Description
Cancer Registrar / Oncology Data Specialist (ODS-C)
Aptive Resources
Aptive Resources is seeking Oncology Data Specialists (ODS-C) to support cancer registry operations within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA).
The selected candidate will perform cancer case finding, abstraction, follow-up, and data quality activities using VA-approved cancer registry systems. This role ensures complete, accurate, and timely cancer data reporting in accordance with VA, national registry, and accreditation standards.
Key Responsibilities
Cancer Case finding & Abstraction
Perform cancer case finding, accessioning, and abstraction of oncology cases in VA-approved registry systems
Complete the full NAACCR dataset, including VA-specific fields
Document and support coded data through detailed text for: Patient history & physical exams
Imaging, scans, and procedures
Laboratory and diagnostic results
Pathology findings
Treatment and surveillance
TNM staging and prognostic factors
Assign AJCC TNM staging in accordance with current AJCC and SEER guidelines
Complete all required physician TNM staging fields
Reporting & Compliance
Ensure data supports reporting to: VA Central Cancer Registry (VACCR)
State Cancer Registries
American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC)
Maintain compliance with: NAACCR, SEER, AJCC, CoC
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
ICD-O coding standards
Apply appropriate coding manuals based on diagnosis year
Follow-Up & Data Maintenance
Maintain and update patient follow-up data, including: Vital status
Disease status
Supporting documentation
Update records for deceased patients or new primary cancers
Quality Assurance & Data Integrity
Track and report completed cases to leadership
Submit periodic reports using VA-approved trackers including: Facility ID, accession number, diagnosis details, staging, treatment, and follow-up data
Participate in quality reviews and cancer committee activities as requested
Correct identified data issues within required timelines
Security & Confidentiality
Maintain strict compliance with: Privacy Act of 1974
VA security policies and training requirements
Federal data protection standards
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
ODS-C credential in good standing
Minimum 2+ years of Oncology Data Specialist (ODS) experience OR at least 2 years of hands-on cancer abstraction experience (ODS candidates eligible if experience is focused in abstraction)
Demonstrated experience with: Cancer case abstraction
AJCC staging
Registry data standards (NAACCR, SEER, etc.)
Ability to maintain certification through continuing education
Ability to complete all VA-required training
