The U.S. healthcare system is often complex and difficult to navigate, leaving many patients feeling lost, frustrated, and overwhelmed. This can result in miscommunication, confusion, and even harmful medical errors. Improving communication between healthcare providers and patients has the potential to reduce these barriers and improve patient outcomes. Karen Komondor, the founder and president of Health Literacy 360, LLC, has dedicated her career to addressing these challenges and empowering both healthcare professionals and patients through better communication.
With nearly two decades of experience in health literacy and patient advocacy, Komondor has worked to revolutionize the way healthcare is delivered and understood. Health Literacy 360, founded by Komondor, provides tailored solutions to healthcare organizations, clinicians, and consumers. Their services include keynotes, training programs, strategic consulting, and thought leadership, all focused on bridging the communication gap in healthcare. The company emphasizes clarity, compassion, and understanding, ensuring that healthcare teams are equipped to communicate effectively with patients, regardless of their health literacy levels.
As a registered nurse with extensive clinical experience, Komondor has witnessed firsthand the impact that poor communication can have on patients. Misunderstandings related to diagnoses, treatment options, or healthcare plans can lead to frustration, confusion, and even medical errors. Recognizing the critical need for improved health literacy in healthcare, Komondor has worked to empower both patients and healthcare providers with the skills to communicate more effectively.
Research has shown that clear, compassionate communication not only improves patient safety but also leads to better health outcomes. Patients who understand their healthcare options and feel confident in their decisions are more likely to adhere to treatment plans and manage their care effectively. This, in turn, helps to reduce unnecessary treatments and hospitalizations, ultimately reducing healthcare costs.
“The goal is not just about delivering information, but ensuring patients fully understand their healthcare options and feel confident in their decisions,” Komondor explains. “When healthcare teams communicate well, patients are safer, healthier, and more satisfied with their care.”
Health Literacy 360’s work extends far beyond training healthcare professionals. By collaborating with organizations to ensure that all individuals—regardless of their background or education level—have access to easy-to-understand health information, Komondor and her team are working to make healthcare more accessible and less intimidating. They also provide strategic guidance on improving patient safety and care quality, ensuring that healthcare systems remain responsive to the needs of all patients.
In addition to her work with Health Literacy 360, Komondor is a recognized leader in the health literacy movement. She co-founded Ohio Health Literacy Partners and served as its past president, creating a statewide coalition focused on improving health literacy. Komondor also chairs the National Council to Improve Patient Safety Through Health Literacy and has recently been elected president of the U.S. Health Literacy Association. Her leadership has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.
Health literacy plays a critical role in the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare organizations. When patients understand their health information, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their care, which improves patient outcomes. This approach not only benefits patients but also enhances the efficiency of healthcare systems.
Komondor’s commitment to improving healthcare communication stems from personal experience. For over 2 decades she struggled alongside three siblings who were all diagnosed with a rare, debilitating disease when they reached their 30s. Komondor saw the emotional and physical toll of navigating the healthcare system. This experience as a caregiver and patient advocate has shaped her approach to health literacy and continues to drive the mission of Health Literacy 360.
Through keynote presentations, training sessions, and strategic consultations, Komondor has worked with healthcare professionals for over a decade, helping them gain a deeper understanding of health literacy and its impact on patient care. Her efforts have inspired others in the healthcare industry to improve their communication strategies and adopt a more patient-centered approach.
Karen Komondor’s leadership in advancing health literacy was recently recognized when she was included in the Who’s Who 2024, underscoring her continued dedication to transforming healthcare communication.
Health Literacy 360’s approach is distinguished by its comprehensive focus on educating healthcare professionals, empowering patients, and transforming healthcare organizations. By helping patients understand their health and healthcare options, and by improving communication between healthcare providers and patients, Health Literacy 360 is dedicated to improving clarity, compassion, and overall outcomes in healthcare.
To learn more about Karen Komondor and Health Literacy 360, visit Health Literacy 360 or connect with Karen on LinkedIn.
