Introducing ODS

The National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA) and its Council on Certification have updated the credential name of CTR, Certified Tumor Registrar, to ODS, Oncology Data Specialist. The new name better aligns with the evolving scope of practice of cancer registrars and current professional practice terminology. The use of the new credential began January 1, 2024; NCRA anticipates the adoption will take at least a full calendar year.  

NCRA has created an ODS Toolkit, available at the link below,  to help credential holders, human resources departments, affiliated organizations, and NCRA-accredited education programs make the transition. Organized by audiences, the toolkit includes guidance, text, and graphics to help with the adoption of the ODS credential.

 Click the below image and learn more!

Please read the press release and FAQs and view NCRA President Maria Teresa ‘MT’ Ramirez’s recorded message below to better understand the history and process behind the name change. Updates and any needed clarifications will be posted to this webpage, so please visit frequently.

NCRA will post an online ODS Tool Kit in fall 2023 to assist credential holders, facilities, central registries, state and national associations, standard setters, partner organizations, and federal agencies in adopting the new credential name.  There will be details on what NCRA will handle internally, such as updating certificates and records in the membership database; information on how credential holders can communicate the change, including graphics, such as the e-signature graphic above; guidance on updating publications, websites, job descriptions, and employment practices; sample language for use in newsletters, articles, and social media; and much more.

Questions? E-mail adminsupport@ncra-usa.org