OL 456

Beginning Medical Transcription

Health

This course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of transcription of medical reports. Transcription is taking the spoken word and turning it into a written document. Case studies are provided so that the student will gain knowledge in the transcribing of various medical reports. Medical reports will be transcribed from ten individual case studies, each of which concerns an inpatient with a specific medical problem. There are between four and six reports within each case study. Students will be involved in the care of the patient from the date of admission through the date of discharge. Due to specialized theory and skills, students can expect to spend a minimum of 15 hours/week in this course. Prerequisites: Students MUST HAVE successfully completed: OL400 and OL401. Typing speed of at least 30 wpm, familiarity with a word processing package (MS Word, WordPerfect, KeyPro software), good punctuation and grammar skills. Computer Software Requirements: Windows, MS Word, and audio capabilities (speakers or ear phones). Transcription playback software will be a free download from the Internet (Traditional equipment will be simulated). Students may choose to purchase a foot pedal from the software download site (optional).

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Course Format

How is this online course delivered?

Learn Anytime
No live lectures—access pre-recorded content at your own pace.
Weekly Structure
Follow a clear, weekly course plan with set tasks.
Multimedia Content
Learn through modules, videos, forums, assignments, and quizzes.
24/7 Access
Log in anytime, anywhere with an internet connection.
Instructor Support
Facilitators are available to answer questions and provide feedback.
Independent Learning
It’s self-study—be ready to push yourself and stay on track.
Time Commitment
Expect around 5–12 hours per week, depending on your familiarity.
Sessions & Intakes

Upcoming Learning Sessions

Explore our available course intakes, designed to fit your schedule with flexible start dates. Whether you're studying online or in-class, each session is structured to provide a clear learning pathway.

CRN: 34667
Schedule: May 13, 2025 - August 19, 2025
Location: Online
Fee: $401.86
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Course Materials

Required Textbooks

The following textbooks are required for this course. Make sure you've acquired these materials before your course starts.

If any textbook appears to be missing or if you run into issues obtaining a textbook, please consult the complete textbook list or contact Online Learning immediately.

Canadian Medical Transcription

By: Lynn Berry, Deborah Janssens, Eugenia Kanellakos, Kathy Weatherdon

Publisher: Northrose

Edition: 2nd

ISBN: 9781989941690 etext: 9781989941720

Registration Code: CF-OL456
Course Code: LO-HLTH8130

The Book of Style & Standards for Clinical Documentation

By: Sims

Publisher: AHDI (Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity)

Edition: 4th

ISBN: 978-0-935229-64-6

Registration Code: CF-OL456
Course Code: LO-HLTH8130
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What are the admission requirements for online courses?

You must be 19 years of age or older to register for an OntarioLearn course. Students 18 years of age or less must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent to register.

Are there exams or assignments in online courses?

Exams and/or assignments are used in online courses to support learning. They are completed online within the course. The number of assignments and exams will vary by course.

Will I receive a certificate for taking an online course?

Certificates are not granted for taking individual courses. A copy of an official transcript can show course completion.

When do online courses start?

Most start January, May, and September and run for 14 weeks. Many courses also start at the beginning of the month. Find start dates for upcoming courses.

Does this course require a textbook?

Review our textbook website to find textbook and purchasing information.

What are the withdrawal processes for online courses?

Review our withdrawal webpage for details on withdrawal dates and how to withdraw.

I have registered for a course, where can I find information on next steps?

Our current student website has important information for students, including login information and final grades

Can I use this online course towards a course in my Confederation College program?

Many courses have been approved for equivalency towards Confederation College program courses. Review the equivalency list on our website to find more information.