MT in a Saudi Hospital
There are a lot of unexpected things that are very different from what it used to be working as an MT in the Philippines.
- First, majority of hospitals still do text-to-text transcription. I did asked most of my friends who are also working in various cities in the kingdom, and they confirmed that.
- Secondly, yes there is an audio-to-text transcription but mostly using microtapes and recorders. I never imagined that in this part of the world, these things still exists. (Even majority of cars here still have the stereos using the tapes.)
Optimism Being In Saudi Arabia
It’s been almost 1-1/2 years I’ve been working here in Jeddah.
I never knew it would be this way.
I never imagine myself working in a not so distant far place from home.
(Whew! A 12-hour flight from Manila to Jeddah.)
Since this is my first time working abroad, I am trying to be optimistic about it.
I know I will miss home especially my daughter who just started grade school.
It’s a bit difficult because I give up my comfort zone, so to speak as my friends told me, just for the very little difference of earnings I will get.
I sacrificed. I obliged myself to be in new place where I know very different from what I used to be. Maybe, I also need a new environment.
I AM EXCITED BUT WORRIED.
CERTIFIED OFW
- Apply through the agency, making sure all the necessary documents ready. A ready passport is an advantage. Make sure the expiry is way beyond the employment contract (usually 2 years in the Middle East).
- Process Documents for authentication like the certificate of employment, PRC or school credentials, TESDA certificate if any.
- Make sure your visa is ready that is provided by the agency.
- Pass the medical exam. You will be asked to be subjected to thorough medical exam to a clinic endorsed by the agency..
- Attend PDOS (Predeparture Orientation Seminar). This is a requirement by the POEA.
- Make sure also that the agency processed your PhilHealth and OWWA and OEC. This is to be renewed also in a yearly basis.
- Of course, collect money for your placement fee (As much as possible, look for agency that will not collect placement fees. It is common now that usually No Placement Fee is Collected).
- Review your contract of employment and ask all questions in your mind.
- Few days before departure, make sure you have with you your E-ticket.
- Get ready to pack your luggage as lightly as possible.
- Then say Goodbye to your love ones (the most important and not easy part = ) …..
- Now, you can now fly and work abroad – a certified OFW.
A Personal MT Journey
My journey as a transcriptionist began upon introduction by a very close friend of mine. It was a quick decision that I made in an aim of obtaining a high paying job rather than staying on my previous career as a Food Technologist.
So, I took up the MT course and was able to have appropriate on-the-job training and eventually landed on a job. Now, I’ve been working here in Jeddah, KSA trying to get more and more experience and knowledge.
This is kind of a summary. Will talk more and more….
My First Blog in Saudi Arabia
By this time, I’m working in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as a transcriptionist.
Being a transcriptionist in a military hospital here in Saudi Arabia is very challenging one. I know this will be a great experience.
I will write more next time because I wouldn’t like this opening blog here in Saudi Arabia take that long.
Bye for now and happy reading!
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