10 Best Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 17 tools reviewed.
In this industry, healthcare communication is vital. You and your team face daily challenges in coordinating care, managing patient information, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Clinical communication and collaboration software can help ease these burdens by connecting your team and improving patient outcomes.
I've spent years reviewing and testing medical software, and I'm here to share my insights with you. I understand the pressures you face, and I aim to provide unbiased, well-researched reviews of the top solutions available.
In this article, you'll discover the best clinical communication tools on the market. I'll highlight their key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision for your practice.
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Best Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top clinical communication and collaboration software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for large healthcare systems | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 2 | Best for healthcare compliance | Free demo available | From $40/user/month. | Website | |
| 3 | Best for hospital communication | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for HIPAA-compliant messaging | Free trial available | From $49/user/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for secure messaging | Free demo available | From $10/user/month, (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for telehealth integration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for critical alerts | 7-day free trial + free demo available | $13.99/user/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for mental health clinics | Free demo available | From $20/user/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for mobile healthcare teams | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for real-time data access | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
Best Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best clinical communication and collaboration software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews look at each tool’s key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases to help you find the best one for you.
Oracle Health’s Clinical Suite integrates with EHR and mobile tools to connect teams, streamline alerts, and optimize workflows. It helps large health systems improve coordination and enhance operational efficiency on a system-wide scale.
Why I picked Oracle Health: The platform is specifically designed for large healthcare systems, offering features that support extensive coordination needs. Its secure messaging ensures that patient data is protected while being easily accessible to authorized users. Workflow optimization tools help your team efficiently manage tasks across departments, and patient data management keeps all critical information organized and available when needed.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include workflow optimization tools that help your team manage tasks efficiently. Patient data management ensures that all critical information is organized and accessible. The platform's secure messaging keeps sensitive patient data protected and available to authorized users.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Clears alerts automatically
- Custom alarm tones
- Smart team directory
Cons:
- Escalation errors possible
- Alarm tone setup tricky
- Complex system setup
Symplr provides secure, role-based messaging that connects with EHRs to add patient details directly into conversations. It delivers real-time communication, including secure messaging and critical alerts, while enabling control features like off-duty settings and read-receipt tracking.
Why I picked Symplr: The platform emphasizes healthcare compliance, offering features that ensure your team adheres to industry standards. Its secure messaging keeps patient data protected, while task management tools help organize workflows. Compliance tracking ensures that your team meets the healthcare industry’s regulatory requirements and maintains high standards of care.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include compliance tracking that ensures adherence to industry standards. Task management tools help you organize and prioritize workflows efficiently. Secure messaging provides a reliable way to communicate sensitive patient information.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Critical alert escalation
- On-call scheduling sync
- Role‑based alert routing
Cons:
- Persistent off-duty messages
- No bulk delete
- Limited search capability
Ascom’s communication software, part of the Ascom Healthcare Platform, offers modular solutions that connect with hospital devices and systems to streamline workflows and improve patient care. It enables real-time sharing of alerts, messages, vital signs, photos, and more to caregivers wherever they are.
Why I picked Ascom: The platform focuses on hospital communication, integrating nurse call systems and medical device connectivity to ensure smooth operations. The Myco 3 and Myco 4 smartphones support communication in demanding healthcare environments, providing reliability and durability. It speeds response, aids decisions, cuts alert fatigue, and improves coordination.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include nurse call systems that enhance patient-nurse communication. Clinical alarm management helps reduce alarm fatigue for your team. Care coordination tools ensure efficient workflow across departments.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time waveform sharing
- Rules-based decision prompts
- Rapid nurse-call mobilization
Cons:
- Device compatibility gaps
- Needs alert customization
- Complex integration
Spruce Health combines phone, text, fax, secure messaging, video visits, and team collaboration in a single, intuitive interface. It’s purpose-built for HIPAA compliance, featuring a built-in BAA and HITRUST-level security to help maintain strong privacy and regulatory safeguards.
Why I picked Spruce Health: It provides secure messaging and video visits, essential for maintaining patient confidentiality. The platform includes features like e-fax and team collaboration tools, supporting its focus on HIPAA compliance. Phone trees and call routing further enhance communication efficiency, making it ideal for practices prioritizing secure communication.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include secure messaging, video visits, and e-fax that enhance patient-provider interactions. The platform supports team collaboration with tools designed for various healthcare specialties. Phone trees and call routing streamline communication for healthcare professionals.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Slack, Zoom, Doxy.me, SimplePractice, Kareo, Practice Fusion, and Athenahealth.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective call routing
- Supports multiple specialties
- Easy to use on mobile
Cons:
- No hard-copy fax receipt
- App-only HIPAA texting
- Slow porting process
TigerConnect is a HIPAA-compliant platform for encrypted messaging, file sharing, and on-call scheduling. Its simple SMS-like design and audit trail make secure collaboration fast and reliable.
Why I picked TigerConnect: The platform excels in secure messaging, ensuring that your team's communications remain private and compliant with industry standards. Real-time messaging allows for quick and effective communication among team members. Task management features help you organize and prioritize responsibilities, while care coordination tools enhance patient care by improving information flow.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time messaging that ensures quick communication. Task management tools help your team organize and prioritize tasks effectively. Care coordination tools improve the flow of patient information, enhancing overall care.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- SMS-style simplicity
- Real-time EHR context
- Role-based messaging
Cons:
- Integration complexity
- No copy/paste support
- Auto-logout frustrations
QliqSOFT allows providers to manage messaging, appointments, and video visits from a single interface that integrates with EHRs. It deploys telehealth without requiring patients to download apps, simplifying care access and enhancing clinical workflows.
Why I picked QliqSOFT: The platform excels in telehealth integration, providing video conferencing and virtual visits that facilitate remote patient care. Secure messaging ensures patient data remains confidential. Automated appointment reminders help reduce no-shows, while customizable chatbots enhance patient interaction and engagement.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include secure messaging that keeps patient information private. Automated appointment reminders help your team manage schedules efficiently. Customizable chatbots provide personalized patient interactions, improving overall engagement.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- GPS visit pathing
- App-less patient access
- Peer-to-peer encryption
Cons:
- GPS may raise privacy concerns
- Depends on reliable links
- Setup too technical
OnPage is a HIPAA-compliant clinical communications system designed to replace outdated pagers by delivering persistent, high-priority alerts that override silent modes and repeat until acknowledged. It integrates with EHRs and nurse call systems and supports on-call scheduling to ensure urgent patient updates reach the right clinician.
Why I picked OnPage: The platform excels at delivering critical alerts, providing reliable messaging services that ensure your team can respond quickly to emergencies. Its priority messaging feature guarantees that urgent alerts are not overlooked. The secure messaging ensures that sensitive information remains protected, and the alert escalation feature helps manage priority tasks efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include priority messaging that ensures urgent alerts get immediate attention. Secure messaging keeps your communications protected and confidential. The alert escalation feature helps you manage and prioritize tasks effectively.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- HIPAA-secure messaging
- Persistent alert until read
- Alerts override silent mode
Cons:
- Occasional escalation failures
- Limited UI customization
- Notification delivery delays
ClinicTracker integrates secure messaging directly within patient records, enabling fast, compliant communication among care teams, patients, and external providers. It offers telehealth, reminders, and a customizable interface, ideal for mental health clinics needing privacy, flexibility, and smooth coordination.
Why I picked ClinicTracker: The platform is specifically designed for mental health clinics, offering features that address the unique needs of this field. Its scheduling tools help manage patient appointments efficiently, while clinical documentation ensures comprehensive record-keeping. The billing features streamline financial tasks, making it easier for your team to handle administrative duties.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable reporting tools that let you generate detailed insights. Electronic prescribing ensures prescriptions are managed safely and effectively. Automated reminders help reduce no-shows and keep your clinic running smoothly.
Integrations include DrFirst, Wiley PracticePlanners, QuickBooks, Twilio, Zoom, Microsoft Outlook, Google Calendar, Constant Contact, Mailchimp, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time internal chat
- Built-in secure messaging
- Highly customizable forms
Cons:
- Poor documentation quality
- Occasional performance lag
- Custom setup required
Skyscape Buzz is a communication platform for healthcare professionals, offering secure messaging and collaboration on mobile devices. It is primarily used by mobile healthcare teams who need reliable communication tools while on the go.
Why I picked Skyscape Buzz: The platform is tailored for mobile healthcare teams, providing secure messaging and file sharing to keep your team connected. It supports multimedia messages, ensuring you can share images and videos securely. The ability to create group chats enhances team collaboration, and the platform's mobile-first design ensures ease of use in various settings.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include secure messaging that keeps your communications protected. Multimedia messaging lets you share images and videos with your team. Group chat functionality enhances collaboration and keeps everyone in the loop.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- AI‑powered clinical library
- HIPAA-compliant multitool
- Cross-channel messaging tool
Cons:
- Complicated fax system
- Features can be overwhelming
- Too many channels clutter
Sickbay is an FDA-cleared platform that consolidates time-synchronized streaming data. The platform speeds up situational awareness with near-real-time and historical monitoring and supports clinical decision-making across units.
Why I picked Sickbay: The platform excels in providing real-time data access, allowing your team to make informed decisions quickly. Continuous patient monitoring ensures critical data is always available. Customizable dashboards let you tailor the information to your needs, and secure data sharing enhances collaboration with your team.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include continuous patient monitoring that provides up-to-date information for your team. Customizable dashboards let you view data in a way that suits your specific needs. Secure data sharing ensures that sensitive information remains protected during collaboration.
Integrations include Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, Meditech, Athenahealth, Greenway Health, McKesson, NextGen Healthcare, DrChrono, and Kareo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhances team collaboration
- Continuous patient monitoring
- Real-time data access
Cons:
- Complex analytics customization
- Complex deployment planning
- High infrastructure demand
Other Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
Here are some additional clinical communication and collaboration software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- PerfectServe
For automated call routing
- C8 Health
For secure file sharing
- Hillrom Voalte
For mobile workforce communication
- Mobile Heartbeat
For team collaboration tools
- Vocera
For voice-driven communication
- Backline
For secure telehealth messaging
- Spok Care Connect
For hospital-wide alerts
Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best clinical communication and collaboration software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like ensuring data security and improving team coordination. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Secure messaging
- Voice and video communication
- Task management
- Patient data sharing
- Real-time alerts
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Customizable dashboards
- AI-driven analytics
- Automated workflows
- Multi-language support
- Offline access capabilities
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive design for mobile use
- Customizable user settings
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Comprehensive user manuals
- Supportive chatbots for guidance
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple contact channels
- Knowledgeable support staff
- Fast response times
- Comprehensive FAQs
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Range of features offered
- Flexible pricing plans
- Free trial availability
- Discounts for long-term contracts
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive user feedback
- Consistent performance reports
- Satisfaction with customer support
- Ease of implementation
- Overall reliability and uptime
How to Choose Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the software grow with your practice? Consider future expansion plans and whether the tool can handle increased users or data without performance issues. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your existing systems? Check for compatibility with EHRs, billing, and other critical tools to avoid workflow disruptions. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? Look for options to adjust settings, layouts, and workflows to fit your practice's specific processes and preferences. |
| Ease of use | Is it user-friendly for your team? Choose a tool that minimizes training time and has an intuitive interface to keep operations smooth and efficient. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you start using it? Evaluate the setup process, required resources, and available support to ensure a smooth transition without lengthy downtimes. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare pricing models, consider total cost of ownership, and watch for hidden fees in contracts. |
| Security safeguards | Are patient data and communications protected? Ensure compliance with HIPAA and other standards, and look for encryption and access control features. |
| Compliance requirements | Does it meet regulatory needs? Verify adherence to healthcare regulations specific to your region and specialty to avoid compliance issues. |
What Is Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software?
Clinical communication and collaboration software is a tool used to improve communication and coordination among healthcare providers. Doctors, nurses, and administrative staff typically use these tools to enhance patient care and operational efficiency.
Secure messaging, task management, and patient data sharing help with efficient communication and workflow. These tools ultimately enhance patient outcomes and reduce administrative burdens.
Features of Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
When selecting clinical communication and collaboration software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Secure messaging: Enables private communication among healthcare staff, ensuring patient data is protected.
- Task management: Helps organize and prioritize responsibilities, improving workflow efficiency.
- Patient data sharing: Allows easy access and sharing of patient information among authorized team members.
- Real-time alerts: Sends immediate notifications to keep staff informed of critical updates and emergencies.
- Customizable dashboards: Lets users tailor their interface to display the most relevant information for their role.
- Integration capabilities: Ensures compatibility with existing systems like EHRs and billing software for seamless operations.
- Compliance tracking: Monitors adherence to healthcare regulations, reducing the risk of compliance issues.
- Voice and video communication: Facilitates remote consultations and team meetings, enhancing collaboration.
- Automated workflows: Streamlines routine tasks to save time and reduce administrative burdens.
- Multimedia messaging: Supports the sharing of images and videos to enhance communication and decision-making.
Benefits of Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
Implementing clinical communication and collaboration software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Enhanced communication: Secure messaging and real-time alerts ensure your team stays connected and informed.
- Improved patient care: Patient data sharing and voice communication allow for better coordination and decision-making.
- Increased efficiency: Automated workflows and task management help your team save time and focus on patient care.
- Regulatory compliance: Compliance tracking ensures your practice meets industry standards and reduces legal risks.
- Better collaboration: Integration capabilities and customizable dashboards support teamwork across departments.
- Reduced errors: Real-time alerts and multimedia messaging help prevent miscommunication and improve accuracy.
- Cost savings: Efficient workflows and reduced administrative tasks can lower operational costs over time.
Costs and Pricing of Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
Selecting a clinical communication and collaboration platform requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in clinical communication and collaboration software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic messaging, limited user support, and essential integration. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Secure messaging, task management, and basic data sharing. |
| Business Plan | $30-$75/user/month | Advanced analytics, custom dashboards, and enhanced security features. |
| Enterprise Plan | $100-$200/user/month | Comprehensive compliance tracking, full integration capabilities, and dedicated customer support. |
Clinical Communication and Collaboration Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about clinical communication and collaboration software:
How does clinical communication software integrate with existing systems?
Integration with existing systems is crucial for seamless operations. You should check if the software supports integration with your current EHR, billing, and scheduling systems. This ensures data flows smoothly between platforms, reducing manual data entry and potential errors.
How do healthcare organizations use communication platforms?
Healthcare organizations use clinical tools to reduce silos and connect the ecosystem, improving data sharing and coordination.
How can these tools improve patient care?
These tools enhance patient care by facilitating faster communication and information sharing among healthcare providers. Features like secure messaging and real-time alerts help your team make informed decisions quickly, improving response times and patient outcomes.
How does software improve patient care?
Tools support care delivery, boost patient engagement, and ensure patient safety, while reducing burnout and improving throughput.
How do EHRs connect to communication platforms?
Integration with electronic health records, EMRs, and clinical systems ensures health information flows directly into clinical communication.
Why are automation and security important?
Automate features streamline tasks like alerts, while strong cybersecurity protects communication and patient data.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching clinical communication and collaboration software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
