Oncology Data Specialist at WVU Medicine - Remote

Role Overview

The Oncology Data Specialist at WVU Medicine plays a vital role in managing cancer registry data. This remote position involves collecting, capturing, and meticulously reviewing data to ensure high quality. The specialist is responsible for identifying cases, collecting data, performing quality reviews in databases and EMR systems, and reporting on all reportable tumors and malignancies while strictly adhering to HIPAA regulations.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for an Oncology Data Specialist might include: * **Case Identification:** Reviewing medical records and pathology reports to identify potential cancer cases that meet reporting criteria. * **Data Abstraction:** Extracting relevant information from medical records, including patient demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities, and pathology results. * **Coding and Staging:** Assigning accurate codes to abstracted data using coding systems like STORE, SEER, and ICD-0. Completing and verifying cancer staging based on AJCC guidelines. * **Quality Review:** Conducting thorough reviews of data in the cancer registry database and electronic medical records to ensure accuracy and completeness. * **Reporting:** Preparing and submitting reports on cancer incidence, treatment, and outcomes to regulatory agencies and internal stakeholders. * **Compliance:** Ensuring all activities comply with HIPAA regulations and established cancer registry standards. * **Collaboration:** Working closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to gather and verify data. * **Continuous Learning:** Staying updated on changes to cancer registry standards, coding guidelines, and treatment protocols.

Why a Remote Role?

WVU Medicine offers this Oncology Data Specialist position as a remote role to attract top talent from across the country. A remote position allows you to work from the comfort of your home, providing greater flexibility and work-life balance. You'll be part of a dynamic team, contributing to important cancer research and patient care initiatives, without the daily commute.

Career Path

The Oncology Data Specialist role offers opportunities for career advancement within WVU Medicine. Potential career paths may include: * **Senior Oncology Data Specialist:** Taking on leadership responsibilities, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to process improvement initiatives. * **Cancer Registry Supervisor:** Overseeing the daily operations of the cancer registry, managing staff, and ensuring data quality. * **Data Analyst:** Analyzing cancer registry data to identify trends, patterns, and disparities in cancer incidence and outcomes. * **Cancer Registrar:** Obtaining the CTR (Certified Tumor Registrar) credential and advancing to more specialized roles within the registry.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for an Oncology Data Specialist at WVU Medicine is $55,000 to $85,000 per year. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off:** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) with employer matching. * **Life Insurance:** Basic and supplemental life insurance options. * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability coverage. * **Flexible Spending Accounts:** Health and dependent care FSAs. * **Health Savings Accounts:** HSAs with employer contributions. * **Employee Assistance Program:** Confidential counseling and support services. * **Wellness Programs:** Programs to promote health and well-being. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance for continuing education. * **Professional Development:** Opportunities for training and certification. * **Employee Discounts:** Discounts on WVU Medicine services and products.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. We value teamwork, collaboration, and respect. Our employees are dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and advancing medical knowledge. We encourage professional growth and development, and we offer opportunities for employees to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

How to Apply

To apply for the Oncology Data Specialist position, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q1: What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** A1: The minimum qualifications include an associate degree and Oncology Data Specialist (ODS) certification through the National Cancer Registrars Association. **Q2: Is prior experience required for this role?** A2: While not strictly required, three years of experience in a hospital registry performing data collection activities is preferred. **Q3: What coding systems are used in this role?** A3: Common coding systems include STORE, SEER, and ICD-0. **Q4: What is the work environment like in a remote role?** A4: The remote work environment at WVU Medicine is designed to be supportive and collaborative. You'll have access to the tools and resources you need to succeed, and you'll be part of a team that is committed to providing exceptional patient care. **Q5: Are there opportunities for professional development?** A5: Yes, WVU Medicine offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including training programs, certification assistance, and tuition reimbursement. **Q6: What are the key responsibilities of an Oncology Data Specialist?** A6: Key responsibilities include case identification, data abstraction, coding and staging, quality review, and reporting. **Q7: How does WVU Medicine ensure HIPAA compliance?** A7: WVU Medicine has strict policies and procedures in place to protect patient confidentiality and ensure HIPAA compliance. All employees receive training on HIPAA regulations and are expected to adhere to these guidelines. **Q8: What is the typical career path for this role?** A8: Potential career paths include Senior Oncology Data Specialist, Cancer Registry Supervisor, Data Analyst, and Cancer Registrar. **Q9: What benefits does WVU Medicine offer to its employees?** A9: WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, and disability insurance. **Q10: How does this role contribute to WVU Medicine's mission?** A10: This role contributes to WVU Medicine's mission by ensuring the accuracy and completeness of cancer data, which is essential for research, treatment planning, and improving patient outcomes.