To thrive as an Oncology Abstractor, you need a strong knowledge of medical terminology and cancer pathology, often supported by experience in health information management or clinical data abstraction. Familiarity with cancer registry software (such as SEER*DMS or OncoLog), ICD/O coding, and certified tumor registrar (CTR) credentials are commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written communication are key soft skills for accurately translating complex medical records into clear, usable data. Mastery of these competencies ensures high-quality data collection, essential for research, quality improvement, and compliance in oncology programs.