Your Analytical Mindset

Cancer Registrars are usually blessed with an incredible analytical mindset.  In most cases this is a good thing and helps to see the registrar through their day and collecting high-quality data used for cancer surveillance.  However, the cancer registrar needs to be aware of how the analytical mindset is perceived by others and learn to shape and deliver their thoughts in a more concise, “user-friendly” manner appreciated by physicians and staff.  For example: a physician may ask the cancer registrar to explain Collaborative Stage.  The Cancer Registrar could launch into a 3-5 minute explanation giving complete and accurate details on the entire history of Collaborative Stage.  Their intent may be well placed, but the information will likely be lost on the physician because it is too long, too detailed and too complex. 

Cancer Registrars will be far more successful in their work and interactions with others when they make sure that the wealth of knowledge and expertise they possess and the accumulation and analysis of information they share with others is delivered appropriately.  For example: frame your responses so that they solve the listener’s problem, convey a positive application or use of registry data, or answers their question simply, concisely and in as few words as possible.  Avoid using theory or “what if” scenarios and focus on what the physician’s practice needs are.  If the cancer registrar directs the focus away from ‘thinking’ and into ‘doing,’ they will be better served.