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What does a Medical Scribe do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A medical scribe is a person who helps to record and transcribe the medical notes of a physician or other health care provider. The scribe may also help to keep track of lab results and other medical records.

Medical Scribe job duties include:

  • Act as a liaison between the physician and patient
  • Document patient encounters in the medical record
  • Transcribe physician orders
  • Prepare charts for physician review
  • Schedule appointments and diagnostic tests
  • Obtain patient medical histories
  • Take patient vitals and document them in the chart
  • Assist with minor procedures
  • Collect laboratory specimens

Medical Scribe Job Requirements

There is no formal education requirement for medical scribes, although many have at least an associate’s degree. Some scribe programs may require certification, but it is not always necessary. Experience is typically the most important factor in getting hired as a medical scribe. Many scribes have previous experience working in a medical office or hospital, and some have even shadowed physicians before becoming a scribe.

Medical Scribe Skills

  • Medical terminology
  • EHR
  • Transcription
  • Patient interaction
  • Detail oriented
  • Multitasking
  • Strong writing skills
  • Computer skills
  • Knowledge of medical procedures
  • HIPAA compliance
  • Time management

Related: Top Medical Scribe Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Medical Scribe

There is currently no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to become a medical scribe. However, there are some key steps that anyone interested in this career can take to increase their chances of success. Perhaps the most important step is to gain experience in the medical field, either through working as a medical assistant or in another capacity. Having first-hand experience with patient care will be invaluable when it comes time to work as a scribe. In addition, it is also important to develop strong writing skills and learn as much as possible about medical terminology. Both of these areas can be addressed through online courses or by taking classes at a local community college. Finally, it is also important to be aware of the different types of scribes that are available and to choose the one that best fits your skillset and goals. For example, there are scribes who work exclusively with physicians and those who work with both physicians and patients. There are also scribes who specialize in specific areas of medicine, such as emergency medicine or surgery. By taking the time to research the different options and by gaining relevant experience, you will be well on your way to a successful career as a medical scribe.

Related: Medical Scribe Resume Example

Related: Medical Scribe Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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