Cancer Registrars are the subject matter experts and curators of cancer data who gather, classify, maintain and analyze cancer health information. This clinical, scientific, and quality performance data is used by physicians, researchers, hospitals, and cancer centers to improve the delivery of care and quality of life for patients and their communities.
Most cancer registrars work in hospitals or cancer centers. But they also work in state or central cancer registries, regional or special population registries, with any of the standard-setting or government agencies, software vendors, pharmaceutical companies, insurance agencies, research or professional organizations, or staffing firms. Registrars may be employed by the organization they work for or are self-employed, independent contractors. Some Registrars work onsite at their facility and others may work remotely, or a combination of both these settings.
According to the National Cancer Registrar’s Association (NCRA), the job outlook for cancer registrars is quite good. However, the traditional roles that Cancer Registrars have performed in the past is changing due to technology and the increased demand to collect and analyze higher volumes of data.
As with any career, it is important that someone entering the profession as a new Registrar has the proper training and background. Because the demand for Registrars focuses on experienced healthcare professionals it may be challenging for someone who is trying to enter the field without any experience. It is absolutely essential that you network with other cancer registry peers and professional associations in order to establish your credibility and to identify jobs and opportunities for employment.
Another key element to address in your career path is to be flexible and willing to learn and acquire the skills and competencies and then work your way through the career pathways. It may be necessary to take an entry-level job, working onsite, before you can progress to a remote position or one with a higher level of pay. No matter what your pathway may be, the experience and skills you gain in each role will serve you well in the future. Managers and employers are much more willing to hire a trainee if they are willing to learn the profession from the “ground floor up.”
To become a cancer registrar formal education is required and the pathway you need to take will be based on your prior educational achievements and background. There are many Cancer Information Management (CIM) programs available online in the United States. The program you choose should be accredited by the National Cancer Registrar’s Association (NCRA). Refer to the NCRA Schools webpage for a list of their accredited programs.
Professional and state cancer registry associations also offer education and training for both new and experienced cancer registrars. There are a number of other resources available to you as you begin your journey to a new career as a cancer registrar.
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