Oncology Data Specialist

Oncology Data Specialist

Position Summary: The Oncology Data Specialist is responsible for the identification, collection, abstraction, analysis, maintenance, and reporting of cancer data in accordance with applicable state, federal, and accreditation requirements. The Oncology Data Specialist ensures the accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality of cancer registry information; supports cancer program quality improvement initiatives; facilitates regulatory reporting; and collaborates with physicians, clinical staff, and leadership to provide meaningful data that supports patient care, cancer surveillance, accreditation activities, and organizational decision-making. The Oncology Data Specialist complies with organizational policies, regulatory standards, and professional registry guidelines.

Qualifications: Degree in health information management, healthcare administration, nursing, or related healthcare field preferred. An active, unrestricted Oregon Registered Nurse (RN) license is required only for individuals hired into this position who hold a nursing degree and are practicing in an RN capacity. Oncology Data Specialist (ODS) certification required upon hire. Individuals hired without certification must obtain certification within two years of hire and meet applicable supervision requirements until certification is achieved. Experience with oncology registry operations, cancer data abstraction, staging systems, and follow-up procedures preferred. Knowledge of Commission on Cancer (CoC), Oregon State Cancer Registry, and applicable regulatory reporting requirements preferred.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Provide accurate, timely, and professional oncology data management services in accordance with organizational policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements. Identify, collect, abstract, analyze, and maintain reportable cancer case information from multiple clinical information sources. Perform case-finding activities through review of pathology reports, diagnostic reports, medical records, and other clinical documentation. Accurately assign and document cancer staging, treatment, outcomes, and follow-up information using applicable registry standards and guidelines. Maintain complete and confidential cancer registry records while ensuring compliance with HIPAA and organizational privacy requirements. Submit required cancer registry data to state and national reporting agencies in accordance with established reporting standards and timelines. Collaborate with physicians, nurses, quality leaders, and multidisciplinary teams to promote accurate documentation and data integrity. Participate in cancer committee activities, accreditation readiness efforts, and regulatory surveys as assigned. Develop, maintain, and support policies, procedures, and workflows related to cancer registry operations and compliance. Prepare reports, dashboards, presentations, and analyses to support quality improvement initiatives, program development, accreditation activities, and strategic planning. Conduct quality assurance reviews to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency of registry data. Identify opportunities for and actively participate in performance improvement activities that improve cancer care delivery, outcomes measurement, and regulatory compliance Perform case finding by reviewing pathology, cytology, diagnostic index reports and neoplasm lists in accordance with governmental guidelines. Prepare narrative reports and graphic presentations for special studies and annual reports. If the individual holds a nursing degree and maintains an active, unrestricted Oregon RN license, provide nursing care within the scope of licensure in the Hematology-Oncology Clinic/Infusion Center, as needed.

Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of cancer registry operations, oncology terminology, staging methodologies, treatment modalities, and disease processes. Knowledge of Commission on Cancer standards, state registry requirements, and applicable reporting regulations. Ability to interpret complex clinical documentation and abstract data accurately. Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple projects and reporting deadlines. Ability to prepare, analyze, and communicate data findings effectively. Skilled in the use of electronic health records, registry software, databases, and Microsoft Office applications. Skilled in critical thinking, problem solving, and quality assurance processes. Skilled in verbal and written communication with physicians, clinical staff, leadership, and external agencies. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive patient information appropriately.

Expectations for All Employees Support the organization's mission, vision and values by adhering to the behavioral standards of Grande Ronde Hospital. Comply with all laws and regulations affecting Grande Ronde Hospital. Be familiar with and adhere to the Personnel Policy Manual and the Code of Conduct and support the Grande Ronde Hospital Compliance Program. Effective communication skills and the ability work effectively with people from various backgrounds are critical. Mission: Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics will ensure access to high quality, cost-effective health care in a safe and customer-friendly environment for all those in need of our services. Vision: Quality health care is our mission. Patients are our passion. Values: Creativity, Compassion, Collaboration, Credibility.

Travel Required: No.