Skip to main content

Electronic health records (EHR) software streamlines patient data management and reduces manual documentation, which frees up your team to focus on improving care coordination and patient outcomes. Managing medication inventory can be challenging, but the proper inventory tools help prevent stockouts and ensure compliance.

In this article, I compare and review the best EHR tools to support your buying decision.

Why Trust Our Software Reviews

We’ve been testing and reviewing medical practice software since 2023. As medical practice technology researchers ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.

We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different medical practice use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our software review methodology.

Best EHR Software Summary

Best EHR Software Reviews

Best for ambulatory care settings focusing on clinical care and practice management

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

NextGen is a comprehensive EHR and Practice Management software designed specifically for ambulatory care settings. It integrates clinical care and practice management, facilitating optimal patient outcomes and efficient resource utilization.

Why I Picked NextGen: I selected NextGen for this list because it seamlessly unites clinical care and practice management, a feature particularly beneficial for ambulatory care settings. What makes it distinct is its specialty-specific templates, making it versatile across various medical fields.

This blend of features justifies why I find it best for ambulatory care settings focusing on clinical care and practice management.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include fully-integrated EHR and Practice Management (PM) systems. The software comes with features such as e-prescribing, patient portal, interoperability services, and an analytics platform.

Integrations include other systems such as medical billing and patient scheduling tools, enhancing its functionality and reach.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Robust analytics platform
  • Fully integrated EHR and Practice Management system
  • Specialty-specific templates cater to various medical fields

Cons:

  • Some users report a steep learning curve
  • Setup fee not included in the initial pricing
  • Relatively high starting price

Best for end-to-end network-enabled medical services

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

Athenahealth offers a comprehensive healthcare platform called AthenaOne that provides end-to-end solutions for medical practices. Its cloud-based system encompasses patient engagement, clinical, and billing services, making it ideal for practices seeking a network-enabled service that covers all facets of healthcare administration.

Why I Picked Athenahealth: Choosing Athenahealth for this list came down to its robust, all-encompassing functionality. It's not just a software solution; it's a full-service network that brings together patients, providers, and payers in one seamless system.

This tool stands out for its integrated approach that breaks down the silos within healthcare operations, making it best for network-enabled medical services.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include comprehensive electronic health records system, practice management, and patient engagement capabilities stand out. These features provide a streamlined workflow that enhances patient care and practice efficiency.

Integrations include a wide array of third-party systems like labs, pharmacies, imaging centers, and health systems, adding to its interoperability.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Cloud-based system for remote access
  • Robust patient engagement tools
  • Broad range of integrations with other healthcare systems and devices

Cons:

  • Limited customization options for certain workflows
  • Complexity of the system may result in a learning curve

Best for customization options catering to individual practice needs

  • From $40/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

EHR Your Way is a medical software system providing an electronic health record (EHR) platform that excels in adaptability. It stands out for its customization abilities, which allow each healthcare practice to tailor the system to meet its unique needs and workflow.

Why I Picked EHR Your Way: I chose EHR Your Way for its standout ability to be customized according to individual practice needs. Many EHR systems tend to take a one-size-fits-all approach, but EHR Your Way flips that model on its head.

It's for this reason I believe EHR Your Way is best suited for customization options catering to individual practice needs.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include voice dictation and template-based note-taking are crucial features in EHR Your Way. These improve efficiency by reducing manual data entry.

Integrations include numerous other software systems, including billing software, laboratory systems, and patient scheduling tools, making it a well-rounded EHR solution.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of useful integrations
  • Voice dictation for easy data entry
  • High level of customization

Cons:

  • Customer service may vary
  • Learning curve for customization may be steep
  • Setup fees are not included in base pricing

Best for cloud-based integrated solutions for patient-centered care

  • From $149/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 3.8/5

Practice Fusion operates as a robust, cloud-based EHR solution, equipped to support medical professionals in delivering patient-centered care. Its comprehensive suite offers a unified platform for managing patient data, coordinating care, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Why I Picked Practice Fusion: I selected Practice Fusion for this list due to its versatility, intuitive interface, and commitment to facilitating patient-centered care. Its cloud-based framework allows healthcare providers to access and manage patient data seamlessly.

It stands out in its commitment to integrating multiple features into one platform, making it an excellent choice for practices looking for a comprehensive solution.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include its e-prescribing feature, patient portal, and customizable templates which significantly improve patient engagement and clinical workflow.

Integrations include ICD-10 codes and includes features for charting, scheduling, and referrals. Integration-wise, it syncs well with various labs, imaging centers, and pharmacies, allowing practitioners to send and receive information swiftly and efficiently.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Robust integrations with labs, pharmacies, and imaging centers
  • Comprehensive patient portal to enhance patient engagement
  • Cloud-based platform offering accessibility from anywhere

Cons:

  • Some advanced features might require a learning curve
  • Transitioning from paper to digital records can be time-consuming
  • Some users may find the user interface slightly complex initially

Best for a comprehensive suite offering from the emergency department to home health

  • Pricing upon request

Meditech Expanse is a robust, full-featured electronic health record (EHR) system that delivers comprehensive coverage across a full spectrum of care. From the emergency department to home health, Meditech Expanse brings a level of continuity and cohesion to patient care.

Why I Picked Meditech Expanse: When selecting Meditech Expanse for this list, its encompassing nature and adaptability across various healthcare settings were pivotal. It distinguishes itself with its ability to offer solutions from the emergency department to home health, covering a full care spectrum.

It's this versatility and comprehensiveness that make it the top pick for a full-suite offering.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include patient portal, mobile point of care, and acute care features offer crucial tools for healthcare providers.

Integrations include systems like LabCorp, Nuance Communications, and DrFirst, also significantly enhance its functionality.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of useful features
  • High level of interoperability with other systems
  • Covers a full spectrum of care

Cons:

  • Customization options might be limited
  • Potential complexity for first-time users
  • Lack of transparent pricing

Best for advanced analytics and population health management

  • Pricing upon request

Cerner is a global leader in healthcare technology, providing a multifaceted EHR solution designed to streamline patient care and health management. Known for its superior analytics and population health management capabilities.

Why I Picked Cerner: Choosing Cerner was straightforward, given its reputation as a pioneer in healthcare technology and the robust analytics it offers. Its exceptional focus on population health management sets it apart from the crowd, and this was a key factor in my decision-making process.

Cerner's comprehensive and advanced analytics tools make it ideal for practices that prioritize data-driven decision making and population health management.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include revenue cycle management, patient engagement tools, and clinical decision support. It stands tall with its advanced analytics capabilities, which support evidence-based care and population health management.

Integrations include a wide range of medical devices, third-party applications, and interoperability platforms, offering a high degree of connectivity.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations for increased connectivity
  • Strong focus on population health management
  • Excellent advanced analytics tools for evidence-based care

Cons:

  • Initial setup and implementation can be time-consuming
  • May be overwhelming for small practices due to its comprehensive features
  • Pricing information is not readily available

Best for independent medical practices seeking streamlined workflows

  • From $160/user/month (billed annually)

Kareo Clinical is an EHR platform specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of independent medical practices. Offering intuitive navigation and a streamlined approach to patient care.

Why I Picked Kareo Clinical: I picked Kareo Clinical due to its specialized focus on independent medical practices. It's rare to find an EHR platform that tailors its services so precisely to the needs of these providers.

Kareo Clinical offers a streamlined workflow design that makes it best for independent medical practices seeking efficient operations.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include electronic prescriptions, a user-friendly patient portal, and customizable charting. Its telehealth capabilities are particularly noteworthy in today's digital age.

Integrations include billing software, labs, and pharmacies augment the platform's capabilities, providing a comprehensive solution for providers.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Telehealth capabilities support modern healthcare needs
  • Streamlined workflows enhance efficiency
  • Tailored to the unique needs of independent medical practices

Cons:

  • Requires consistent internet connectivity for optimal operation
  • User interface could be more intuitive for new users
  • Pricing might be steep for smaller practices

Best for telemedicine integration enhancing remote patient care

  • From $30/user/month

DocVilla is a comprehensive healthcare software solution that stands out for its emphasis on telemedicine. It is designed to bridge the distance between healthcare providers and their patients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance remote patient care.

Why I Picked DocVilla: I picked DocVilla primarily because of its robust telemedicine capabilities. In a time where remote healthcare is more important than ever, DocVilla's dedication to facilitating high-quality remote patient care is quite noteworthy.

It offers a unique combination of telehealth features that distinguish it from other healthcare software solutions.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include a user-friendly patient portal, secure messaging, online appointment scheduling, and real-time video consultations, making it a holistic telemedicine platform.

Integrations include various payment gateways for easy online payments and works smoothly with third-party scheduling systems.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Affordable starting price
  • Seamless third-party integrations
  • Comprehensive telemedicine capabilities

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • Could have more advanced analytics
  • Does not offer a free trial

Best for an interoperable platform promoting connectivity in healthcare

  • From $299/user/month

Allscripts is a renowned EHR platform that leverages interoperability to enhance connectivity in healthcare. It offers an integrated approach to care management, streamlining processes while enabling efficient collaboration among healthcare providers, making it an ideal fit.

Why I Picked Allscripts: I chose Allscripts because of its ability to seamlessly connect various healthcare services. The strength of its interoperability is quite exceptional and stood out in comparison to other platforms.

In a healthcare landscape where collaboration and data sharing are crucial, Allscripts shines, making it perfect for those seeking to promote connectivity.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include e-prescribing, robust documentation capabilities, and practice management tools. It shines particularly in its interoperability, enabling seamless data sharing across various platforms.

Integrations include pharmacies, labs, radiology centers, and other EHR systems, which make it a highly connected and versatile platform.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations with healthcare services and platforms
  • Robust documentation capabilities for comprehensive record-keeping
  • Excellent interoperability promoting seamless connectivity

Cons:

  • Some users report occasional lags in system performance
  • May require dedicated training to fully utilize all features
  • Higher starting price might be prohibitive for smaller practices

Best for clinical-first EHR emphasizing provider-patient relationship

  • From $299/user/month

Elation is an Electronic Health Records (EHR) platform that puts the clinical experience first in its design. It specifically focuses on reinforcing the bond between healthcare providers and their patients, which is why it shines as the best tool for fostering provider-patient relationships.

Why I Picked Elation: I chose Elation because of its unique commitment to the provider-patient relationship. In a sector that can sometimes feel impersonal, Elation stands out for its attention to the human element of healthcare.

Its clinical-first approach makes it ideal for practices keen on maintaining strong patient connections.

Standout features & integrations: 

Features include a one-screen view of a patient's health history, providing easy access during patient visits. It also has an intuitive prescription management system.

Integrations include laboratory and pharmacy systems across the country, making it easier to order tests and fill prescriptions.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations with labs and pharmacies
  • Clinical Cockpit offers comprehensive patient overviews
  • Prioritizes provider-patient relationships

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve for less tech-savvy users
  • Limited billing features
  • Price point may be high for smaller practices

Other EHR Software Tools

Below is a list of additional EHR Software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.

  1. Pabau

    Good for clinics seeking a CRM integrated EHR

  2. AdvancedMD

    Good for its cloud-based platform offering remote accessibility

  3. Valant

    Good for behavioral health providers seeking a specialized EHR

  4. eClinicalWorks

    Good for comprehensive cloud-based healthcare IT solutions

  5. PrognoCIS

    Good for integrated EHR, practice management, and billing services

  6. MEDHOST

    Good for hospital EHR and emergency department solutions

  7. Luminello

    Good for mental health practitioners seeking tailored EHR solutions

  8. PracticeEHR

    Good for small to medium-sized practices with diverse needs

  9. Veradigm

    Good for advanced data analytics and insights

  10. Alltera TouchWorks EHR

    Good for adaptable, mobile-friendly EHR solutions

EHR Software Selection Criteria

When selecting the best EHR software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and ease of use. 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:

  • Manage patient records
  • Schedule appointments
  • Facilitate billing and invoicing
  • Provide clinical documentation
  • Ensure compliance with regulations

Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:

  • Customizable templates
  • Integrated telehealth capabilities
  • Advanced analytics and reporting
  • Patient portal access
  • Mobile app availability

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 training required
  • User-friendly layout
  • Consistent performance

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 and tutorials
  • Step-by-step setup guides
  • Support during data migration

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:

  • 24/7 support availability
  • Response time to inquiries
  • Availability of live chat
  • Access to a knowledge base
  • Quality of support documentation

Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:

  • Competitive pricing
  • Transparent pricing model
  • Features included in base price
  • Discounts for annual billing
  • Cost relative to features offered

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Overall satisfaction rating
  • Commonly praised features
  • Reported issues or bugs
  • Feedback on customer service
  • User recommendations and testimonials

How to Choose EHR 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:

FactorWhat to Consider
ScalabilityCan the software grow with your practice? Consider future expansion, patient volume, and whether the tool can handle increased demand without additional costs.
IntegrationsDoes it integrate with your existing tools? Look for compatibility with billing systems, labs, and other essential software you use.
CustomizabilityCan you tailor the software to fit your workflows? Check if it allows adjustments in templates, fields, and reports to match your practice's needs.
Ease of useIs the software intuitive for your team? Assess how quickly staff can learn it and whether it requires extensive training, which could disrupt daily operations.
Implementation and onboardingHow long will it take to get up and running? Consider the vendor's support during setup and whether training resources are readily available.
CostWhat’s the total cost of ownership? Look beyond the sticker price to include training, support, and any additional fees that might arise as your needs change.
Security safeguardsHow does it protect patient data? Ensure it meets HIPAA standards and offers encryption and regular security updates to keep data safe.
Compliance requirementsDoes it help with regulatory compliance? Verify it supports documentation and reporting needed for healthcare regulations and standards applicable to your practice.

What Is EHR Software?

EHR software is a digital solution for managing patient records and healthcare information. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and administrative staff, use these tools to improve patient care and operational efficiency. Scheduling, billing, and clinical documentation features help with organizing data, reducing errors, and ensuring compliance. Overall, these tools enhance the quality and coordination of healthcare services.

Features of EHR Software

When selecting EHR software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Patient records management: Stores and organizes patient information to ensure quick access and accuracy.
  • Appointment scheduling: Simplifies booking and managing patient appointments to improve workflow and reduce no-shows.
  • Billing and invoicing: Automates the billing process, helping with accurate invoicing and timely payments.
  • Clinical documentation: Facilitates documentation of patient encounters, ensuring compliance and comprehensive record-keeping.
  • Compliance support: Assists with meeting healthcare regulations and standards to maintain legal and ethical practices.
  • Data security: Protects sensitive patient information with encryption and regular security updates.
  • Customizable templates: Allows tailoring of forms and fields to match specific practice needs and preferences.
  • Integration capabilities: Connects with other healthcare systems and tools to provide a unified workflow.
  • Patient portal: Offers patients access to their health information, enhancing communication and engagement.
  • Mobile access: Provides healthcare professionals with the flexibility to access records and manage tasks on-the-go.

Benefits of EHR Software

Implementing EHR software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Improved patient care: Access to accurate and comprehensive patient records enhances decision-making and treatment plans.
  • Increased efficiency: Automating tasks like scheduling and billing reduces administrative workload and speeds up operations.
  • Enhanced compliance: Built-in compliance support helps your practice meet healthcare regulations and standards.
  • Better data security: Protecting patient information with advanced security features minimizes the risk of data breaches.
  • Greater patient engagement: Patient portals enable patients to access their health information, fostering communication and involvement in their care.
  • Cost savings: Streamlining processes and reducing errors can lead to significant savings for your practice.
  • Flexibility and accessibility: Mobile access allows healthcare professionals to manage tasks and access records from anywhere, improving flexibility.

Costs and Pricing of EHR Software

Selecting EHR software 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 EHR software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for EHR Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic patient records management, appointment scheduling, and basic reporting.
Personal Plan$10-$30/user/monthAdvanced scheduling, billing and invoicing, and basic compliance support.
Business Plan$50-$100/user/monthComprehensive patient records, advanced reporting, custom templates, and integration capabilities.
Enterprise Plan$150-$300/user/monthFull compliance support, advanced security features, mobile access, and dedicated customer support.

EHR Software FAQ’s

What are the benefits of using EHR software?

EHR software offers several benefits to healthcare providers.

  • Centralizes all patient information, making it easy to access and update.
  • Streamlines administrative tasks such as appointment scheduling, billing, and insurance claims, saving time and reducing errors.
  • Enhances communication between patients and providers through features like patient portals.
  • Improves clinical decision-making by providing tools such as alerts and reminders based on evidence-based guidelines.
  • Facilitates coordination of care by allowing for data exchange with other systems like pharmacies, laboratories, and other healthcare providers.

How much does EHR software cost?

The cost of EHR software can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the practice, the level of customization required, and the specific features needed. Prices can range from as low as $10 per user per month for basic plans to several hundred dollars per user per month for advanced plans with more features.

What are the common pricing models for EHR software?

The most common pricing models for EHR software are subscription-based and per-user pricing. Subscription-based pricing involves a recurring fee, usually monthly or annually, and often includes maintenance and support services. Per-user pricing charges a set fee for each user or license, with costs decreasing as more licenses are purchased.

What is the typical range of pricing for EHR software?

The typical range of pricing for EHR software can be from around $10 to $500 per user per month. This wide range reflects the diversity of EHR software in terms of features, functionality, and the targeted size of healthcare practices.

Which are the cheapest and most expensive EHR software?

Among the EHR software options, Practice Fusion is one of the more affordable choices, offering a cloud-based EHR starting from $99 per user per month. On the higher end, Epic Systems, a comprehensive EHR used by large hospitals and healthcare systems, can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.

Are there any free EHR software options?

Yes, there are a few free EHR software options available, but they may be limited in terms of features and support. For instance, OpenEMR is an open-source EHR software that is free to use. However, costs may be incurred for customization, data migration, and other services.

What Next?

To stay updated on the latest trends, best practices, and solutions related to your medical practice, subscribe to The Medical Practice newsletter.

John Payne
By John Payne

John Payne is the co-founder and company director of Symphony Health. With over 20 years of management experience John is working alongside his wife, Dr. Kate Payne to build a multi-site Medical Practice where staff work collaboratively for the good of their patients. John is passionate about improving access to quality Healthcare in North Vancouver and sharing best practice with other people managing medical practices.