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Navigating the healthcare industry, particularly in the landscape of ACOs, it's imperative to leverage tools that enhance patient experience, reduce costs, and deliver quality measures. Population Health Management software is that necessary tool - a case study in cost-effective healthcare delivery. This software allows healthcare providers to stratify patient populations, manage transitions, track referrals, and essentially transform from a fee-for-service model to a value-based care system. As someone who has explored numerous options in this domain, I understand your need for a tool that's robust and reliable.

Population Health Management software not only offers a platform to monitor and manage the health of a large patient population, but it also gives healthcare organizations the ability to improve health outcomes while lowering costs. Pain points such as uncoordinated care, lack of patient data integration, and ineffective cost management can all be addressed with the right Population Health Management software.

With the tool, you'll have the power to streamline processes, enhance patient engagement, and deliver a higher standard of care. Trust me when I say exploring these options could be a significant game-changer for your healthcare delivery system.

What Is Population Health Management Software?

Population health management software is a strategic tool employed by healthcare providers, hospitals, clinicians, health systems, and payers to analyze and manage the health data of a specific group or population. These platforms leverage a combination of technology, health data, and care interventions to improve outcomes.

They collect patient data across various health information technology resources, process that data into usable information, and then utilize this information to track, manage, and improve both individual and population health. From managing chronic conditions to optimizing wellness initiatives, this software aids healthcare professionals in identifying health risks and care gaps, predicting patient health trajectories, and coordinating care delivery to patient health optimization while reducing the cost of care.

Best Population Health Management Software Summary

Tool Best For Trial Info Price
1
eClinicalWorks

Here's the screenshot of the score trend dashboard in eClinacalWorks.

Best for a multi-feature platform that includes telehealth options

Not available

From $449/user/month Website
2
Healthify

Here's the website screenshot of Healthify.

Best for effective social determinants of health tracking

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
3
athenaOne

Here's AthenaOne's EHR management feature, which has patient vitals tracking capability.

Best for integrated EHR, practice management, and patient engagement

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
4
Olio

Here's Olio's real-time insights feature, which shows a better understanding of the length of stay, and readmission rates, along with other data.

Best for connecting healthcare teams across different settings

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
5
Clarify Health

Screenshot of healthcare analytics feature in Clarify Health.

Best for predictive insights in population health

Not available

Pricing upon request. Website
6
League

Here's the health risk dashboard feature in League.

Best for customizable health benefit plans

Not available

From $10/user/month. Website
7
Allscripts CareDirector

Here's the scheduling feature in Allscripts CareDirector.

Best for coordinating care across a multitude of providers

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
8
HealthEC

Here's the HealthEC organization summary dashboard sample.

Best for advanced data analytics and patient care management

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
9
Optum Health Care Advisor

Here's the member profile feature in Optum Health Care Advisor, which identifies drivers of risk and other demographic information.

Best for comprehensive health care advisory services

Not available

Pricing upon request Website
10
HealtheCare

Here's the screenshot of HealtheCare's website.

Best for managing chronic diseases with a holistic approach

Not available

Pricing upon request Website

Best Population Health Management Software Reviews

Best for a multi-feature platform that includes telehealth options

  • From $449/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 3.6/5

eClinicalWorks is a unified electronic health record (EHR) and practice management solution that provides tools for patient engagement, telehealth, population health, and financial analytics. Its inclusion of telehealth options makes it suitable for healthcare providers aiming to deliver services virtually while also managing the in-person aspects of patient care.

Why I Picked eClinicalWorks:

In selecting tools, I prioritized versatility and inclusivity of features. eClinicalWorks stood out for its wide array of functionalities, particularly the inclusion of telehealth capabilities. I found this comprehensive approach to patient care invaluable, making eClinicalWorks my choice as the best tool for a multi-feature platform that includes telehealth options.

Standout features and integrations:

eClinicalWorks offers key features such as appointment scheduling, billing and coding, and comprehensive EHRs. Notably, its telehealth capabilities stand out, allowing providers to conduct virtual visits. As for integrations, eClinicalWorks pairs with numerous third-party applications, which can provide additional features like radiology information systems or clinical decision support.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Provides a unified platform for both EHR and practice management.
  • Strong integration capabilities with other third-party apps.
  • Comprehensive tool with multiple features including telehealth.

Cons:

  • Telehealth options may not be necessary for providers focusing on in-person services.
  • The comprehensive nature of the platform may entail a steeper learning curve.
  • Higher pricing compared to some other platforms.

Best for effective social determinants of health tracking

  • Pricing upon request

Healthify is a population health management tool that specializes in tracking social determinants of health (SDOH). With a core focus on addressing health disparities, it ensures all elements of a patient's social and economic conditions are accounted for when managing health.

Why I Picked Healthify:

Healthify was an easy choice for this list because of its targeted approach to SDOH. While other platforms may provide broad population health management solutions, Healthify is unique in its dedication to tracking and addressing SDOH. This makes it the best tool for effectively understanding and responding to the myriad social and economic factors that can impact health outcomes.

Standout features and integrations:

One of the key features of Healthify is its comprehensive SDOH data collection and analysis capabilities. With this tool, healthcare organizations can better understand the non-clinical factors affecting their patients' health and tailor interventions accordingly. It offers integration with a range of EHR systems, enabling seamless information flow and ensuring all health determinants are considered during the care process.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Allows for targeted interventions based on social and economic conditions.
  • Integrates with multiple EHR systems for comprehensive patient data.
  • Concentrates specifically on social determinants of health.

Cons:

  • Could be seen as too specialized for some healthcare organizations.
  • Its specific focus on SDOH may not suit providers looking for broader functionality.
  • Pricing information is not readily available.

Best for integrated EHR, practice management, and patient engagement

  • Pricing upon request

athenaOne offers a comprehensive solution that combines EHR, practice management, and patient engagement functions within a unified platform. This integrated approach fosters a streamlined workflow, resulting in improved patient care and satisfaction.

Why I Picked athenaOne:

I selected athenaOne for its comprehensive and integrated approach to healthcare management. Few tools on the market offer a blend of EHR, practice management, and patient engagement functionalities as seamlessly as athenaOne. This unique combination makes it an ideal choice for healthcare organizations seeking a unified solution for improving patient care and engagement.

Standout features and integrations:

athenaOne impresses with its wide array of features, including automated medical billing, customizable reporting, and an intuitive patient portal. Its EHR functionality offers thorough documentation capabilities, while the practice management module supports efficient scheduling and billing processes. Regarding integrations, athenaOne connects with a range of healthcare technology partners, including labs, pharmacies, and other medical service providers.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations with healthcare technology partners.
  • Rich feature set including automated medical billing and customizable reporting.
  • Comprehensive platform with integrated EHR, practice management, and patient engagement.

Cons:

  • Some users have reported the need for more customization options.
  • May have a steeper learning curve due to its extensive functionality.
  • No published pricing information.

Best for connecting healthcare teams across different settings

  • Pricing upon request

Olio is a digital health platform designed to bridge the gap between healthcare teams operating in different care settings. It supports the seamless exchange of patient information and communication between providers, thereby aiming to foster better collaboration and continuity of care.

Why I Picked Olio:

I chose Olio due to its focus on enhancing connectivity among healthcare teams. The capability of this tool to connect different healthcare settings stood out in my evaluation. It simplifies case management efforts with post-acute providers and operationalizes value-based care. Given the importance of information exchange and teamwork in patient care, I determined that Olio is ideally suited for enhancing connections and communication among healthcare teams in diverse settings.

Standout features and integrations:

Olio offers powerful features to facilitate communication and coordination among healthcare teams. It provides tools for real-time updates, tracking patient progress, and secure messaging. The platform integrates well with electronic health records (EHRs) and other healthcare systems, allowing for the efficient sharing of patient data across different care settings.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers real-time updates and tracking of patient progress.
  • Integrates with EHRs and other healthcare systems.
  • Fosters seamless communication between healthcare teams.

Cons:

  • Smaller healthcare teams may not fully utilize its extensive collaboration capabilities.
  • May require a learning curve for teams not familiar with digital collaboration tools.
  • Lack of transparency in pricing.

Best for predictive insights in population health

  • Pricing upon request.

Clarify Health specializes in creating rich, predictive insights for population health management. It's a powerhouse tool, offering users the ability to anticipate health trends and adjust their strategies accordingly in real-time.

Why I Picked Clarify Health:

I was drawn to Clarify Health because of its unique capacity to offer predictive insights in the realm of population health. This level of foresight is rare and incredibly valuable, allowing healthcare professionals to stay one step ahead of emerging trends and patterns. Given this strength, Clarify Health is undoubtedly the best for those needing predictive insights in managing population health.

Standout features and integrations:

Clarify Health shines with its predictive modeling features, facilitating the early identification of potential health risks and care needs. It also has a comprehensive data platform, allowing for detailed patient profiling. As for integrations, Clarify Health works seamlessly with major EHR systems, fostering a smooth exchange of data for enhanced insights.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Smooth integration with major EHR systems.
  • Detailed patient profiling capability.
  • Predictive modeling for early identification of health risks.

Cons:

  • The predictive insights may be too detailed for smaller practices.
  • Requires training to fully utilize its advanced features.
  • No published pricing information.

Best for customizable health benefit plans

  • From $10/user/month.

League is a health-focused platform that empowers organizations to engage their teams with personalized health benefits. By reimagining the way health benefits are designed and delivered, League provides a novel approach to employee healthcare and wellness that aligns with their specific needs.

Why I Picked League:

I chose League because of its unique positioning in the intersection of health benefits and employee wellness. Unlike traditional platforms, it allows employers to offer customized health benefits that truly cater to the diverse health and wellness needs of their employees. This adaptability is why I view League as best for customizable health benefit plans.

Standout features and integrations:

League stands out for its comprehensive health benefits system, incorporating insurance plans, reimbursement, flexible spending accounts, and wellness programs. The platform also features a digital wallet for streamlined benefits management. With integrations into HRIS systems and popular payroll platforms, League ensures the smooth administration of benefits and contributes to the efficient operation of HR departments.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Comes with a digital wallet for easy benefits management.
  • Integrates with existing HRIS and payroll systems.
  • Offers a wide range of customizable health benefits.

Cons:

  • Its breadth of options may be overwhelming for smaller organizations.
  • The platform may require a learning curve for less tech-savvy users.
  • Pricing is not transparent; it's provided upon request.

Best for coordinating care across a multitude of providers

  • Pricing upon request

Allscripts CareDirector is a comprehensive care coordination solution designed to help healthcare providers streamline the delivery of services. It supports the seamless management of care processes, enabling providers to coordinate effectively and deliver improved patient outcomes.

Why I Picked Allscripts CareDirector:

I picked Allscripts CareDirector for its dedicated focus on facilitating care coordination across a multitude of providers. Its robust suite of tools for care coordination, combined with its widespread adoption in the industry, make it a standout among other platforms. Given its capacity for handling complex care coordination, I judged it as the best choice for organizations needing to manage care processes across multiple providers.

Standout features and integrations:

Allscripts CareDirector offers an array of features, including care plan management, scheduling, billing, and reporting. These tools collectively help in the delivery of effective, patient-centric care. Integration-wise, it connects well with Allscripts' suite of healthcare solutions, along with other EHR systems, providing a holistic view of patient information.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent integration capabilities with Allscripts' suite and other EHR systems.
  • Comprehensive features including care plan management, scheduling, and billing.
  • Strong focus on care coordination across multiple providers.

Cons:

  • Might be excessive for healthcare providers with simpler care coordination needs.
  • Complex feature set may require substantial training for users.
  • No upfront pricing information available.

Best for advanced data analytics and patient care management

  • Pricing upon request

HealthEC is a robust population health management platform specializing in the application of advanced data analytic tools for superior patient care. This tool goes the extra mile by transforming comprehensive patient data into actionable insights for effective care coordination.

Why I Picked HealthEC:

I selected HealthEC for its exceptional ability to leverage data analytics in the management and delivery of patient care. The platform’s sophisticated analytics engine sets it apart, providing a depth of understanding that can truly elevate the quality of care. This proficiency in handling and interpreting data makes HealthEC the best choice for advanced data analytics and patient care management.

Standout features and integrations:

HealthEC offers an impressive suite of features, notably its proprietary algorithm for risk stratification, which aids in predicting and planning patient care. The platform's care management capabilities are also top-tier, providing robust tools to track and coordinate patient care effectively. HealthEC integrates well with various EHR systems and clinical data sources, ensuring a holistic view of patient health.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with various EHR systems and health data sources.
  • Offers robust tools for effective care management.
  • Provides advanced data analytics for insightful patient care.

Cons:

  • The platform's sophisticated functionality might be more than what smaller practices require.
  • The advanced features may require a learning curve for some users.
  • Pricing details are not publicly available.

Best for comprehensive health care advisory services

  • Pricing upon request

Optum Health Care Advisor provides a full suite of health care advisory services designed to benchmark patients, practitioners, and organizations towards better health outcomes. With its multi-faceted approach to health care consultation, it stands as a powerful tool in managing and improving overall health outcomes.

Why I Picked Optum Health Care Advisor:

I chose Optum Health Care Advisor because of its comprehensive approach to health care advisory services. The platform stood out to me because it goes beyond basic consultation to offer a multi-dimensional approach, targeting different areas such as disease prevention, wellness, and chronic disease management. This made it the obvious choice for the best comprehensive health care advisory service.

Standout features and integrations:

Optum Health Care Advisor offers a broad spectrum of features, including personalized health plans, one-on-one health coaching, and chronic condition support. The tool’s integrative approach to health management makes it valuable for various stakeholders in the health ecosystem. As a part of the larger Optum ecosystem, Health Care Advisor seamlessly integrates with other Optum services, delivering a well-rounded healthcare advisory service.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrated with the larger Optum ecosystem for a well-rounded service.
  • Offers personalized health plans and one-on-one health coaching.
  • Provides comprehensive health care advisory services.

Cons:

  • Some users may find it complicated to navigate due to its broad range of services.
  • Might not be suitable for smaller organizations due to its comprehensive nature.
  • Pricing information is not publicly available.

Best for managing chronic diseases with a holistic approach

  • Pricing upon request

HealtheCare is a digital health platform specifically tailored for managing chronic diseases with a comprehensive approach. It provides tools for care planning, care coordination, patient engagement, and health analytics, aiming to simplify the process of chronic disease management.

Why I Picked HealtheCare:

I chose HealtheCare for its focus on a holistic approach to managing chronic diseases. It stood out during my selection process due to its comprehensive suite of tools that cover different aspects of chronic disease management. With its emphasis on care coordination and patient engagement, HealtheCare provides a holistic solution, making it my top pick for chronic disease management.

Standout features and integrations:

HealtheCare provides robust care planning and care coordination features that can help streamline the process of chronic disease management. It also offers patient engagement tools to keep patients informed and involved in their care. Its system integrates smoothly with electronic health records (EHRs), electronic medical records (EMR), patient portals, and health information exchanges, enabling efficient data exchange.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Smooth integration with EHRs and other health platforms.
  • Strong focus on care coordination and patient engagement.
  • Provides comprehensive tools for managing chronic diseases.

Cons:

  • Customization options could be limited.
  • The platform may be more complex than needed for providers not focusing on chronic disease management.
  • Pricing is not transparent and requires a request.

Other Population Health Management Software

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

  1. HealtheIntent

    For scalable cloud-based platform with real-time data

  2. Workpartners Population Health

    For workplace health and productivity assessment

  3. Arcadia.io

    Good for large-scale health systems seeking advanced analytics

  4. PatientIQ

    Good for providers aiming for data-driven clinical decisions

  5. ixlayer

    Good for genomic data management and precision health

  6. HealthCall

    Good for customizing patient-centered care plans

  7. Healthy Planet

    Good for integrating population health into existing workflows

  8. Accolade

    Good for personalized healthcare and benefits solutions

  9. CareMessage

    Good for underserved populations requiring health literacy support

  10. Intelichart

    Good for patient engagement and communication

  11. Oracle Enterprise Healthcare Analytics

    Good for leveraging data to improve healthcare decisions

  12. Cerner Population Health Management

    Good for managing high-risk patients with integrated data

  13. i2i Population Health

    Good for community healthcare data management

  14. i2iTracks

    Good for care coordination and tracking patient outcomes

  15. Allscripts Population Health Analytics

    Good for healthcare organizations requiring in-depth data analysis

  16. Harmony LTSS Software

    Good for long-term care planning and coordination

  17. MicroMD PM

    Good for streamlining practice management tasks

Selection Criteria For Population Health Management Software

After pouring through countless Population Health Management (PHM) tools, I have tried and tested a multitude of them, eventually identifying the essential criteria to look for in this software. In my experience, there are some features and functionalities that are absolutely vital for the effective usage and impact of PHM software.

Core Functionality: The primary functions that a PHM tool should facilitate are:

  • Risk Stratification: A good PHM tool should be able to identify high-risk patients based on demographics, past medical history, and socioeconomic factors.
  • Care Coordination: It should enable communication between different healthcare providers, care managers, and the patient to ensure that everyone is on the same page about a patient's health status and care plan.
  • Patient Engagement: PHM software should facilitate patient interaction with their own health data and provide educational resources to encourage healthy behaviors.

Key Features: In terms of features, the focus should be on:

  • Data Integration: The tool should be able to aggregate data from various sources like EHRs, health insurance databases, and even social determinants of health.
  • Predictive Analytics: Using machine learning or artificial intelligence to predict trends and outcomes can provide valuable insights for population health management.
  • Reporting and Visualization: PHM software should provide intuitive and comprehensive reports, interactive dashboards, and visualizations to interpret and understand the aggregated data.

Usability: When evaluating PHM software, usability plays a critical role:

  • User Interface: For PHM tools, data visualization is key. Interfaces should provide easy-to-understand charts, graphs, and other visual representations of complex health data.
  • Onboarding and Support: Considering the complexity of PHM software, strong customer support, and an efficient onboarding process are essential. This can include comprehensive training resources, prompt customer service, and accessible technical support.
  • Role-based Access: A PHM tool should provide role-based access to ensure that sensitive health data is only accessible to the appropriate individuals. Configuring this access should be straightforward and intuitive.

Using these criteria, I have discerned the most effective and impactful PHM tools among the many options available.

Other Health Management Software

Most Asked Questions Regarding Population Health Management Software (FAQs)

What are the benefits of using Population Health Management software?

Utilizing Population Health Management (PHM) tools comes with a range of advantages. These benefits include:

  • Improved Patient Outcomes: PHM software allows healthcare providers to better manage and coordinate care for their patients, leading to improved health outcomes.
  • Enhanced Efficiency: By aggregating and analyzing data from various sources, PHM tools enable healthcare providers to identify high-risk individuals and prioritize their care.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: The predictive analytics and reporting capabilities of PHM software allow providers to make informed, data-driven decisions.
  • Cost Savings: Efficient management of population health can lead to significant cost savings by reducing hospital readmissions, unnecessary tests, and emergency department visits.
  • Increased Patient Engagement: Many PHM tools provide resources for patient education and encourage patients to take an active role in their own health.

How much do Population Health Management tools cost?

The cost of PHM tools can vary widely based on a number of factors, including the size of the healthcare organization, the complexity of the software, and the specific features and functionalities it offers.

What are the typical pricing models for PHM tools?

Most PHM tools use a subscription-based pricing model, which is often billed annually. The pricing may be per user or per patient, or it may be based on the overall size of the population being managed. Some vendors also offer tiered pricing plans with different levels of functionality.

What is the typical range of pricing for PHM tools?

The price of PHM software typically starts from around $1000 per month for smaller healthcare organizations and can go up to tens of thousands of dollars per month for large healthcare systems.

What are the cheapest and most expensive PHM software?

The pricing for PHM tools can range quite significantly. On the lower cost end of the scale, tools like HealthEC offer plans starting at around $1000 per month, while more premium options such as eClinicalWorks can cost upwards of $25,000 per month.

Are there any free PHM tools available?

While there may be some free or open-source PHM tools available, they often lack the comprehensive features, data security, and customer support offered by paid tools. Therefore, they are not typically recommended for professional healthcare organizations.

Summary

In conclusion, selecting the right Population Health Management software is pivotal for healthcare organizations aiming to improve patient outcomes, enhance efficiency, and facilitate data-driven decision-making.

Key Takeaway 1: Assess Your Needs: Prioritize your organization's unique requirements, such as the size of the patient population, the specific health issues prevalent in the population, and the technological capability of your healthcare team.

Key Takeaway 2: Consider Core Functionality and Key Features: Look for essential functionalities like data integration and analytics, care management, patient engagement tools, and reporting capabilities. Assess key features that align with your healthcare delivery model and can fulfill your population health management goals.

Key Takeaway 3: Evaluate Usability and Support: Usability factors like interface design, ease of onboarding, and user experience can greatly influence the effectiveness of the software. Additionally, reliable customer support is essential for addressing any technical issues and ensuring smooth operation.

What Do You Think?

While we've tried to create a comprehensive list of the best Population Health Management software, we acknowledge that there might be other great tools out there we might have missed.

If you've had a positive experience with a tool that hasn't been mentioned in this list, we would love to hear about it. Please feel free to share your recommendations and experiences in the comments below. Your insights could help others make more informed decisions.

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.