Frequently Asked Questions:
How does scribing work?
Medical scribing is where a trained medical scribe assists healthcare providers in documenting patient encounters. The scribe typically enters the exam room with the provider and records the details of the patient's visit in the electronic medical record (EMR) in real-time. During the visit, the scribe will record the patient's history, physical exam findings, and any diagnoses or treatment plans discussed by the healthcare provider. The scribe may also enter orders for labs, imaging, or other tests, as directed by the provider.
What is required to be a medical scribe?
We would say just work ethic and passion, but a typing speed of at least 50 WPM is nice too. We don’t stress too much about your background in med term/chronic illnesses since you learn that on the job. However, it never hurts if you do! You must be at least 18 years old and proficient in English as well. During the visit, the scribe will record the patient's history, physical exam findings, and any diagnoses or treatment plans discussed by the healthcare provider. The scribe may also enter orders for labs, imaging, or other tests, as directed by the provider.
Do medical scribes get paid?
Yes! This is not a volunteer opportunity.
What are the hours like?
At MSS, we only scribe in outpatient clinics. That means we work anywhere from Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM. We don’t do late nights or weekends (That means no emergency medicine).
Is there flexibility regarding hours?
MSS works with you on your schedule. For those within their gap year, we jump at those looking to be full-time, but we also understand that you may have other commitments and opportunities coming your way. At the least, we typically look for employees to have at least two full days during which they are able to work uninterrupted. If you have any questions or concerns about this, never be afraid to inquire further with any of our management team members.
What specialties does MSS work with?
We have 18 specialties we currently scribe for, including allergy/immunology, bariatric surgery, cardiology, colorectal surgery, dermatology, endocrine surgery, ENT, family medicine, gastroenterology, general surgery, hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, internal medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopaedic surgery, pediatric neurology, pulmonology/sleep medicine, rheumatology, sports medicine.
What hospital systems does MSS work with?
We scribe for providers within ProMedica, Mercy Health, and Toledo Clinic healthcare organizations.
What is the pay like?
Although not the highest-paid job out there, we make sure our scribes have the most competitive wage for scribes in the region. We are generous when it comes to raises, provide several opportunities for bonuses, and try to make sure our scribes are taken care of as well as they can be.
Do you offer application advising and what does it entail?
At MSS, utilizing a team of highly experienced individuals, we provide hands-on help with your professional health applications, whether that be to medical school, PA school, etc. This is limited to those who go above and beyond for MSS and our providers & those who are interested in additional direction. This includes review of your resume, personal statement, and secondaries/supplementals, as well as mock interviews and MCAT/GRE resources. Utilizing and obtaining this opportunity is fully up to the scribe.
Do you get to work for more than one healthcare provider?
Every scribe's experience is entirely unique to them. Initially, you may only be placed with one or two providers, dependent on your availability. This allows you to strengthen your skills, and garner those coveted relationships with providers in the Toledo area. With time, we may make adjustments to your placements, increasing the number of providers you have been with, but we promise to only make changes that are in your best interest.
How soon should I apply?
Now! We understand that you might want to wait until the “right time,” however, if you are at all interested in medical scribing, MSS urges you to apply. We feel that we excel in our ability to understand individuals' unique circumstances, and we will wait until it is the right time before placing you anywhere. That includes understanding the need to study for the MCAT, location-based issues, etc.