Heather Coates, BS, CCRP
Behavioral Program Specialist
HANDS in Autism Program
Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center

Heather Coates studied neurobiology and psychology at Purdue, graduating with a BS in 1999. She has worked in a variety of healthcare and research settings, allowing her to develop a variety of skills related to healthcare and research. In 2005, driven by interests in knowledge management, lifelong learning, and research, Ms. Coates began working towards her Masters in Library Science (MLS). In 2006, she joined the dual-degree program at IUPUI to work towards a Masters in Health Informatics as well as joining the HANDS in Autism Team. Her interests include developing accessible consumer health materials, adult health literacy instruction, information sharing and distribution, information visualization, and advocating for patient involvement in the care process. Ms. Coates' role in the HANDS in Autism Program is that of Research and Outreach Coordinator. She recently received clinical research certification by the Society for Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA). Current projects include developing materials and web-based tutorials to inform patients and families of Riley Hospital for Children, healthcare providers, and the greater community of Indiana.