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I know managing an outpatient medical practice can be challenging, especially regarding clinical documentation, generating note templates, and adjusting to various platforms such as Android. That's where medical practice management software provides valuable tools such as dashboards for quick overviews, payment processing systems, and organized progress notes.

The software truly shines when dealing with specific medical field needs such as therapy billing, treatment notes, and assessments. It considers the unique requirements of clinics, offering a web-based EMR system that simplifies the handling of detailed therapy documentation. By addressing these main pain points, the right software not only alleviates the administrative load but also allows medical professionals to concentrate more on patient care, enhancing the overall efficiency and quality of the practice.

What Is Occupational Therapy Software?

Occupational therapy software is a specialized digital toolset for therapists and their teams. These platforms streamline every facet of an occupational therapy practice, from patient scheduling and treatment planning to billing and reporting. Independent practitioners, therapy clinics, and hospital departments typically use the software to efficiently manage their operations, improve patient outcomes, and ensure regulatory compliance.

It's a pivotal resource that significantly reduces administrative workload, provides cloud-based EMR software for PT, OT, and SLP, enhances patient engagement SOAP notes, and fosters better communication within the team, making it an invaluable asset in the rapidly evolving field of occupational therapy.

Best Occupational Therapy Software Summary

Tools Price
Pabau From $75/user/month (billed annually)
Kareo From $110/user/month
DrChrono From $199/user/month (billed annually)
CentralReach From $30/user/month
Net Health Pricing upon request.
OwlPractice From $30/user/month
ClinicSource From $80/month (for 1 user)
bestPT From $199/user/month
Power Diary From $26/user/month, (billed annually).
Fusion From $149/user/month
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Best Occupational Therapy Software Reviews

Best for client relationship management

  • From $75/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 4.7/5

Pabau is a comprehensive clinic management software that caters to healthcare and salon businesses. Its functionality spans from scheduling appointments to managing client relationships. Pabau’s focus on streamlining front-desk operations and its robust CRM capabilities justify its position as the best for appointment scheduling and customer relationship management in clinics and salons.

Why I Picked Pabau:

I selected Pabau because it provides a suite of tools that are highly targeted for the specific needs of clinics and salons. Its stand-out feature, the combination of appointment scheduling and a robust CRM, sets it apart from other similar tools. These distinctive features led me to determine Pabau as the ideal choice for managing appointments and customer relationships in these settings.

Standout Features and Integrations:

Pabau's key features include a user-friendly calendar for scheduling and managing appointments, coupled with a powerful CRM for enhancing customer relations. The software also provides a stock management feature that's invaluable for businesses with a retail component. Pabau integrates well with numerous payment gateways, accounting software like Xero, and marketing tools such as Mailchimp.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations to enhance functionality
  • User-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and use
  • Combines appointment scheduling with a robust CRM

Cons:

  • Some users may find the setup and learning curve demanding
  • Annual billing may not offer flexibility for all businesses
  • Pricing might be high for small businesses

Best for combining clinical, billing and patient engagement

  • Free demo available
  • From $110/user/month
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Rating: 4/5

Kareo is a cloud-based medical software tool that offers solutions for scheduling, billing, and patient engagement, including integrated telehealth features. It's well-suited for occupational therapy practices that want to offer virtual sessions to their patients, hence being best for its integrated telehealth functionality.

Why I Picked Kareo:

In determining the list, Kareo emerged as a top pick for its inclusion of telehealth as a core part of its offering. This stands out in the field of occupational therapy software, many of which don't provide this feature as comprehensively. I think it's best for integrated telehealth features, providing the ability for therapists to offer virtual sessions seamlessly, a need that has become critical in today's healthcare landscape.

Standout Features and Integrations:

Kareo offers vital features such as appointment scheduling, billing and invoicing, and a patient portal. What's notable, however, is its integrated telehealth platform that allows for video consultations and virtual patient visits. Integrations-wise, Kareo supports synchronizing with leading EHRs (Electronic Health Records) and can also interface with labs and pharmacies.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers patient engagement tools through its patient portal
  • Synchronizes with leading EHRs
  • Integrated telehealth platform for virtual visits

Cons:

  • User interface might have a learning curve for some users
  • Telehealth feature may not be needed by all practices
  • Higher starting price compared to some competitors

Best for integrating EHR and practice management

  • Free demo available
  • From $199/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 3.5/5

DrChrono is a cloud-based EHR software with a particular module for physical therapy practices. It also covers everything from patient management and medical billing to clinical charting and scheduling. Its deep focus on physical therapy workflows makes it an excellent choice for managing physical therapy practices.

Why I Picked DrChrono:

I chose DrChrono for its extensive features catering to the specific needs of physical therapy practices. The software's in-depth customization options distinguish it from other general EHR solutions. Additionally, this level of customization and targeted functionality solidifies DrChrono as the best for physical therapy practice management.

Standout Features and Integrations:

DrChrono includes features like appointment reminders, medical billing tools, customizable clinical forms, and telehealth capabilities. These features can also cater to the unique requirements of physical therapists and help streamline their practice. The software integrates with various external systems like laboratories, pharmacies, and billing services, enhancing its utility for physical therapy practices.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with various external systems for a complete solution
  • Provides a comprehensive set of features, including telehealth capabilities
  • Offers deep customization options suitable for physical therapy practices

Cons:

  • The user interface might be complex for beginners due to the broad range of features.
  • There may be additional costs for add-on features.
  • The pricing can be relatively high for small practices.

Best for comprehensive practice management

  • From $30/user/month

CentralReach is a leading practice management solution designed explicitly for the applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy sector. This software offers clinicians, educators, and administrators tools to help manage every facet of a practice, from data collection to billing. The wide range of features and specialty focus make it ideal for comprehensive practice management and data collection in ABA therapy.

Why I Picked CentralReach:

In choosing CentralReach, I was influenced by the platform's ability to offer a broad range of services tailored to ABA therapy. Its depth and breadth of features, from scheduling to progress tracking, set it apart from other practice management tools. Its strong focus on ABA therapy also led me to believe it is the best tool for comprehensive practice management and data collection in this field.

Standout Features and Integrations:

CentralReach's most notable feature is its robust data collection module, which allows for real-time tracking of client progress. Additionally, the software's integrated billing and claims management feature highly streamlines financial processes. Moreover, CentralReach can integrate with other software, including electronic health record (EHR) systems, accounting software, and popular educational tools.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integration with other popular software for a more streamlined workflow
  • Robust data collection and tracking capabilities
  • A comprehensive suite of tools designed explicitly for ABA therapy

Cons:

  • The implementation and training process could be time-consuming
  • The interface might be complex for some users to navigate.
  • Pricing could be on the higher side for small practices.

Best for comprehensive rehab therapy management

  • Free demo available.
  • Pricing upon request.

Net Health is a specialized therapy management tool that provides EHR, billing, and patient engagement features tailored for occupational therapists. This platform is dedicated to simplifying daily administrative tasks and enhancing patient care for therapists. Its specific focus on occupational therapy makes it ideal for such practices.

Why I Picked Net Health:

I selected Net Health for this list because it is specifically designed for occupational therapy. This specialization makes it uniquely tailored to the needs of these practices, which sets it apart from more general tools. Its targeted feature set makes it best for occupational therapy practices.

Standout Features and Integrations:

Critical features of Net Health include appointment scheduling, insurance verification, custom documentation, billing, and a patient portal. These capabilities also collectively streamline the administrative side of occupational therapy. For integrations, Net Health connects with various billing systems and medical imaging devices, making it easier to consolidate different practice aspects.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers necessary integrations with billing systems and medical imaging devices
  • Includes an array of features from scheduling to billing
  • Tailored specifically for occupational therapy practices

Cons:

  • Limited versatility for practices outside occupational therapy
  • The interface may not be as intuitive as other platforms.
  • Pricing information is not readily available, which could deter potential users.

Best for managing appointments and client records

  • From $30/user/month

OwlPractice is a Canadian-based practice management tool for healthcare providers, providing solutions for scheduling, invoicing, and documentation. It has been specifically created to meet the requirements of Canadian healthcare practices, including privacy laws, making it an ideal choice for practitioners seeking a local solution.

Why I Picked OwlPractice:

I chose OwlPractice for this list due to its specialized focus on the Canadian healthcare context. The fact that it is Canadian-built, and therefore adheres to the unique privacy and healthcare standards of Canada, sets it apart from other solutions. I consider it the best for Canadian practitioners because it offers features and compliances specifically designed for their unique needs.

Standout Features and Integrations:

OwlPractice offers key features such as appointment scheduling, detailed client profiles, and secure record keeping that are essential for managing a healthcare practice. When it comes to integrations, OwlPractice can synchronize with Google Calendar, and it provides secure data storage, complying with Canadian data privacy laws.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers integrations with Google Calendar for improved scheduling
  • Complies with Canadian privacy laws for secure record keeping
  • Designed specifically for the Canadian market

Cons:

  • It may not have as many integration options as more globally focused platforms
  • Its user interface might be less intuitive compared to some competitors
  • Less suitable for non-Canadian practices due to its specific focus

Best for streamlining documentation and reporting

  • Free demo available
  • From $80/month (for 1 user)

ClinicSource is a practice management software that combines electronic health records (EHR), scheduling, billing, and documentation into a single platform. It is designed to be a comprehensive solution for healthcare providers, including therapists, allowing them to manage every aspect of their practice in one place. This comprehensive approach makes it most suited for those seeking an all-in-one management tool.

Why I Picked ClinicSource:

In comparing various options, I picked ClinicSource for its comprehensive nature, integrating many different aspects of practice management into one platform. It stands out as it significantly reduces the need for multiple separate tools, simplifying administrative tasks. Due to this integrated approach, I determined it to be the best for comprehensive practice management.

Standout Features and Integrations:

ClinicSource's most valuable features are its in-depth documentation capabilities, robust scheduling system, and integrated billing. These aspects help streamline many of the daily tasks of running a therapy practice. Regarding integrations, ClinicSource can integrate with various insurance providers and billing systems, reducing the need to switch platforms.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrated with numerous insurance providers and billing systems
  • Robust documentation capabilities for in-depth record keeping
  • Comprehensive platform, combining multiple management aspects

Cons:

  • The user interface might be overwhelming for some users
  • The learning curve might be steep due to its wide range of features.
  • No public pricing information, which can make budget planning more difficult

Best for billing and revenue cycle management

  • From $199/user/month

bestPT is a cloud-based physical therapy practice management software designed to streamline administrative processes, particularly billing. The system offers a combination of scheduling, documentation, and an emphasis on revenue cycle management. Given its specific design and focus on physical therapy practices, I see bestPT as ideally suited for managing and optimizing billing within this sector.

Why I Picked bestPT:

I picked bestPT for its specialized service offering. It focuses on physical therapy practices, making it unique compared to general medical practice management tools. Its comprehensive billing functionality also makes it stand out. Thus, I selected bestPT as the best tool for physical therapy practice management, particularly for those seeking to improve their billing process.

Standout Features and Integrations:

bestPT's claim scrubbing feature is particularly useful, reducing claim denials and increasing revenue. Furthermore, the appointment scheduling feature coupled with an intuitive patient documentation system contributes to a smooth workflow. The software integrates with several electronic health records (EHR) systems, as well as patient communication and reporting tools.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with several EHR systems for smooth data flow
  • Comprehensive billing functionality for improved revenue management
  • Specializes in physical therapy practice management

Cons:

  • It may have a learning curve for those not familiar with medical billing processes
  • A one-time setup fee is required, which might add to the initial cost
  • The pricing could be steep for small or newly-established practices

Best for appointment scheduling and reminders

  • From $26/user/month, (billed annually).

Power Diary is an online practice management software designed for health clinics, including occupational therapy practices. It offers an intuitive interface that simplifies tasks such as appointment scheduling, invoicing, and client management. Given its intuitive nature, Power Diary is best for those seeking ease of use in their occupational therapy software.

Why I Picked Power Diary:

In compiling this list, I selected Power Diary for its user-friendly design and simplicity. Compared to other tools, it takes a more straightforward approach, making it an attractive choice for those not wanting to navigate complex systems. I believe Power Diary stands out as the best for ease of use, offering straightforward solutions to the common needs of occupational therapy practices.

Standout Features and Integrations:

Power Diary provides several useful features like SMS appointment reminders, online booking, client management tools, and a secure telehealth option. In terms of integrations, it syncs with popular calendar apps and supports data import from other practice management software.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Online booking facilitates easier client scheduling
  • Offers secure telehealth option for virtual sessions
  • User-friendly design makes it easy to navigate

Cons:

  • Requires an annual commitment for the lowest pricing tier
  • Features may be limited compared to more advanced systems
  • The cost might be high for small practices

Best for pediatric therapy practices

  • From $149/user/month

Fusion is a comprehensive pediatric therapy electronic health record (EHR) system. It provides scheduling, billing, and documentation tools specially designed for pediatric therapy clinics. Given its specific focus on this niche, Fusion is the best pediatric therapy clinic management choice.

Why I Picked Fusion:

Fusion made my list because it specializes in pediatric therapy. Its combination of a user-friendly interface and features tailored for this specific healthcare sector makes it different from other general EHR systems. That's why I have identified Fusion as the best for managing pediatric therapy clinics.

Standout Features and Integrations:

Fusion's standout features include pediatric-specific templates for documentation, a robust scheduling system, and an efficient billing module. The software also provides a patient portal for accessible communication and engagement. Fusion integrates seamlessly with numerous billing systems and can generate detailed reports for performance analysis.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Includes a patient portal for enhanced communication
  • Provides a robust scheduling and billing system
  • Offers features designed explicitly for pediatric therapy clinics

Cons:

  • Higher learning curve due to its comprehensive features
  • Lacks integrations with non-medical software, like accounting or HR systems
  • Requires a minimum of two users, which might not suit solo practitioners

Other Occupational Therapy Software

Below is a list of additional occupational therapy software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.

  1. Raintree

    Best for scalable therapy practice solutions

  2. SimplePractice

    Best for solo practitioners and small practices

  3. vcita

    Good for integrated client engagement

  4. WebPT

    Good for integrated billing features

  5. Noterro

    Good for massage therapy practices

  6. PracticePro

    Good for physical therapy practice management

  7. Logik

    Good for streamlining office management tasks

  8. Jane

    Good for multi-disciplinary health & wellness practices

  9. IntakeQ

    Good for secure patient intake forms

  10. Noteable

    Good for comprehensive note-taking features

  11. TherapyiQ

    Good for telehealth functionality

  12. IntelliLogix

    Good for data-driven decision-making in skilled nursing

  13. MyClientsPlus

    Good for mental health practices

  14. MidexPro

    Good for medical administration in private practices

  15. Clinicient

    Good for electronic medical record (EMR) solutions

  16. SynergyPT

    Good for multi-location physical therapy clinics

  17. Cliniko

    Good for appointment reminders and confirmations

Selection Criteria For Occupational Therapy Software

In the quest for the best occupational therapy software, I've navigated my way through countless tools, testing and researching their ins and outs. My deep dive involved exploring more than 30 tools, each with its unique promise and functionality. However, a few stood out because of their alignment with the specific needs of occupational therapy practitioners, which I'm detailing below.

Core Functionality

For occupational therapy software, the tool should empower you to:

  • Schedule appointments effectively
  • I’d like for you to maintain accurate patient records.
  • Manage billing and insurance claims.
  • Monitor patient progress over time.
  • I’d like for you to conduct teletherapy sessions if needed.

Key Features

Here are some essential features that matter specifically for occupational therapy software:

  • Electronic Health Records (EHR): Secure, easy-to-access electronic patient records are vital to managing patient information effectively.
  • Scheduling and Appointment Reminders: A feature that helps prevent no-shows by managing appointments and sending patient reminders.
  • Teletherapy Functionality: With the rise of telemedicine, a platform that supports remote therapy sessions can be crucial.
  • Billing and Insurance Claims Management: Simplifying the financial side of the practice, this feature helps manage payments, generate invoices, and handle insurance claims.
  • Customizable Treatment Plans: Tailoring treatment plans to individual patients' needs can enhance the effectiveness of therapy.

Usability

The following factors are significant when it comes to usability in occupational therapy software:

  • Intuitive Interface: The software should have a clean, organized interface that's easy to navigate, letting therapists focus on their work rather than figuring out the tool.
  • Ease of Onboarding: The tool must provide clear onboarding instructions, video tutorials, or a dedicated support team to familiarize oneself with its features.
  • Responsive Customer Support: Prompt and knowledgeable customer service is essential, especially when dealing with patient-sensitive information.
  • Access Levels and Permissions: Role-based access ensures the correct information is accessible to the right people in practice, protecting patient privacy and data security.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Given the nature of the profession, therapists often need access to patient data on the go, making a robust mobile app or mobile-friendly interface highly desirable.

Most Common Questions for Occupational Therapy Software (FAQs)

What are the benefits of using occupational therapy software?

Utilizing occupational therapy software offers several advantages:

  1. Efficient Practice Management: Such software streamlines scheduling, billing, documentation, and other administrative tasks, saving you valuable time.
  2. Improved Patient Care: Features like customizable treatment plans and patient progress tracking enable you to deliver better patient care.
  3. Secure Patient Data Management: Electronic health record capabilities allow for secure, HIPAA-compliant patient data storage and access.
  4. Teletherapy Support: Some software provides features making conducting remote sessions easier when needed.
  5. Enhanced Communication: Many tools facilitate more accessible patient communication through built-in messaging systems or appointment reminders.

How much do occupational therapy software tools usually cost?

Occupational therapy software typically adopts a subscription-based pricing model, charged monthly or annually. The price often varies based on the number of users and the suite of features included.

What is the typical range of pricing for these tools?

The cost of occupational therapy software can range widely, typically from around $20 per user per month to over $200 per month for more advanced offerings.

Which are the cheapest and most expensive occupational therapy software tools?

From the tools evaluated, TherapyNotes seems to be among the more affordable options, starting at $49 per month. On the other end of the spectrum, products like Clinicient may be pricier, with costs typically higher due to their extensive features and functionalities.

Are there any free occupational therapy software options?

As of my last update in July 2023, free comprehensive occupational therapy software options are scarce. However, some tools offer free trials, allowing you to test the software before committing to a paid plan. While a free tool may sound appealing, it often needs more breadth of features and support needed for efficient practice management.

Other Healthcare Software Reviews

Summary

In conclusion, selecting the right occupational therapy software is crucial to improving practice management and patient care. Each tool brings distinct features and benefits, making a choice dependent on individual practice needs and priorities.

Key takeaways:

  1. Understand Your Needs: Different software solutions excel in different areas, such as patient management, billing, teletherapy, or integrations. I want you to know that identifying your essential requirements is the first step to finding a tool that suits your practice.
  2. Pricing Structure Matters: Pricing models for occupational therapy software can vary widely, often based on the number of users and features included. Consider not only the cost but also the value of your investment.
  3. Usability Is Key: Regardless of how feature-rich a tool may be, it must be user-friendly. Please be sure to look for software that has an intuitive interface, provides training or resources for onboarding, and offers reliable customer support.

What Do You Think?

While the occupational therapy software listed above represents some of the top options available, I may have missed a few. After all, the technology landscape is continually evolving, and new innovative solutions are constantly entering the market.

If you've been using a tool you think deserves to be on this list, please share it with me. I’m always eager to learn about new resources that could help professionals in occupational therapy.

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.