The Best EHR for Solo Practices – Complete Guide 2024

Posted in Electronic Health Records

Executive Summary – Best EHR for Solo Practices

The healthcare industry is rapidly changing, making it increasingly difficult for solo practices to balance patient care and administrative processes. A HIPAA-compliant EHR system helps ensure that workflow processes are smooth and hindrance-free. Since so many options are available, choosing the best EHR for solo practices can be difficult. To save you time, we have compiled a list of affordable, user-friendly, and intuitive software to help you reach your specific goals and a few generalized basics.

What is a Solo Practice?

Solo practices typically include a small working staff with a limited patient base. Operations in a small-sized organization are easy to manage and open room for you to design, evolve, and develop the practice in whichever way you like.

With a smaller patient base, you can offer personalized treatments and build strong relationships with your patients and staff. Running a solo practice is not easy since all the responsibilities lie on your shoulders. In such a situation, reliable medical CMMS software is needed for efficient management or custom emr systems for small practices. 

Solo practitioners often need information from multiple sources to provide patient care. HL7, a standardized format for exchanging healthcare data, simplifies this process without the need for additional software. With HL7 integration, healthcare practitioners can access sensitive patient information safely.

What Are The Different Types of EHR Systems?

EHR software development has increased manifold as a result of the pandemic. The healthcare industry’s future seems directly linked to the role of EHRs, as they are an important part of clinical operations.

An Electronic Health Record (EHR) is an all-inclusive system that physicians can use to record their patient’s medical information. It is usually a computer system that stores files of a patient’s care report.  EHR systems offer significant benefits, but selecting the right one is challenging. This is because different types are made to meet specific requirements of healthcare setups, such as EHRs for behavioral healthcare. 

As you explore the following EHR options, remember that each has its own set of features and functions. Select the best EHR for private practice according to your needs. 

They can be broadly classified into two categories:

Cloud-Based EHR

Typically, an ASP or Application Service Provider supports a cloud-based EHR system. This support is accessed through an internet connection and has less upfront cost because the practice pays for software licenses in the form of subscriptions. 

These subscriptions cover the fee for software licenses, support charges, and central hardware located in a remote area. You only pay for the actual time you use the web services. Such EHRs appeal to practitioners who want to save on upfront costs and hardware requirements of on-premise servers.

Cloud-based EHRs offer more flexibility for expanding practices due to their dynamic resources. Compared to on-premise systems, cloud-based EHRs require less maintenance efforts, such as managing servers and backups. 

Additionally, they also address many HIPAA security concerns and provide ease in terms of capacity and storage. However, practices must ensure reliable internet access for all users to effectively utilize cloud-based EHRs.

Cloud-based EHRs generally need more communication capacity to effectively connect all practice locations, with every user having a secure internet connection to access the system. Moreover, if a practice decides to switch to a different EHR system, they may still need to pay the ongoing fee to maintain access to their patient data.

Server-Based EHR

A server-based EHR system requires software and data on the server present in the practice premises. When server-based EHR software is in your organization, you are responsible for physically protecting the hardware and performing backups on your own accord. Your IT department must predict how much storage you may need when your practice expands or grows. 

Updating a server-based EHR system is difficult compared to cloud-based options because it is more static and expensive. The initial cost of software installation and implementation, updates, maintenance, and licensing fees can be quite high, especially for solo practices with limited budgets. 

Additionally, maintaining patient confidentiality and protecting sensitive data are top priorities. Running an in-house EHR software puts you at risk. So, when selecting a server-based EHR system, make sure it complies with all applicable laws and regulations. You can get help from healthcare compliance consultants to achieve compliance with HIPAA and federal regulations.

With this type of EHR system, a practice requires investment in the IT department or service providers for conservation and security updates.

Why EHR is Essential for Solo Practices?

Storing and managing patient records electronically in EHR systems is much better compared to hard paper copies. They are secure and easily accessible to authorized users. Some of the key benefits include: 

• Efficiency: EHRs eliminate the need for manual data storage, reducing the risk of errors.
• Security: Patient data is stored and backed up online, reducing the risk of loss or destruction.
• Accessibility: EHRs are easily accessible by patients and healthcare providers from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Patient acquisition tracking: Identify effective marketing channels to attract new patients.
• Billing and accounting management: Streamline financial processes and improve revenue collection.
• Online appointment booking: Allow patients to schedule appointments conveniently online.

Latest Trends and Innovations in EMR Systems for Small Practices

The healthcare space of EHR/EMR systems is rapidly evolving, making it increasingly important to choose the best EMR for solo practice by staying updated with the latest trends. Here’s what’s trending in the world of EHR and EMR systems.

Integration with Telemedicine

As telemedicine grows, so does the need for integrated EHR systems. Hospitals and clinics need EHR for small private practice that seamlessly integrate with telemedicine platforms. This integration helps provide a comprehensive view of patient care and improves the efficiency of virtual consultations.

Advanced Analytics and Reporting

EHR systems now offer advanced analytics and reporting tools to help practices gain insights into operations and patient care. Implementing the best EHR private practice improves decision-making and patient outcomes while meeting customer expectations.

Customization and Usability

The need for customizable EHR systems is rising, and solo practitioners need solutions that fit their specific workflows. The best EMR for private practice often includes customizable templates and user-friendly interfaces to cater to diverse needs.

Cost-Effective Solutions

The private practice EMR cost is a significant factor when choosing the best EHR for small practices. Solutions that offer a balance between affordability and functionality are in high demand, especially when considering the cost of Epic EMR for private practice.

Improved Interoperability

Secure transmission of sensitive patient data among different systems is crucial. Small practices are now looking for EHRs with enhanced interoperability that integrates well with other healthcare systems and platforms to make this happen.

EHRs for Solo and Individual Practices

How Do I Choose the Best EHR for Solo Practice?

The benefits of a well-performing EHR system may be clear; however, executing and adjusting it can be challenging for everybody working in your practice. Ensuring that all team members understand the implementation goals and long-term strategy is necessary; therefore, thoroughly evaluate all options before deciding.

Ease of use

The most essential facet of an EMR system is its simplicity. A system that is not automatic can curtail your workforce since it can hinder your staff’s routine tasks. When selecting an EHR system, avoid options that would drive your patients away or increase your workload, as you’ll be using it daily. Many vendors offer free trials, so use this opportunity to assess whether the system will be valuable to your practice.

Cost

The costs of EHR software vary depending on the vendor you choose, the features you add, and the number of providers in your practice. Before asking for an estimate, find out the cost of activation, initial licensing, and charges for each additional element.

The price for smaller practices is generally a monthly fee multiplied by the number of providers operating the system. It can vary from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, which can be determined by consulting with the vendor.

Implementation and Training

The implementation process can take a variable amount of time, from a few weeks to a couple of months. Therefore, knowing your vendor’s plan for setting up and running your system is important. In addition, some vendors may offer training to make sure everyone in your firm is up to date with the new software. They may also provide support services for a limited time without an additional cost.

Customer Service

Vendor support is a crucial aspect of adopting a new EHR system since it is not an easy task. If the customer service is poor, it can lead to issues later on. Therefore, partner up with vendors who offer excellent customer service and are available whenever and wherever you need it.

Consideration of Data Security and Privacy

Whether implementing EHR on a larger scale or opting for an EHR for private practice, data safety is the first and foremost must-have feature. If you’re looking for the best EHR for solo practice, do not overlook this criteria. Greater levels of security complying with HIPAA and GDPR are also reflected in the pricing.

Private Practice Electronic Medical Records

Electronic medical records (EMRs) are software clinical professionals use to record patient medical care within private or public practices. They can be defined as digital copies of information collected in hospitals or clinics to be used for diagnosis and treatment.

Many EMR platforms for small practice are available for physicians to use in their solo setup; however, finding the right one can be a challenge. So, you need to know what makes an EMR effective.

A useful EMR software offers unique and innovative characteristics to help you automate your processes and improve the patient experience. It also simplifies your practice workflow administrative tasks, helps generate revenue, and enhances patient care. When you’re looking to become compliant with the new regulation, choose an EMR that digitizes your existing patient records.

EMRs are more valuable than paper records because they facilitate providers to track data periodically and help identify patients for screening and preventative visits. Some other benefits include improved care quality, facilitation of order entry, prescription writing, and furnishing of patient histories and test results.

Top EHR Systems for Solo Practitioners

When choosing the best EHR system, solo practitioners must consider options that offer scalability, customization, and ease of use. 

The top 5 EHR systems, including Epic, Praxis EMR, Athenahealth, DrChrono, and CureMD, are renowned for their comprehensive features. These systems provide secure, HIPAA-compliant solutions that enhance practice efficiency and patient care, making them ideal choices for solo practices.

3 Benefits of Using an EHR for Your Solo Practice

Best EHR for Solo Practices in Mental Health Space

When choosing the right EHR software for mental health practices, professionals have a long list of factors to consider, from the size of the practice and specialty type to relevant health legislation. Listed below are two of the best-suited EHR systems for mental health practices.

NextGen Healthcare

NextGen Healthcare is an EHR and practice administration solution that supports the following features:

• Treatment plans
• Initial examinations
• Appointment scheduling
• E-prescribing
• Request management

NextGen offers both cloud and on-premise deployment. Its smart documentation solution, NextPen, allows clinicians to capture patient information immediately into their EHR. This digital pen digitizes handwritten data with a small camera at its tip. Moreover, it can also collect data from various sources, such as graphs, drawings, notes, treatment plans, and patient questionnaires.

Kareo

Kareo is cloud-based medical equipment with EHR integration and practice management capabilities. Its features are in line with the requirements of mental health solo practices and is an example of integrated healthcare. Some features include initial examinations, e-prescribing, treatment plans, appointment scheduling, and request management.

Just like NextGen, Kareo is suitable for all mental health private practices. It offers access to 50 customizable templates for mental health, behavioral health, and psychiatry.

Kareo’s Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances (ECPS) capacity automatically inspects and alerts prescribers about any harm caused by prescribed medications.

Users find Kareo easy to operate, and its customer support team is quickly responsive. The tool can be learned easily and logged in from any device, including mobile phones and desktop computers.

Best EMR for Psychiatrists in Solo Practices

When it comes to solo psychiatric practices, having the right EMR is crucial.

PrognoCIS: Psychiatry EMR Software

PrognoCIS Psychiatry EMR Software is an excellent choice for psychiatrists. This user-friendly, fully customizable EMR is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of this practice, offering features that enhance communication, streamline documentation, and optimize billing processes. PrognoCIS is a HIPAA-compliant, cloud-based software that integrates telemedicine capabilities, making it ideal for solo practitioners looking to improve patient care and practice efficiency.

PrognoCIS is an easy-to-use software that is the top-rated EMR for psychiatry practices. It is a fully customizable and tailored system that several psychiatrists and psychiatry practices use.

PrognoCIS is an award-winning and MACRA-certified software. Designed for unique workflows of solo practices, it has templates and features that streamline communication, documentation, care delivery, and billing processes and simplify other executive and financial tasks.

Its implementation tools for successful EHR shifts are time-proven. These tools help you migrate data from your existing EMR system to PrognoCIS EHR for free. It also has integrated practice management and medical billing software that increases efficiency and saves time.

PrognoCIS is a cloud-based software with expanded reach and care accessibility for patients across a wide range of distances through telemedicine. Its consultation is available with a built-in app for both in-house and office-based needs.

Best EMR for Physicians in Solo Practices

Practice Fusion: Physician Practice EMR

Practice Fusion is one of the best EHR for small practices and is ranked first for small and individual practices. On average, this small practice EMR costs $31,710 per year, which is more than what practices expect.

Its fast e-prescribing system helps patients get prescriptions and instantly send orders electronically to any e-prescribing facilitated pharmacy in the country.

With its practice management tools, you can save time on executive tasks, concentrate on engaging patients, and grow your practice using its online patient portal.

Practice Fusion allows you to set automatic reminders for appointments and get paid quickly with smart billing choices. Its dedicated specialists provide free customized implementation support.

It offers highly personalized features and can accommodate a high number of users and patients. This flexibility allows practices to choose only the specific EMR features they need, ensuring a tailored solution according to the requirements.

Best EMR for Small Therapy Practice

CentralReach

CentralReach is a major EHR and EMR solution for therapists and educators. It is focused on applied behavioral analysis, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and PK-12 special education.

CentralReach is one the best emr for solo practice EMR, and it can organize and optimize all your processes, including intake, billing, cash flow, scheduling, and access to documentation.

It offers a full-fledged set of integrated solutions with robust functionality suitable for any stabilized behavioral health practice searching for an inclusive solution. You can simplify back-office practice, minimize inefficiencies, and boost client experience.

CentralReach enables patients to look for a physician and find their match using many standards, including zip code, language, distance from the patient, credentials, and availability. Moreover, broad functionality offers a protected online way to connect to clients.

Patients can access their planned appointments in ClientReach’s portal but cannot create or schedule new meetings.

Free EMR for Small Practices

Hippocrate

Hippocrate offers the best technology to its users by understanding its clients’ needs. Doctors in more than 133 countries have subscribed to Hippocrate because it provides the best medical care solutions. From EHR and telemedicine engagement to massive data and medical marketing, Hippocrate does it all.

Hippocrate Free EMR Software offers solo medical practice features listed below:

•  Online scheduling
• High security and Encryption
• Medical Marketing
• E-Prescription patient portal

It protects your sensitive data with exceptional encryption, making sure that all your cloud-based users will operate with utmost confidentiality under your control.

Hippocrate EMR software is designed in affiliation with medical professionals to provide all essential functionalities. It is a big and highly scalable health data platform. With its analytics tools, Hippocrate discovers user patterns and enhances patient treatments.

Small practices aiming to improve patient care and achieve efficient workflow within limited budgets may prefer Hippocrate Free EMR Software.

Optimize Workflow With Seamless Integration of EHR System With Folio3 Digital Health 

We hope that this piece of reading provided clarity regarding the best EHR system for small-scale/solo practices. If you are looking for a similar solution, Folio3 Digital Health is here to help. Our team of expert healthcare developers can integrate software with custom solutions to meet your needs. Folio3 Digital Health experts ensure that perfect, HIPAA-compliant solutions are delivered with the latest HL7 and FHIR interoperability standards.

Conclusion – Best EHR for Solo Practice

Earlier, the top digital health companies were developing mobile health apps so that users could effectively manage their fitness goals, medical conditions, or hospital visits. Now, they incorporate EHRs to provide physicians with their patients’ comprehensive health data.

This means technology is transforming the world. To evolve with digital growth, you must also incorporate certain ways to digitize the operations of your practice.

EHRs and EMRs support solo practices by digitizing patients’ medical data. The choice of selecting the best EHR for solo practice depends on your needs. Therefore, make sure you have key features and considerations in mind before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best EHR for Solo Practice

What are three EHR software systems commonly used by physician offices?

Epic, Meditech, and Cerner are the most commonly used EHR systems by physicians. Epic has been dominating the EHR market for hospitals and other health systems. Around 34% of hospital users are using Epic, and 24% of the remaining share is of Cerner. On the other hand, Meditech holds around 15% of the overall market share.

Which EHR software is best?

According to KLAS research, Epic is the best EHR software; it is currently installed at about 2,353 locations. Most organizations prefer Epic because it delivers a highly up-to-scratch experience for medium-size to large ambulatory enterprises in terms of direct contracting.

Is Epic good for small practices?

Although many surveys have revealed Epic to be the best EMR system due to its support system, its high pricing can make it impractical for small practices. This is because it requires them to buy all their hardware, which is costly.

Is Epic EMR for solo practice worth buying?

Epic’s self-hosted services cost $1,200 as a starting price, while its price for large hospitals and healthcare organizations is hefty.

Epic is not a small practice EMR software system because it is expensive; however, it is worth buying for its features and quality.

What is the cost of EMR for private practice?

The cost of EMR for private practice typically ranges from $200 to $500 per provider per month. Setup and training can initially add $1,000 to $5,000.

What are the maintenance costs for EHR systems?

EHR maintenance costs typically range from 15-20% of the initial implementation cost annually. These prices cover software updates, technical support, system upgrades, and data security measures. Smaller practices might spend around $1,200 per user per year, while larger practices can benefit from economies of scale, reducing costs to approximately $685 per user.

How can EHR systems improve patient engagement in a solo practice?

EHR for small practices can significantly improve the patient experience by:

• Enhancing communication
• Personalizing care
• Increasing patient access
• Building trust

By leveraging these capabilities, an EHR for a small practice can enhance patient outcomes. Solo practitioners can create a more patient-centric practice and improve overall satisfaction.

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