Landing a job as a medical scribe can be a great stepping stone into healthcare, especially for students planning careers in medicine, nursing, or physician assistant programs. But before you get the role, you’ll need to make it through the interview. And knowing the questions asked in medical scribe interview scenarios can give you a real edge and help you walk in prepared.
Below, we’ll cover 15 real examples of questions for medical scribe interview prep, along with our tips of what to include in your answers.
Common medical scribe questions and how to answer them
Medical scribe interviews can range from casual conversations to structured sessions with detailed assessments. Most companies want to know if you’re reliable, fast at typing, eager to learn, and able to handle a fast-paced clinical environment. Common medical scribe questions include:
- Why do you want to become a medical scribe and what do you understand about the role?
Our tip: Highlight your interest in medicine and the opportunity to learn directly from physicians. Show you know that a scribe documents real-time patient encounters, supports physicians with administrative tasks, and works within strict confidentiality standards.
- What’s your typing speed and accuracy?
Our tip: Be honest. If you’re not sure, take a test online before the interviews. Most employers expect at least 60 WPM with high accuracy. To learn more about what WPM speed is and why it’s crucial in medical scribing, read our article.
- Can you describe a time you had to multitask under pressure?
Our tip: Use a clear example from your school or work. Maybe you balanced a heavy academic load with a part-time job? Explain how you stayed organized.
- How do you respond to feedback or correction?
Our tip: Emphasize openness and growth. Mention a time when feedback helped you improve a skill or avoid repeating a mistake.
- Are you familiar with medical terminology?
Our tip: Even if you’re still learning, show willingness and interest. Mention any coursework or self-study you’ve done, even informally.
- Have you worked in a clinical setting before?
Our tip: If yes, describe the role and what you learned. If not, connect your experience (e.g., customer service, fast-paced work) to the scribe role’s demands.
- How would you handle patient confidentiality?
Our tip: Acknowledge the seriousness of HIPAA. Show you know you should never share patient info outside the clinical setting or with unauthorized individuals.
- How would you fix a mistake in documentation?
Our tip: Say you’d admit it promptly, notify the physician, and follow proper procedures for correcting the record.
- Describe a time you worked on a team.
Our tip: Focus on how you contributed and what your team accomplished together. It’s worth highlighting communication and dependability.
- How do you prioritize tasks when everything seems urgent?
Our tip: Describe what you typically do to break things down, stay calm, and focus on what helps your team move forward.
- Do you prefer working independently or with others?
Our tip: You should know medical scribes often do both. Be honest and express your preferences but try to acknowledge the value of being part of a healthcare team.
- How do you stay focused during long periods of data entry?
Our tip: Mention your proven strategies like taking short mental breaks or using checklists to maintain attention.
- Have you had to learn something complex in your previous jobs?
Our tip: Share your challenges and how you approached them (i.e., asking questions, reviewing materials, etc.).
- What would you do if you’re unsure how to document something?
Our tip: It’s always better to clarify with the physician instead of guessing. Keep in mind that accuracy matters more than speed.
- Why should we choose you for this role?
Our tip: Tie together your work ethic and best assets like attention to detail, career interest in medicine, and eagerness to learn.
The takeaway
Preparing to answer questions for medical scribe interview panels isn’t just about knowing the right answer; it’s about showing how you think and expressing your readiness for a fast-paced and highly respected clinical role.
Want to take the next step? Browse our medical scribe openings and apply for the job!
