m.

You are still a baby!! The fact that you are concerned is admirable - but please - do not be hard on yourself. Melissa should know - and I agree - two years is what it takes to really feel comfortable in your MT skin.

Few hints on the more difficult docs that you might find helpful. Start a new folder named after each doctor you have a difficult time with. Every time you get one of their dictations, transcribe it - save it where it belongs - and then save another copy in their individual folder. Do you get corrections back? If so - when you do - open up the appropriate folder, go in and make the corrections to YOUR copy of the doc's dictations. If you have the time - perhaps bold or italicize the corrections that were made. Next time you get that doc - go into the folder and read through the previous reports. You will find that MOST docs say the same things over and over again. You'd be surprised at how many things you'll get when you see a previous dictation from Dr. X. Of course, if you can get samples that's a HUGE help - but there is also something about doing the work yourself, and adding the corrections in yourself. If you do not get corrections back, I would STILL keep the individual folders and save the work separately. All it takes is that one time for you to get what they're saying - chances are you'll get it every time afterwards.

Hang in there - you're doing just fine!!

Annie

You will find that most dict. from phys. that are hard to understand gets easier and easier the more you do them. Being able to transcribe difficult physicians is what really makes a good transcriptionist. I think that most transcriptionists would agree that it is the challenge of our work that keeps it new, interesting and exciting. If everyone was easy to do, it would be very boring. The "bad" dictators know they are "bad". And they are most appreciative of anyone willing to take the time and make the effort to learn their voices and they don't mind being asked what they said or what it means. By studying, using samples and net-working, you can learn quickly. Use your resources, and remember, we all had to start somewhere, and we all had lots of help. Good luck,

Hang in there, even if you work for a small hospital, minimum 1-2 years to keep up, and to be ready to work as independent, I'd say longer. You have someone there now to help you and utilize their help. It will get easier.

To the point about "harder versus easier", you'll find that the "harder" ones usually DO say the same things (as posted above) and they will eventually get to be the easiest of the bunch. Make your book (as above) and keep at it.

I learn every day. I've been doing this for over 20 years and a day NEVER goes by that I don't open a dictionary!!