Navigating the Path: Cancer Educators Seek Clearer Career Routes

Cancer educators play a big role in training the next generation of healthcare workers. But at big research-focused cancer centers, these educators often feel lost when it comes to career growth. A recent survey shed light on this issue, revealing that many feel their work is undervalued compared to research. The survey, conducted in early 2023, included responses from 208 faculty members. Out of these, 142 were clinical faculty, and 103 identified as cancer educators or were unsure about their role. Nearly half of these educators felt there was no clear path for advancement. This lack of clarity is a big deal, as it can impact their motivation and job satisfaction. Most respondents agreed that educational efforts are not given the same weight as research when it comes to recognition and promotions. This imbalance can make educators feel undervalued and overlooked. Interestingly, a majority believed that having a specific career path for educators would help address this issue. The survey also highlighted what educators think would make a difference. They want clear promotion criteria, protected time for educational activities, and better tools to track and measure their educational contributions. These changes could make a big impact on how educators are valued and recognized. The findings suggest that institutions need to do more to support and recognize the important work of cancer educators. By creating clearer paths for advancement and providing the necessary resources, these centers can help ensure that educators feel valued and motivated.