The STS National Database Data Manager Collaborative (DMC) pairs data managers who are seeking advice related to data abstraction. After submitting a sign-up form, you will be matched based on registry type, STS-certified software vendor, and other factors. STS will share your contact information with other data manager(s) to facilitate an ongoing professional relationship.

To apply, please fill out the sign-up form. You will be notified once you have been matched.

Review the Frequently Asked Questions below for more information about the program. For questions, contact the STS Database Operations Team. 

Note: The opinions and advice provided through this program are those of its individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

Join the DMC

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the STS National Database Data Manager Collaborative?

The STS National Database Data Manager Collaborative pairs data managers who are seeking advice related to data abstraction. STS will share contact information with data manager collaborators to facilitate an ongoing professional relationship.

What are the benefits of participating in this program?

Participating in the STS National Database Data Manager Collaborative will provide functional support for your role. Ask and answer pressing questions related to data abstraction and more. You will create new connections, build your network, and be part of a professional community. 

I participated in the STS National Database Mentorship Program. Do I need to sign up for this program?

Yes, please submit a new sign-up form to participate in the STS National Database Data Manager Collaborative.

What kinds of questions can I ask?

Workflow Questions

  • How do I perform my job as a data manager?
  • What are the general rules for data abstraction? 
  • How do I collaborate with my surgeons? 
  • How often should I meet with my surgeons?
  • Which cases should I review with my surgeons?
  • When should I submit a clinical FAQ? 

Education

  • What resources are available to me? 
  • Where is this resource located? 
  • How do I use this resource?

Documentation 

  • How do I read a chart? 
  • How do I read a cath note? 
  • How do I read an op note?

Data and Reports 

  • How do I use my site’s raw data?
  • How do I read my site’s reports? 
  • How do I use my site’s reports?
  • How do I use my site’s report for the US News Survey?
  • When I meet with my site’s administration or leadership, what data and reports should I share? 

Software Vendors

  • Is this an error in the data specifications, or is this an error with my vendor?

CHSD Vendors 

  • What is the difference between the long list and the short list? 
  • What impact do the long list and short list have on my data?

Intermacs/Pedimacs 

  • Questions about adverse events
  • How do I know what measures and variables to use for joint commission? 

General 

  • Questions about basic anatomy and physiology
  • I have a question about STS/IQVIA. Whom should I contact at STS?
How do I sign up?

Complete and submit the sign-up form. 

I just signed up. When will I be paired?

Once your sign-up form is received, the STS team will follow up with you within 3-5 business days. Should there be a waitlist, we will pair you as soon as a match becomes available.

I abstract for more than one registry. Can I be paired with a data manager for each one?

Yes, please submit one sign-up form per registry. 

I prefer 1:1 collaboration. Can I be paired with only one other data manager?

Yes, please select 1:1 as your preferred learning style in the sign-up form. 

I prefer to collaborate in groups. Can I be paired with a group?

Yes, please select group learning (3 or more) as your preferred learning style in the sign-up form.

How often should we meet?

Once paired, discuss how often you would like to meet. Set up a schedule that works best between you, whether you prefer to meet once a month or raise questions as they come. 

How should we meet?

Once paired, discuss your preferred communication style. Send questions by email, discuss over the phone, or meet virtually by video conference. Ensure that all your meeting software is up to date and supported by your site. Ask your IT department before downloading any new software or apps. 

I have a question and can’t get in touch with my paired data manager(s). What should I do?
I would like to be paired with a different data manager. What should I do?

To be re-paired, contact the STS Database staff team. 

I no longer require assistance through this program. What should I do?

If you would like to leave the program, contact the STS Database staff team. 

The data manager I was paired with is no longer active in this program. What should I do?

To be re-paired, contact the STS Database staff team.