Demand

There is a strong demand for medical scribes due to the increasing use of EHR by healthcare providers. The role allows doctors to focus on patient care while medical scribes handle the documentation.

Training to Become a Medical Scribe

The path to becoming a medical scribe offers several options. Some companies provide in-house training, requiring only a high school diploma or GED, strong communication skills, and a passion for healthcare.

Preferences may be given to those enrolled in pre-health career tracks or possessing a certification in EHR. Familiarity with medical terminology and anatomy is typically required.

Online training courses are also available. For instance, CareerStep offers an industry-recognized medical scribe training program that can be completed online in a few months. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to take the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) exam.

Finding Remote Medical Scribe Positions

Many reputable companies offer remote medical scribe positions. You can also explore job boards like FlexJobs, Indeed, and LinkedIn. Be cautious of scams and verify any job listing directly through the company’s website.

Here are some companies hiring remote medical scribes:

1. Athreon

Athreon offers part-time and full-time positions with competitive pay and benefits for full-time employees.

2. DeepScribe

DeepScribe hires remote medical scribes. Requirements include a high school diploma, a typing speed of 40 WPM, and an Apple computer.

3. iScribeHealth

iScribeHealth offers training and pays an hourly rate of $11 per hour.

4. ProScribe

ProScribe hires scribes in various states, offering paid training and the potential for career advancement.

5. Vesta Healthcare

Vesta Healthcare offers positions for certified bilingual medical scribes with experience.

6. Vituity

Vituity hires experienced medical scribes for remote positions with benefits.

7. Scribe America

Scribe America offers numerous remote positions with flexible shifts and competitive pay.

8. Scribe-X

Scribe-X provides paid training and mentorship opportunities, ideal for those pursuing advanced healthcare careers.

9. IKS Health

IKS Health offers global medical scribe positions with comprehensive training and employee benefits.

How to Become a Medical Scribe: Conclusion

If you seek an entry-level job in the healthcare sector that allows you to work from home, becoming a medical scribe could be your perfect match. With several pathways to enter this field, you can swiftly transition into a rewarding career. Although the initial pay might not be high, there are opportunities for growth, and the experience gained can open doors to other healthcare careers, such as nursing or medical coding and billing—all of which can offer remote work options.

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Originally published September 7, 2022. Content updated September 2024.