Currently ODS-Certified

ODS Credential Maintenance

CE Requirements to Maintain the ODS Credential

Continuing education is necessary to maintain a high level of knowledge and skills in cancer registry practice. ODS-certified professionals must complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) credits every two years to maintain a certified status. After initial certification, advancing standards and changing job responsibilities may require ODS-certified professionals to update their knowledge and skills consistent with any new developments in cancer registry. Participation in re-certification demonstrates accountability to peers, physicians, healthcare facilities, and the public. The two-year CE cycle ends on December 31. Additional CE credits earned cannot be carried over to the next CE cycle. The deadline to submit required CE hours and pay the annual ODS certification maintenance fee is January 31. ODS credential holders are out of compliance when requirements are not met by the January 31 deadline.

NCRA’s Council on Certification established a 10 percent random audit of all submitted CE Summary Forms. If audited, ODS credential holders are asked to submit copies of attendance documentation of CE activities. The purpose of the audit is to ensure compliance with the CE requirements.

CE Eligibility

Eligible CE programs must present materials beyond the level required for certification of a cancer registrar. These continuing educational activities must improve/expand a certified registrar's existing base of knowledge or skills; they cannot be basic or fundamental courses. NCRA reserves the right to reject CE activities not deemed applicable to cancer registry practice. Learn more about eligibility of specific educational activities and restrictions.

ODS Annual Certification Maintenance

ODS credential holders are required to pay an annual certification maintenance fee. The fee for NCRA members is $35; the non-member fee is $145. NCRA members can pay the certification maintenance fee when they renew their membership. Annual certification maintenance fees are used by NCRA to support the costs of maintaining the ODS certification and related support systems.The fee ensures NCRA’s Council on Certification is able to:

Safely and securely maintain an individuals' ODS credentials
Provide timely replies to questions about the ODS credential program
Offer a formal process for employers to verify credentials
Host an online portal for CE submissions and retention of uploaded CE activity documentation
Review and process CE Summary Forms
Issue validation certificates to all ODS certified credential holders
Provide an electronic copy the of certification exam certificate
Publish a list of NCRA pre-approved education programs
Properly audit continuing education for ODS credential holders

NCRA’s Council on Certification established a 10 percent random audit of all submitted CE Summary Forms. If audited, ODSs are asked to submit copies of attendance documentation of CE activities. The purpose of the audit is to ensure compliance with the CE requirements.