In today's ever-changing healthcare landscape, medical scribes are becoming an increasingly important part of the healthcare team. As providers look for ways to boost their efficiency and reduce costs, many have begun to consider the idea of having scribes and transcriptionists work with them. This career can be a lucrative option for pre-med students as well as those who want to make a difference and enter the medical field. But can medical scribes work from home effectively? Keep reading to discover the pros and cons.
What do medical scribes do?
Medical scribes provide support to physicians and other healthcare providers by taking notes and entering patient information into the electronic health record (EHR). They may also assist with patient intake, provide patient education, and help with other administrative tasks.
Medical scribes help to streamline patient visits, moving healthcare providers from computer work to the bedside. This results in improved efficiency and patient satisfaction. The position is ideal for both pre-med students and those who want to start a career that will make a difference and will allow them to enter the medical sector.
How to start a career as a medical scribe? Qualifications & skills
Since you know who medical scribes are, it’s time to discuss what skills and qualifications are needed for the job.
Generally, to become a medical scribe you need to meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have a basic understanding of medical terminology and anatomy
- Be proficient in typing and computer skills
- Have strong communication, organizational, and multi-tasking skills
- Have a good understanding of HIPAA regulations
- Ability to work well with a team
- Display a professional attitude
As you can see, prior job experience in the medical field isn’t required, which makes the position ideal for everyone looking for a fresh start. If you want to learn more about how to become a medical scribe, read our article.
Is it possible to work from home as a medical scribe? Pros & cons
In the remote work era, an increasing number of people search for positions that would allow them to work from anywhere in the world. Medical scribes and transcriptionists aren’t an exception here.
So, can medical scribes work from home? Thanks to the advancements in technology, it’s possible to work from home as a medical scribe. Such professionals have access to patient information, notes, and other documents needed to complete the tasks. Plus, they can easily communicate with healthcare providers in real-time.
However, there are some pros and cons to consider. Pros:
- Flexibility – you can work when and where you want
- Reduced costs – no need to pay for an office space or commute
- More free time – you can work around your own schedule
Cons:
- Isolation – working from home can be lonely and isolating
- Technology issues – you'll need to equip yourself with the right devices and software
- Time management – for some people, it may be harder to stay on task without clear boundaries.
The takeaway
Medical scribes play an important role in the healthcare industry, and now it’s possible for them to work from home. This can be a great opportunity for those who want to enter the medical field without having to invest a lot of money or time. However, before making up your mind, it's important to be aware of the pros and cons of working remotely.
If you decide this option is the right fit for you, don't wait and start working from home as a medical scribe. Please check out our remote job opportunities!
