Oncology Data Specialist II

Summary

Join Northwestern Medicine as an Oncology Data Specialist II and contribute to advancing cancer treatments and research. This senior-level role requires the Oncology Data Specialist certification (ODS-C) and a strong background in Cancer Registry standards. You will work independently, collaborate with physicians and staff, and ensure accurate and timely data abstraction for all reportable cancer cases. Responsibilities include medical record review, data entry, and maintaining cancer program accreditation requirements. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading healthcare system.

Requirements

• ODS-Certified
• Minimum of 3 years
• Microsoft Office software advanced training/proficiency (Level 2 Excel/Word, PPT basic)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Responsibilities

• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with physicians and staff at all levels of seniority to define and achieve common aims
• Ensure complete, accurate and timely data abstraction for all NM reportable cancer cases
• Review all case finding resources to identify reportable cases and enter cases into suspense, such as ICD-10 disease indices, path reports, cytology reports, autopsy reports, dermatology office reports, ambulatory surgery reports, as relevant to their assigned facilities
• Abstract information from patients' electronic and/or manual medical records according to the Commission on Cancer standards
• Consult with physicians, physician offices, and outside facilities to obtain incomplete information or clarify discrepant documentation
• Understands current oncology treatment guidelines; document reasons for non-concordance of treatment guidelines within the abstract
• Extensive knowledge in finding follow-up on eligible cases per ACoS standards by utilizing EPIC system, physician contact, outside facility contact, and if needed, patient contact
• Proficiency in determining current cancer status, progression/recurrence of disease, and cause of death along with distinguishing first course vs subsequent treatments; to provide accurate survival information on all cancer sites
• Meets productivity at 20 cases per week (6-month average) and quality standards at 95% accuracy (6-month average)
• Understands department priorities and navigates work independently
• Supports special projects (e.g. clear edits for data submission)
• Uses concise and effective written and verbal communication
• Assist with cross coverage in daily department activities as needed to ensure smooth workflow among individuals and as a team
• Identify improvement opportunities and participate in improvement activities as set forth by coordinators or manager
• Assist with data reporting and requests from the coordinators or manager
• Completes other duties assigned by manager

Preferred Qualifications

• 5 years of Oncology Data Specialist experience
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Technology Management or similar, or commensurate skills and work experience
• Experience with Epic, Mosaiq and Cancer Registry Software systems

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Tuition reimbursement
• Loan forgiveness
• Lifecycle benefits