Health Information Technologist how-to

How to Abstract a Cancer Case

Accurate abstracts support research.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Accurate abstracts support research. In short: identify; review; record, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Identify the reportable case.

  2. Review pathology and imaging.

  3. Record diagnosis and stage.

  4. Record treatment.

  5. Code data.

  6. Submit to the registry.

Safety reminders for health information technologists

  • Protect patient privacy
  • Use secure systems
  • Report breaches promptly
  • Follow retention rules

EHR · HIM · HIPAA · Release of information · Chart deficiency · Abstracting: see the full health information technologist glossary.

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