The UC Davis Neurodiversity Internship Program creates professional pathways for neurodivergent individuals by offering hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world exposure to healthcare operations, specifically in inpatient medical coding.

Through a two-phase model, interns first receive foundational training in coding and workflow processes, followed by direct mentorship with experienced professionals. The program also incorporates support from job coaches and applies universal design principles to ensure every intern can thrive.

Sean Mini, our inaugural intern, is preparing to test for his introductory coding credential.

Interns gain:

• Practical experience in a structured, inclusive environment
• Improved accuracy, communication, and confidence
• Personalized support through mentorship and performance tracking

To be eligible for the internship, applicants must:

• Have a documented diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder from a licensed physician 
  
  
• Be registered with a California Regional Center or a similar supportive agency in their state that provides access to Paid Internship Program (PIP) funding or comparable vocational support services 
  
  

Exciting News

We are proud to announce a new partnership with AHIMA to support the continued growth and national expansion of the UC Davis Neurodiversity Internship Program.

 Through this collaboration, we are working together to:

• Expand access to high-quality coding education and certification pathways
• Support interns in preparing for the CCS credential
• Develop a scalable model for healthcare organizations to implement neurodiversity-focused internship programs

This partnership represents a significant step forward in creating inclusive, sustainable workforce pathways in health information management.

Contact us to learn more or replicate this model in your organization.

Explore Opportunities to Participate

1. Intern Interest Form  – Form Link
2. Mentor Interest Form  – Form Link
3. Partnership Interest Form  – Form Link
   
   

Celebrating Our Success

Health Leaders
How UC Davis Health is Bolstering Neurodivergent Talent with Pilot Program - Link

Our Impact:
New internship helps neurodivergent individuals work toward jobs in medical coding - Link

ICD10monitor:
Developing the Next Generation of CDI Professionals – Link

Podcast Interview:
Different Minds, Extraordinary Strengths: The UC Davis Neurodiversity Internship Program
Podcast Link: Different Minds, Extraordinary…–Off the Record with Brian Murphy – Apple Podcasts

Upcoming Events

UC Davis Neurodiversity Internship Program – Next Internship Cycle Begins
Start Date: June 1, 2026

We are excited to welcome our next group of participants to the UC Davis Neurodiversity Internship Program. This program is designed to provide structured training, hands-on coding experience, and dedicated mentorship for neurodivergent individuals pursuing careers in healthcare.

 Program Highlights:

• Structured coding education and training modules
• Hands-on experience with real-world coding workflows
• One-on-one mentorship with experienced professionals
• Supportive and inclusive learning environment

 We look forward to continuing to expand opportunities and support the development of future healthcare coding professionals.

 Meet the Team

	Tami McMasters Gomez - Founder and Visionary
	Kimberley Hubbard - Program Manager
	Dannette Regina Hollinger - Auditor