Xtern employers
Get extra help, reduce hiring risks, and discover future talent — at no cost.The AAPC Xtern Program connects you with newly certified medical coders who are ready to gain real-world experience. As an Xternship site, you can host AAPC-certified externs to lighten your team’s workload and see potential candidates in action — before making a hiring decision.
Fill the gaps
Strengthen your workforce while providing career opportunities.
AAPC Xterns bring coding and administrative support to your team while giving you the chance to assess future talent in a low-risk environment.
How the Xternship Program benefits your organization
Access to certified and trained talent - All Xterns hold an AAPC credential and have completed formal medical coding training. By offloading tasks to new coders, you can fill gaps and ease the workload for your seasoned staff.
Reduced hiring risks - See how a candidate fits into your team before making a hiring decision.
Zero financial commitment - Hosting an Xtern is free — there’s no cost to participate. Compensation may be arranged between host facilities and Xterns, if desired.
Chance to give back to the industry - Make a lasting impact by offering the kind of opportunity someone once gave you — while getting high-quality help from newly certified professionals.
Needs and goals
You get to define the right fit.
Every Xternship is designed to support your team’s unique needs. You choose the tasks, the schedule, and the level of structure that works best for your operation.
Whether you prefer a set routine or a flexible approach, you have the freedom to shape the experience (as long as program requirements are met) in a way that benefits both your team and the Xtern.
Tasks and responsibilites
What type of work can my Xtern do?
Xterns are trained and eager to contribute. Their main focus is on coding tasks, but they can also support your team in areas like:
Medical auditing tasks
Charge entry and claim reconciliation
Patient registration and insurance verification
Pre-authorizations and prior approvals
Front desk or AR support
Program requirements
What's expected of my organization?
Xtern employers are required to:
Provide 160 hours of hands-on experience — in person or virtually
Assign a primary contact to provide guidance, sign off on timesheets, and offer feedback
Ensure that at least 60% of the Xtern’s time is spent on coding tasks related to their certification
Provide access to tools and records needed to do the work securely and effectively
Complete a short performance evaluation at the end of the Xternship
How to get started
After you submit a short interest form, you will:
Register your facility with AAPC
Add a company profile and your free Xtern job posting on the AAPC Job Board
Start evaluating qualified candidates
Review our Xtern Employer Guide for more details.