Reflexive and prospective in nature, the creators of the COMFORT model describe experiences of moving this research outside of the academy. The COMFORT model represents the seven basic principles of healthcare provider communication: C - Connect, O - Options, M - Making Meaning, F - Family Caregivers, O - Openings, R - Relating, T - Team. The COMFORT initiative began as a call for change in healthcare communication education. Originally published as a final chapter in a volume on family and palliative care communication, it was the start of an extensive translational program of trainings and tools addressing healthcare provider communication.