Top EMR Systems List

Buyers Guide

Last updated: December 05, 2023

The healthcare landscape is undergoing a major shift due to the widespread adoption of electronic medical record (EMR) software. An impressive 96% of hospitals in the United States had already embraced EMR systems by 2021, highlighting the crucial role they play in streamlining operations, improving patient care, and achieving better outcomes.

Moreover, recent studies show that organizations utilizing certified EMR systems experience up to 50% reduction in medical errors and significant improvements in workflow efficiency.

However, the vast array of EMR options available, each designed to meet the specific needs of different facilities, can make the selection process overwhelming. That’s why we have crafted this buyer’s guide to act as a starting point for your research. It will provide an in-depth analysis of key features, benefits, pricing considerations, and some of the leading vendors in the market to help you make an informed decision.

Here's what you will find inside:

What Is EMR Software?

An electronic medical record software is the digital version of a patient's medical history and health information. The application allows healthcare providers to create, store, and access patient records electronically. It houses vital information about a patient, including:

• Medical history
• Diagnoses
• Medications
• Demographics
• Lab results
• Treatment plans
• Allergies
• Prescriptions

This technology is also designed to streamline day-to-day administrative tasks, such as insurance claims processing, medical billing, patient scheduling, adding new patients, and information sharing. Healthcare professionals can easily retrieve patient information, make informed clinical decisions, and collaborate with other providers to improve patient care.

Additionally, EMRs comply with reimbursement and regulatory requirements, such as ICD-10, HIPAA, and Meaningful Use standards, ensuring the privacy, security, and interoperability of patient data. They have become a mainstay in the healthcare industry and have eliminated the need to keep paper-based records.

EMR Vs. EHR: What Is the Difference?

EMRs and electronic health records (EHRs) are two terms often used interchangeably, but they have some differences in their scope and functionality.

While both systems store patient data electronically, EMRs are typically used within a specific medical office or practice. They serve as a digital version of the patient's paper chart but are not designed for seamless data exchange or interoperability across different healthcare facilities and providers.

EHR software, on the other hand, support interoperability and include comprehensive patient records, which can be shared across multiple healthcare organizations and providers, enabling a seamless exchange of patient data.

Many software providers are now combining EMR and EHR solutions to achieve optimal interoperability. It’s best to prioritize your practice’s unique requirements rather than focusing on the terminology.

Stay tuned for our Features section below, where we will cover the specific offerings and functionalities of EMR systems to provide you with a better understanding of how these tools work.

Understanding Different Deployment Methods

Electronic medical record solutions have two primary deployment modes: cloud and on-premise. In this section, we will give you an overview of both.

Cloud-Based

Cloud-based systems are suitable for practices of all types and sizes. They store large amounts of data on the vendor’s servers, making it easy to access patient records and system functionalities from anywhere with an internet connection. Overall, these solutions are easy to deploy and more affordable than traditional on-premise systems.

Some healthcare facilities are concerned about data privacy when it comes to the cloud-based deployment method. Top EMR software companies are now employing robust security measures through premium data centers to address these concerns.

On-Premise

On-premise platforms are well suited for large practices. They include higher upfront and maintenance costs, typically associated with installing servers and infrastructure. This deployment option offers a sense of security as practices have direct control over their servers, keeping sensitive patient information within their own facility.

However, it's important to consider the limitations of on-premise systems, particularly in terms of remote accessibility. Managing data from multiple locations or enabling remote data management becomes more challenging with this approach.

Benefits Of Electronic Medical Record Software

EMR software solutions provide several key benefits that contribute to improved patient care, increased efficiency, and better outcomes for both healthcare organizations and their patients. In this section, we will explore these benefits to understand how they can positively impact your practice's success.

1. Improved Efficiency

According to the Medscape Physician Compensation Report for 2023 (https://www.medscape.com/), physicians spend an average of 15.5 hours per week on paperwork and administration. EMR software significantly reduce this administrative burden by automating day-to-day tasks such as appointment scheduling, billing, and documentation. They enable healthcare providers to spend less time on paperwork and more time delivering quality care to their patients.

2. Enhanced Patient Care

EMR software centralize patient records so they’re easily accessible to authorized medical professionals. This improves care coordination, reduces medical errors, and enables more informed treatment decisions. Real-time access to patient information also enables faster diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. Better Patient Engagement

Patients can access telemedicine solutions, patient portals, and other EMR tools to communicate with their providers via messaging or face-to-face conference calls. The software enables them to conveniently schedule appointments, access and review lab results, and make online payments. This creates stronger patient–physician relationships and empowers patients to participate actively in their care process.

4. Cost Savings

Implementing an EMR system can result in cost reduction and maximize revenue for your practice. It helps you qualify for government incentives, reduces drug spending and staffing expenses, increases patient traffic, and streamlines revenue cycle management. The software's reporting tools also enhance reimbursement and decrease claim rejection rates through efficient claim scrubbing.

5. Enhanced Data Security

These technology-driven tools improve data security by replacing manual patient data documentation. They mitigate risks like damage, misplacement, theft, and tampering. With permission-based access authorization and configurable backups, EMRs ensure data confidentiality and resilience against unforeseen events.

6. Better Care Coordination

Electronic charts enable seamless sharing of patient information among healthcare providers. EMR software offer intuitive interfaces and integrations for efficient communication, collaboration, and secure exchange of medical data between different providers and departments within a healthcare facility. This leads to better coordination of care and improved patient outcomes.

Basic Features Needed In EMR Software

When compiling the top EMR software list, it is important to assess the range of functionalities offered by each system.

The following table presents a set of core features healthcare providers should include in their checklist:

What Type Of EMR Buyer Are You? 

When it comes to choosing EMR software, different types of buyers have varying priorities and considerations based on their specific requirements. Here are some common types of buyers and the key factors they should consider during the selection process: 

Small Practices 

Small practices typically consist of 1–5 physicians. These buyers often look for EMR software solutions to transition from paper-based systems and meet regulatory requirements or replace their existing EHR systems. 

Additionally, small practices typically operate with limited staff and have minimal IT support available. Hence, they require an EMR software that is user-friendly, intuitive, and offers comprehensive support to streamline their workflow and reduce the need for extensive IT resources. 

Software providers like AdvancedMD EMR can be a good fit for these healthcare settings as they offer flexible pricing options tailored to these practices. 

Midsize Practices 

Midsize practices generally consist of 6–20 physicians. These practices are typically more established and have a larger patient base compared to small practices. They require scalable software solutions that can effectively operate across multiple locations, meeting their need for flexibility and growth. 

Furthermore, midsize practices may require additional support and training due to their larger staff size. EMR software providers like eClinicalWorks can be a reliable choice for these practices as they offer a comprehensive suite of features designed specifically to assist midsize practices in optimizing their workflow. 

Large Practices 

Large practices usually have 50+ physicians and considerable support staff. They require robust EMR software to handle complex operations and high patient volumes. These practices look for EMR software providers that can offer advanced features to support their unique requirements. 

For such big healthcare organizations, solutions like EpicCare would be the appropriate choice.  

Specialty Practices 

Specialty practices have unique requirements that differ from primary care practices. These practices need specialty-specific features, such as templates, treatment plans, devices, and lab integrations tailored to their field.  

It's important to consider that EMR costs can vary between specialties. For example, electronic health record solutions for fields like dermatology, oncology, neurology, and cardiology are typically priced higher compared to other specialties. 

How To Decide Which EMR Software Is Best For Your Practice? 

We have compiled a list of questions that will help you with your decision-making process.  

Here’s what you need to do: 

• Put a tick against these basic EMR software design benchmarks 
• Narrow down your options to top five companies; test them individually or collectively 

We have also compiled a list of top-rated EMR software a few sections down to help you with your analysis. 

See the checklist below and remember that the tool with the most checks wins (our recommendation for you is to go ahead with the steps listed below the following list). 

Electronic Medical Records Software Evaluation List    

• Does the software work with your practice size/needs?  
• What is its required level of tech expertise (only built for technical professionals)?  
• Is it easy to integrate/connect with other tools you have in your tech stack?  
• Does it fit your budget (expensive or cost-effective)?  
• How will you deploy your software (cloud-based or on-premise)?  
• Does it offer robust data security capabilities to protect sensitive patient information and ensure compliance with privacy regulations? 
• How customizable is the software?  
• What level of support and training does the software provider offer? 
• Does the software offer specialty-specific features and templates tailored to your practice's field?

Now, you need to shortlist one EMR system. Visit its product profile page – use our search bar above – to watch demo or request pricing (accurate, updated, custom plan figures tailored to your medical practice) so you can get subscribed quickly. 

EMR Software Cost And Pricing Considerations 

EMR software products typically operate on a per-provider, per-month pricing structure. This pricing model allows users to pay based on the number of healthcare providers in their practice. However, some vendors offer alternative pricing structures, such as a one-time licensing fee with additional monthly costs for maintenance and support. 

It's important to explore different pricing options and choose the one that aligns best with your practice's needs and budget. 

The pricing for basic EMR solutions typically falls in this range:  

(*Note: The specific price range mentioned is subject to change and may vary based on the software provider and user requirements.) 

Additional Costs To Consider 

Consider the following factors when evaluating the cost and pricing of electronic medical records. 

Hidden Costs: 

• Installation 
• Implementation 
• Customization 
• Storage 
• Integration 
• Deployment fees 

Deployment Method: 

• Cloud-based software generally have lower initial costs but may include recurring monthly fees as they follow a subscription-based model 
• On-premise software typically involve higher upfront costs due to a permanent license but have lower recurring expenses 

It is important to assess the pros and cons of each deployment option to determine the best fit for your practice’s requirements and budget. 

For more pricing information, call us at (315) 215-3447 to get a custom, updated pricing guide tailored to your medical practice. 

Top EMR Software Companies 

Finding the right electronic medical record software can be a daunting task, with countless options to choose from. 

That's why we have done the work for you and curated a list of the top 5 EMR software solutions to simplify your decision-making process. 

1. AdvancedMD

AdvancedMD EMR is a leading cloud-based medical software solution designed to help healthcare practices automate their day-to-day workflows. The all-in-one platform offers advanced features and functionalities to enhance clinical workflows, improve patient engagement, and ensure accurate documentation. Its intuitive interface and customizable templates enable healthcare providers to efficiently navigate and document patient encounters, improving overall productivity.  

Overall, AdvancedMD is a trusted solution that offers custom-tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of healthcare practices of all types and specialties. 

Pricing 

• Build A Bundle: Custom plans 
• Standard Pricing Bundles: Custom Pricing (contact us at (315) 215-3447 to confirm pricing)

Key Features 

• Appointment Scheduling: Manage and schedule patient appointments to optimize clinic workflow and ensure timely patient care 
• Reporting And Analytics: Access comprehensive reporting and analytics tools to gain valuable insights into patient data and enhance decision-making 
• Clinical Decision Support: Use clinical decision support features to improve diagnosis accuracy and treatment planning  
• Customizable Templates: Customize charting templates to streamline documentation and improve overall productivity 
• Patient Portal: Enhance patient engagement by providing them with a secure portal to access their medical records, request appointments, and communicate with healthcare providers 

Pros And Cons

Dashboard View

2. athenahealth

athenahealth is a fully integrated electronic medical record and practice management solution designed to help medical practices deliver high-quality care. It offers a unified suite of solutions to automate day-to-day administrative tasks, enhance patient engagement, and reduce documentation time. Providers can use the vendor's technology solutions to improve clinical experiences, provide virtual care, and maximize revenue collection. 

Moreover, athenahealth addresses potential gaps in care and enhances value-based care outcomes by providing actionable insights integrated directly into the clinical workflow. 

Pricing 

• Custom Pricing (contact us to confirm pricing) 

Key Features 

• Clinical Documentation: Streamline documentation with intuitive tools and real-time collaboration 
• Patient Engagement: Encourage active patient participation through secure portals and online communication 
• Telehealth: Enable remote consultations and virtual visits with integrated telehealth capabilities 
• Revenue Cycle Management: Optimize billing processes and maximize revenue with automated solutions 
• Voice Dictation: Enhance documentation speed and accuracy through voice dictation functionality 

Pros And Cons

Dashboard View

3. Cerner

Cerner offers a comprehensive suite of solutions and services designed to support physician practices of all sizes and 30+ specialties. The platform enables providers to streamline administrative tasks, enhance patient engagement, and deliver better healthcare. Its new AI-enabled workflow, Chart Assist tool, is designed to improve user experience, reduce clinician burnout, and boost overall productivity. 

Overall, Cerner is a trusted solution that drives innovation, interoperability, and improved patient care across the healthcare continuum. 

Pricing 

• Custom Pricing (contact us to confirm pricing) 

Key Features 

• Population Health Management: Manage and improve the health outcomes of a defined population by leveraging data analytics and care coordination tools 
• Reporting and Analytics: Gain valuable insights and make data-driven decisions with robust reporting and analytics capabilities 
• Revenue Cycle Management: Optimize revenue collection and financial operations with streamlined billing processes, accurate coding, and comprehensive revenue cycle management tools 
• Patient Scheduling: Simplify appointment scheduling and improve patient access to care through user-friendly scheduling tools, reducing wait times and enhancing patient satisfaction 

Pros And Cons 

Dashboard View

4. eClinicalWorks

eClinicalWorks is an integrated cloud-based solution that combines electronic health record (EHR) and practice management features in a centralized interface. The technology-driven solution streamlines day-to-day processes, such as appointment scheduling, clinical documentation, and medical billing. 

With its HIPAA-compliant platform, eClinicalWorks empowers physicians to embrace value-based care models and enhance the overall healthcare experience for their patients. 

Pricing 

• EHR Only: $449/month/provider 
• EHR With Practice Management: $599/month/provider 
• RCM As A Service: 2.9% of practice collections

Key Features 

• Revenue Cycle Management: Streamline financial processes and optimize revenue generation with robust RCM capabilities 
• Integrated Telehealth: Conduct virtual patient consultations and provide remote care within the software 
• Virtual Assistant: Use Eva, a virtual assistant, that assists with administrative tasks such as appointment scheduling and patient communication 
• AI Speech-To-Text Technology: Dictate clinical notes to enhance documentation and reduce manual data entry 

Pros And Cons 

Dashboard View

5. EpicCare

EpicCare is a comprehensive EMR software designed for large hospitals and health systems. The platform offers a range of functionalities to support clinical workflows, such as patient charting, medication management, order entry, and scheduling. It is designed to be interoperable and supports seamless exchange of patient data across different medical practices. 

Overall, EpicCare electronic health record system provides end-to-end medical software solutions to enhance efficiency, patient safety, and overall care coordination within healthcare settings. 

Pricing 

• Custom Pricing (contact us to confirm pricing) 

Key Features 

• Population Health Management: Identify and address health trends, risks, and gaps in care for specific patient populations 
• Analytics and Insights: Gain actionable insights from comprehensive data analytics to drive informed decision-making and improve patient outcomes 
• Patient Portal: Enable patients to access their health records, schedule appointments, communicate with providers, and engage in self-care management 
• Revenue Cycle Management: Streamline financial processes, including billing, coding, and claims management, to optimize revenue generation and financial performance 

Pros And Cons 

Dashboard View

Frequently Asked Questions  

What is the difference between EHR and EMR in healthcare? 

The main difference between electronic health records (EHRs) and electronic medical records (EMR) is that EHRs are designed to be comprehensive and accessible across different healthcare organizations, while EMRs focus on patient information within a single healthcare facility. 

How does EMR software improve patient care? 

EMR software improves patient care by streamlining administrative tasks, reducing paperwork, facilitating accurate documentation, and enabling quick access to patient information. This allows healthcare providers to make informed decisions, enhance communication, and provide more personalized and efficient care to patients. 

How is EMR used in healthcare? 

EMR is used in healthcare to digitize and manage patient medical records, including their medical history, diagnoses, treatments, prescriptions, and test results. It allows healthcare providers to store, access, and update patient information electronically. 

What is the best EMR system? 

Determining the best EMR system depends on specific needs and preferences. Various factors such as functionality, user interface, integration capabilities, and pricing should be considered. It is recommended to research and evaluate different EMR systems to find the one that aligns best with individual requirements and workflow. 

What are the different types of EMRs? 

There are various types of EMR systems available, including cloud-based EMRs, on-premises EMRs, specialty-specific EMRs, and certified EMRs. The choice of EMR type depends on factors such as organizational needs, budget, scalability, and desired level of customization. 

Let Us Help You Get Started!  

Choosing the right EMR software for your medical practice is a major decision that can greatly impact efficiency, patient care, and overall workflow. Healthcare practices looking for a reliable EMR solution should consider factors such as practice size, budget, data security, third-party integrations and other relevant criteria to make an informed decision. 

We understand that finding the right EMR system can be a challenging process, and that's why we are here to help. Our team of experts is committed to providing you with tailored guidance and support to help you make an informed decision.  

Schedule a free consultation with us at (315) 215-3447 to learn more about electronic medical record software and get personalized recommendations based on your unique practice requirements.