Cancer Information Management, A.A.S.

A45130  Total credit hours: 66

The Cancer Information Management curriculum is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a cancer data collection system that is consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and accreditation requirements.

Students will analyze health records according to standards set by various agencies, compile, maintain, monitor, and report cancer data for research, quality management, facility planning and marketing, abstract and code clinical data, and obtain survival data through yearly follow-up

Graduates may be eligible to take the national certifying examination given by the National Cancer Registrars Association to become a Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR). Employment opportunities include health care facilities, data organizations, and government agencies.

Upon successful completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Display professionalism by projecting a positive attitude, working as a team member, showing initiative and responsibility, and displaying sensitivity to cultural diversity.
2. Compile, maintain, monitor, and report cancer data for research, quality management, facility planning, and marketing.
3. Integrate legal and ethical principles into job responsibilities.
4. Demonstrate the academic knowledge and technical skills for the entry-level cancer registrar.
5. Perform statistical analysis related to descriptive and analytic epidemiology and cancer surveillance.
6. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills with consumers and coworkers.

Accreditation

The Cancer Information Management education program in Cancer Registry Management at Davidson County Community College is accredited by the National Cancer Registrars Association, 1340 Braddock Place, Suite 203, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Technical Standards

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of cancer information management. These technical standards are published in the application for admission to health programs and the program student handbook. Cancer Information Management Technology Technical Standards (PDF opens in new window)  

Admission Requirements

CIM prefix courses begin the fall semester of odd years.  Students must have completed BIO-168, BIO-169, COM-120, ENG-111, HIT-110. HUM-115, MAT-143 (or higher), MED-121, MED-122, and PSY 150 prior to taking CIM prefix courses.

Transfer Courses

The decision regarding transfer credit for CIM courses is made by the Program Director and Associate Dean, Health, Wellness, and Public Safety, in consultation with members of the Cancer Information Management faculty. Syllabi for courses for which credit is requested may be required.

Progression Requirements

A student must earn a grade of “C” or better in all ENG, HIT, MED, CIM, and BIO prefix courses in order to progress in the program.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check, drug screen, and up-to-date immunizations are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility denies a student’s participation in clinical experiences in that clinical agency, the student will not be able to progress in the program.

NOTE: Special legal requirements exist which may limit the ability of an individual to obtain clinical experience, employment, or certification in the Cancer Information Management field. Prospective students should obtain additional information from a College counselor or program faculty member prior to seeking admission.