Question 1

What is a medical scribe?

Accepted Answer

A medical scribe is a specially trained individual who documents patient encounters in real time in the electronic health record (EHR) at the direction of a physician. Medical scribes are responsible for capturing the patient's history, chief complaint, review of systems, physical exam, and assessment and plan. They also ensure that all required components of a chart are completed and documented accurately.

Question 2

What does a medical scribe do?

Accepted Answer

A medical scribe is a person who is trained to record the notes and information of a doctor or other healthcare provider during patient encounters. The scribe is responsible for entering information into the patient's medical record in real-time, such as patient histories, physical exams, lab results, and treatment plans. The goal is to improve the efficiency of the healthcare provider by reducing the amount of time spent on paperwork.

Question 3

What qualifications are needed to become a medical scribe?

Accepted Answer

The qualifications needed to become a medical scribe vary depending on the employer and the specific job requirements. Generally, employers require applicants to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may also require a college degree, while others may prefer applicants with medical terminology and healthcare experience. Good communication, organization, and computer skills are also important qualifications for medical scribes.

Question 4

What type of training is required for medical scribes?

Accepted Answer

Medical scribes typically receive on-the-job training from a physician or seasoned scribe. This training typically consists of a combination of lectures, hands-on practice, and observation of physician-scribe interactions. Scribes may also receive additional training from their employer on topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, medical billing, and HIPAA compliance.

Question 5

What type of education do I need to become a medical scribe?

Accepted Answer

To become a medical scribe, you would typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer applicants with a college degree in a relevant field, such as healthcare or medical transcription. Additionally, many employers may require completion of a medical scribe training program.

Question 6

Is there a certification process for medical scribes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a certification process for medical scribes. The American College of Medical Scribe Specialists (ACMSS) offers a certification program for medical scribes. The certification process includes an online exam and a practical exam.

Job Outlook for a Medical Scribe

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