Throughout the pandemic, new Certified Tumor Registrars (CTRs) found it difficult to obtain the experience they needed for future roles in the highly specialized field of cancer registry. In January 2021, Registry Partners took a step toward helping fill the gap by introducing their all-new virtual CTR Internship Program.
Providing accepted interns with a full-time paid position including benefits, a curriculum-based training program designed by highly experienced Quality Consultants, virtual mentoring, increased proficiency in case abstraction, experience in standard-setter updates, and the opportunity to perfect text documentation skills, the Internship Program was designed based on client feedback and industry trend research.
“As a new CTR, working with Registry Partners has provided me with in-depth knowledge that I am truly grateful for,” shared Zakkiyah Yankene, a 2021 intern. “Registry Partners took the time to train me, site by site, and provided me with detailed information that truly exceeded my expectations. Throughout the process, I never once felt alone, and it has been an amazing experience.”
In addition to training certified CTRs, Registry Partners is also known for its industry-leading Mentoring Program available to its clients and their staff. This program offers non-credentialed client registrars customized 1:1 virtual mentoring, 24/7 access to an educational-based curriculum, and preparation for the CTR exam.
“The CTR career path is a very challenging one,” said Janet Gagnon, a UNC Hospital CTR. “Without Registry Partner’s Mentoring Program, I would not be where I am today. I was lucky enough to have Patricia Fordham as my mentor, her knowledge and experience of cancer registry was impressive. I was overwhelmed at the start of my mentorship, but Tricia was patient and stuck with me every step of the way. Getting much-needed feedback is not always easy but Tricia was constructive, kind, and direct.”
Both of these programs are reflective of the values and goals of Registry Partners.
“What we’re doing with the Internship and Mentoring Programs is meeting the demand for an innovative and dynamic approach to education and training in an ever-changing, fast-paced industry,” shared Donna Reynolds, president, and CEO of Registry Partners. “We understand the constraints on hospitals, health systems, and medical professionals to commit time and resources to train and educate someone entering the field. We serve as an extension of these healthcare organizations’ teams with the goal of providing the highest quality education and support possible.”
Newly certified CTRs interested in applying for the next program intake should inquire here. Healthcare organizations looking for more information on Registry Partners’ Mentoring Program can contact Erica Sabatini at 540.460.5520 or at ericasabatini@registrypartners.com.