Oncology Data Specialist

UNC Health Appalachian•Boone, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oncology Data Specialist maintains the integrity, accuracy, and quality of cancer data supporting patient care, research, and regulatory compliance. The role compiles and maintains cancer patient records, abstracts and codes information from clinical documentation, tracks patients diagnosed with malignancies, and supports operation of the cancer registry database. The specialist analyzes and reports cancer data, including incidence, treatment outcomes, survival rates, and quality measures. The role collaborates with physicians, cancer care teams, and other healthcare professionals; supports research, accreditation, audits, and quality improvement; and helps ensure compliance with state, federal, accreditation, and Commission on Cancer requirements. The position also provides education and training on cancer data collection, coding, and reporting practices. This is a full-time, non-exempt, office-based position in Boone, North Carolina, scheduled for weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Health Information Management, Healthcare Management, or a related field.
Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) credential required within one year of hire.
Knowledge of oncology coding systems, cancer registry standards, and data abstraction practices.
Proficiency with healthcare information systems, electronic health records, and cancer registry software.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with physicians, Cancer Committee members, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Understanding of regulatory requirements related to cancer reporting and Commission on Cancer standards.
Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer.
Manual dexterity to operate office equipment, keyboards, and computer systems.
Occasional lifting of files, records, and materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience as a Cancer Registry Specialist or in a related role.
Familiarity with cancer registry databases and electronic health records.
Experience developing and maintaining quality control procedures.

Responsibilities

Compile and maintain accurate, complete cancer patient records in compliance with established standards and regulations.
Abstract and code information from medical records, pathology reports, operative reports, and other clinical documentation for the tumor registry.
Track patients diagnosed with malignancies throughout the continuum of care.
Support efficient operation and maintenance of the cancer registry database.
Analyze and interpret cancer data and produce reports and statistics for internal and external stakeholders.
Provide updates on cancer incidence, treatment outcomes, survival rates, and quality measures.
Support research initiatives, accreditation requirements, and quality improvement through accurate reporting.
Retrieve, analyze, and disseminate oncology data in accordance with professional standards and ethical guidelines.
Collaborate with oncologists, pathologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support accurate and timely data collection.
Partner with interdisciplinary teams to improve the quality and accessibility of cancer-related information.
Serve as a resource for cancer registry data and reporting requirements.
Stay informed about regulatory requirements, data standards, and reporting guidelines for cancer registry operations.
Ensure compliance with state, federal, accreditation, and Commission on Cancer requirements.
Participate in audits, surveys, and validation activities as needed.
Educate and train healthcare staff on cancer data collection, coding standards, and reporting guidelines.
Share knowledge about advancements in oncology data management and registry practices.
Assist with quality assurance and registry improvement initiatives.