Apprentice Spotlight: Lexi Benson – Success Story

Lexi Benson’s professional journey in healthcare began in 2016, when she joined CommonSpirit (formerly Dignity Health) in Rancho Cordova as a call center representative. She eventually transitioned into roles involving front desk operations, patient check-ins, and referrals and authorizations. With her Medical Assistant certificate already in hand, she came to realize that her passion leaned more towards healthcare administration rather than direct patient care. After pursuing numerous administrative roles, she soon became interested in medical coding; she loved the challenge of both learning new procedures and staying up-to-date on advancements in healthcare.  

Lexi went on to complete a medical coding program and earned a certificate, though without hands-on experience, breaking into the field proved to be difficult. At around the same time, the SEIU-UHW West & Joint Employer Education Fund was offering a Coding Registered Apprenticeship program. The program was designed to help employees transition into coding roles and provided the kind of structured training and on-the-job experience she needed to land a Medical Coder I position. 

"Be open to entry-level opportunities. They can be steppingstones to a fulfilling career. Stay curious, work hard, and demonstrate your value—you never know where the journey may take you." 

Her success didn’t stop there. Lexi continued advancing through additional apprenticeship programs, moving up to Coder II where she gained expertise in emergency room coding, and is now training for Coder III: "I really appreciate the cohort-style training and on-the-job learning these opportunities have provided—and the financial stability they’ve given me as well.” 

Having spent nearly a decade of her professional career at CommonSpirit, Lexi has seen the company from multiple perspectives; she once worked alongside doctors, and is now coding their procedures. Her participation in the Registered Apprenticeship programs has been life-changing, providing career growth, increased earnings, and reduced stress in the process. She feels deeply committed to her work, and hopes to stay with the organization until retirement. 

Her advice for those looking to grow in their careers? Be open to entry-level opportunities. They can be steppingstones to a fulfilling career. Stay curious, work hard, and demonstrate your value—you never know where the journey may take you!"