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Oncology Data Specialist

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Cancer Center Services | Non-Exempt

Why You'll Love Working Here

As an Oncology Data Specialist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll play a vital role in maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and quality of cancer data that supports patient care, research initiatives, and regulatory compliance. Working closely with physicians, cancer care teams, and healthcare leaders, you'll help ensure that critical oncology information is collected, analyzed, and reported accurately to support improved patient outcomes.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented healthcare professional who enjoys data analysis, regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and contributing to the advancement of cancer care through accurate information management.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor recreation, vibrant community living, and outstanding quality of life.

  • Compensation: Hiring compensation ranges from $20.25 - $29.36/hour, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity.

  • Schedule: Full-Time Days, Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Applicable Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; wellness incentives; employee support programs; and professional development opportunities.

  • Benefits Eligibility: Applicable benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

  • Status: Non-Exempt

What You'll Do as an Oncology Data Specialist

Tumor Registry Management

  • Compile and maintain detailed records of cancer patients, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established standards and regulations.

  • Abstract and code relevant information from medical records, pathology reports, operative reports, and other clinical documentation to create and maintain a comprehensive tumor registry.

  • Track and follow patients diagnosed with malignancies throughout the continuum of care.

  • Ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of the cancer registry database.

Data Analysis & Reporting

  • Analyze and interpret cancer data to generate 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 efforts through accurate reporting.

  • Retrieve, analyze, and disseminate oncology data in accordance with professional standards and ethical guidelines.

Collaboration

  • Work closely with oncologists, pathologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate and timely collection of oncology data.

  • 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.

Regulatory Compliance

  • Stay informed of current regulatory requirements, data standards, and reporting guidelines related to cancer registry operations.

  • Ensure compliance with state, federal, accreditation, and Commission on Cancer requirements.

  • Participate in audits, surveys, and validation activities as needed.

Education & Training

  • Provide education and training to healthcare staff regarding cancer data collection, coding standards, and reporting guidelines.

  • Share knowledge related to advancements in oncology data management and registry practices.

  • Assist with ongoing quality assurance and registry improvement initiatives.

What We're Looking For

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Health Information Management, Healthcare Management, or a related field required.

Experience

  • Previous experience as a Cancer Registry Specialist or in a related role preferred.

  • Familiarity with cancer registry databases and electronic health records preferred.

Required Licensure & Certifications

  • Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) credential required within one (1) year of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Knowledge of oncology coding systems, cancer registry standards, and data abstraction practices.

  • Proficiency using 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.

  • Experience developing and maintaining quality control procedures preferred.

Physical & Work Environment

Physical Demands

  • 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.

Working Conditions

  • Office-based work environment within a healthcare setting.

  • Frequent interaction with physicians, healthcare professionals, Cancer Committee members, and administrative staff.

  • Potential exposure to sensitive and confidential patient information.

  • Adherence to organizational privacy, security, safety, and compliance standards.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Career Growth: Advance your career through professional development opportunities, continuing education, and support for specialty certifications.

  • Impactful Work: Play a key role in supporting cancer care quality initiatives, research efforts, regulatory compliance, and patient outcomes.

  • Community & Lifestyle: Boone is consistently recognized as one of North Carolina's premier mountain communities, offering exceptional quality of life and year-round recreation.

  • Meaningful Contribution: Help shape the future of cancer care by maintaining accurate data that drives quality improvement and treatment advancements.

  • Inclusive Culture: We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion while fostering a collaborative workplace where every team member is valued.

Ready to Make an Impact in Cancer Care?

Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian as an Oncology Data Specialist and help support the delivery of exceptional oncology services through accurate data management and reporting.

About UNC Health Appalachian

It's official. UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" Leapfrog Patient Safety Grade. UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation.

UNC Health Appalachian remains committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply "making life better."

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics, along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine.

It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve while supporting the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated and charity care to the citizens of North Carolina.

For more information, visit unchealth.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, contact [email protected].