ELTS is a strong supporter of the use of electronic medical records (EMR's) in healthcare.  However, when the medical language specialist is eliminated, quality is often compromised.  Technology advancement is a good thing for medicine, but not at the sacrifice of accuracy in the documentation.  ELTS saw a need to bring the gap between yesterday's transcription and tomorrow's EMR.  The answer was to enhance the skills of the transcriptionist and to provide education on the EMR and why it's good for medicine.

The solution was apparent:  Continue providing basic transcription skills through the SOAR Program, but enhance the curriculum to education and training regarding electronic health records.  Teach MLS's how to bring the data component to what they do, so that they now bring technology along with the good quality that's always been provided.  ELTS did this, and in 2008, re-launched the SOAR Program with an emphasis on the EMR.

The Eagle's Landing SOAR Program is a distance-learning curriculum for the novice that includes each and every aspect of the medical transcription profession.  New Modules include training in the electronic medical record, so that our graduates possess skills in both transcription and health information technology. Taking about 9 months to complete, students who complete the SOAR curriculum as well-poised to sit for the RMT Examination (Registered Medical Transcriptionist) and can begin the steps for certification in Health Information Technology or Electronic Health Records.  Those who successfully complete the training and demonstrate proficiency of skill are often offered Eagle's Landing positions when available.

ELTS also offers a bridge program for transcriptionists who are experienced in the field and want to expand their skills into the EMR.  This program covers all aspects of the EMR and its place in the patient care cycle.  Skills in today's documentation methods are covered, along with practicums for developing skills needed for EMR implementation.