Quick Overview
- 1#1: DrFirst Rcopia - Secure electronic prescribing platform with EPCS compliance, real-time formulary checks, and prior authorization support.
- 2#2: DoseSpot - API-based e-prescribing solution for easy integration into EHRs and telehealth apps with full EPCS capabilities.
- 3#3: Epic Systems - Enterprise EHR with advanced e-prescribing features including controlled substances and medication decision support.
- 4#4: Oracle Cerner - Comprehensive health IT platform offering integrated electronic prescribing for hospitals and ambulatory care.
- 5#5: athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and revenue cycle management with seamless e-prescribing and patient communication tools.
- 6#6: eClinicalWorks - All-in-one EHR system featuring e-prescribing with allergy checks and electronic prior authorizations.
- 7#7: Veradigm - Healthcare data and technology platform with e-prescribing integrated into ambulatory EHR solutions.
- 8#8: NextGen Healthcare - Specialty-focused EHR providing EPCS-compliant e-prescribing and interoperability features.
- 9#9: Practice Fusion - Free web-based EHR with built-in e-prescribing for small practices and solo providers.
- 10#10: Kareo - Practice management and EHR software including electronic prescribing and billing integration.
We evaluated these tools using key metrics: EPCS compliance, integration capabilities with EHRs and telehealth, decision support features, and overall value, ensuring a balanced assessment that meets the needs of varied healthcare settings.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key features, integration capabilities, and user experience of leading e-prescription software tools—including DrFirst Rcopia, DoseSpot, Epic Systems, Oracle Cerner, and athenahealth—to help healthcare professionals and organizations evaluate options for streamlining prescription processes. Whether for small clinics or large systems, understanding these tools' strengths can clarify which best fits needs like accuracy, interoperability, and ease of use.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DrFirst Rcopia Secure electronic prescribing platform with EPCS compliance, real-time formulary checks, and prior authorization support. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | DoseSpot API-based e-prescribing solution for easy integration into EHRs and telehealth apps with full EPCS capabilities. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Epic Systems Enterprise EHR with advanced e-prescribing features including controlled substances and medication decision support. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Oracle Cerner Comprehensive health IT platform offering integrated electronic prescribing for hospitals and ambulatory care. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and revenue cycle management with seamless e-prescribing and patient communication tools. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | eClinicalWorks All-in-one EHR system featuring e-prescribing with allergy checks and electronic prior authorizations. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Veradigm Healthcare data and technology platform with e-prescribing integrated into ambulatory EHR solutions. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | NextGen Healthcare Specialty-focused EHR providing EPCS-compliant e-prescribing and interoperability features. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | Practice Fusion Free web-based EHR with built-in e-prescribing for small practices and solo providers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Kareo Practice management and EHR software including electronic prescribing and billing integration. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.2/10 |
Secure electronic prescribing platform with EPCS compliance, real-time formulary checks, and prior authorization support.
API-based e-prescribing solution for easy integration into EHRs and telehealth apps with full EPCS capabilities.
Enterprise EHR with advanced e-prescribing features including controlled substances and medication decision support.
Comprehensive health IT platform offering integrated electronic prescribing for hospitals and ambulatory care.
Cloud-based EHR and revenue cycle management with seamless e-prescribing and patient communication tools.
All-in-one EHR system featuring e-prescribing with allergy checks and electronic prior authorizations.
Healthcare data and technology platform with e-prescribing integrated into ambulatory EHR solutions.
Specialty-focused EHR providing EPCS-compliant e-prescribing and interoperability features.
Free web-based EHR with built-in e-prescribing for small practices and solo providers.
Practice management and EHR software including electronic prescribing and billing integration.
DrFirst Rcopia
specializedSecure electronic prescribing platform with EPCS compliance, real-time formulary checks, and prior authorization support.
Nationwide medication history aggregation (Rcopia MedHx) pulling from pharmacies, PBMs, and health information exchanges for complete patient profiles.
DrFirst Rcopia is a leading electronic prescribing (eRx) platform that allows healthcare providers to transmit prescriptions digitally to pharmacies with real-time checks for drug interactions, allergies, and formulary status. It integrates deeply with over 200 EHR/EMR systems and supports electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS) via DEA-compliant workflows. Rcopia also provides comprehensive medication history through its nationwide network, enhancing patient safety and reducing errors.
Pros
- Seamless integration with major EHRs and pharmacies via Surescripts network
- Advanced safety features including real-time alerts and full MedHx access
- Proven reliability with millions of prescriptions processed daily
Cons
- Pricing can be higher for small practices
- Initial setup requires IT coordination for integrations
- Some advanced features have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Large practices, hospitals, and providers needing robust, compliant e-prescribing with extensive integrations and safety checks.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically $150-$400 per provider/month depending on volume and features; custom quotes available.
DoseSpot
specializedAPI-based e-prescribing solution for easy integration into EHRs and telehealth apps with full EPCS capabilities.
Comprehensive EPCS compliance enabling secure electronic prescribing of Schedule II-V controlled substances
DoseSpot is a robust e-prescribing platform designed for seamless integration with EHR/EMR systems, enabling providers to send electronic prescriptions directly to pharmacies. It excels in handling controlled substances (Schedules II-V) with full compliance to DEA's EPCS requirements, including two-factor authentication. Key features include real-time formulary checks, patient eligibility verification, and error-reducing tools, making it a reliable choice for high-volume prescribing practices.
Pros
- Seamless API integrations with major EHRs like Epic and Cerner
- Full EPCS support for controlled substances with high security standards
- Real-time checks for formularies, coverage, and drug interactions
Cons
- Primarily developer-focused API requires technical setup
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for small practices
- Limited standalone functionality without EHR integration
Best For
Healthcare providers and organizations with integrated EHR systems needing compliant, high-volume e-prescribing for controlled substances.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on prescription volume and integrations; typically starts at $0.25-$0.50 per prescription with annual minimums.
Epic Systems
enterpriseEnterprise EHR with advanced e-prescribing features including controlled substances and medication decision support.
Seamless bidirectional integration with Surescripts for real-time prescription benefits, eligibility, and history checks
Epic Systems offers a robust electronic health record (EHR) platform with advanced e-prescribing capabilities through its EpicCare and Willow modules, enabling secure electronic transmission of prescriptions to pharmacies via Surescripts. It includes real-time drug interaction checks, formulary verification, and support for electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS). The system integrates seamlessly with patient records, lab results, and care coordination tools for streamlined clinical workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration with comprehensive EHR for holistic patient data access during prescribing
- Advanced clinical decision support with allergy, interaction, and duplicate therapy alerts
- Strong compliance features including EPCS and PDMP integration
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex customization requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Less intuitive interface compared to standalone e-prescribing tools
Best For
Large hospitals and health systems seeking enterprise-grade, fully integrated e-prescribing within a complete EHR ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with implementation costs often exceeding $1 million plus annual subscriptions based on user volume and modules.
Oracle Cerner
enterpriseComprehensive health IT platform offering integrated electronic prescribing for hospitals and ambulatory care.
Integrated electronic prior authorization that automates approvals and status checks directly in the prescribing workflow
Oracle Cerner, accessible via cerner.com, is a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) platform with robust e-prescription capabilities integrated into its Millennium and PowerChart systems. It enables providers to send electronic prescriptions securely to pharmacies, perform real-time formulary checks, patient eligibility verification, and drug-drug interaction alerts. The solution supports controlled substance e-prescribing (EPCS), electronic prior authorizations, and seamless integration with pharmacy networks like Surescripts for efficient medication management.
Pros
- Advanced clinical decision support with real-time alerts and formulary integration
- Full compliance with EPCS, Surescripts, and HIPAA standards
- Seamless scalability for large health systems with deep EHR integration
Cons
- Complex interface with a steep learning curve for new users
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process
- Overkill and expensive for small practices or solo providers
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and multi-site organizations needing enterprise-grade e-prescription fully integrated with EHR workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing with upfront implementation fees often exceeding $1M+ and ongoing per-user subscriptions starting at $500+/month, quoted based on scale.
athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and revenue cycle management with seamless e-prescribing and patient communication tools.
Real-time payer connectivity for instant prescription benefit verification and prior authorization support
athenahealth is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR platform that includes robust e-prescribing capabilities through its athenaOne suite. It allows providers to electronically transmit prescriptions, perform real-time drug interaction and allergy checks, verify patient eligibility and formulary coverage, and support controlled substance e-prescribing (EPCS). Designed for seamless integration with practice management and billing, it helps streamline workflows while ensuring regulatory compliance and patient safety.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full EHR, scheduling, and billing for efficient workflows
- Advanced safety features including real-time interaction alerts, formulary checks, and EPCS support
- Cloud-based accessibility with mobile app and strong interoperability via Surescripts
Cons
- High subscription costs that may strain smaller practices
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive interface
- Limited customization options compared to modular eRx-only tools
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices needing an integrated EHR with reliable, enterprise-grade e-prescribing.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $300-$500 per provider per month, including EHR and eRx features; scales with practice size and revenue.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseAll-in-one EHR system featuring e-prescribing with allergy checks and electronic prior authorizations.
Integrated EPCS with biometric e-signature for secure controlled substance prescribing directly within the EHR
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive electronic health records (EHR) platform with robust integrated e-prescribing capabilities, allowing providers to electronically transmit prescriptions to pharmacies, check formularies, and verify drug interactions and allergies in real-time. It supports EPCS compliance for controlled substances, PDMP integration, and seamless access to patient history within the EHR workflow. This solution is designed for practices seeking an all-in-one system to streamline prescribing while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Pros
- Seamless EHR integration for contextual prescribing with full patient history
- EPCS compliance and PDMP access for controlled substances
- Real-time formulary, allergy, and interaction checks
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Reported issues with customer support and system reliability
- High implementation and ongoing costs for smaller practices
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices or multi-specialty groups needing integrated EHR with advanced e-prescribing.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $400-$700 per provider/month for EHR suite including eRx, with additional setup fees.
Veradigm
enterpriseHealthcare data and technology platform with e-prescribing integrated into ambulatory EHR solutions.
Advanced e-prior authorization workflow with real-time payer responses via the Veradigm Network
Veradigm offers e-prescribing solutions integrated into its comprehensive EHR and practice management platforms, allowing healthcare providers to send secure electronic prescriptions directly to pharmacies via the Surescripts network. Key functionalities include real-time eligibility verification, formulary checks, drug interaction alerts, and support for controlled substances e-prescribing (EPCS). It emphasizes interoperability, connecting with a wide range of pharmacies, PBMs, and health plans for efficient prior authorizations and cost transparency.
Pros
- Strong Surescripts integration for broad pharmacy coverage and real-time benefits
- Comprehensive safety features including allergy and interaction checks
- Support for e-prior authorizations and EPCS compliance
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern standalone eRx tools
- Pricing tied to full EHR suite, limiting flexibility for eRx-only users
- Occasional performance issues reported in integrated workflows
Best For
Mid-sized practices and hospitals already invested in Veradigm's EHR ecosystem seeking robust, network-integrated e-prescribing.
Pricing
Bundled with EHR subscriptions; typically $400-$700 per provider per month depending on practice size and modules.
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseSpecialty-focused EHR providing EPCS-compliant e-prescribing and interoperability features.
Seamless EPCS with integrated biometric sign-off for controlled substances directly in the EHR workflow.
NextGen Healthcare offers a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) platform with integrated e-prescribing capabilities, allowing providers to send secure electronic prescriptions directly from patient charts. It supports real-time eligibility verification, formulary checks, drug interaction alerts, and electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS) via Surescripts network. Designed primarily for ambulatory care, the solution streamlines workflows by embedding eRx within broader practice management tools.
Pros
- Deep integration with EHR for contextual prescribing
- Robust EPCS support with two-factor authentication
- Advanced formulary and prior authorization tools
Cons
- Complex interface with steep learning curve
- High implementation and customization costs
- Limited flexibility for small practices
Best For
Mid-to-large ambulatory practices needing scalable e-prescribing integrated into a full EHR suite.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription model with custom quotes; typically $450-$700 per provider/month plus one-time implementation fees of $10K+.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree web-based EHR with built-in e-prescribing for small practices and solo providers.
100% free access to certified e-prescribing and full EHR without mandatory fees, making it uniquely accessible for budget-conscious providers
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) platform that offers integrated e-prescribing capabilities, enabling healthcare providers to electronically send prescriptions, including controlled substances via EPCS, directly to pharmacies. It features real-time formulary checks, drug interaction alerts, and seamless integration with patient charts for efficient workflows. Designed primarily for small to mid-sized practices, it supports both ambulatory and specialty care with a focus on usability and compliance with meaningful use standards.
Pros
- Completely free core EHR and e-prescribing with no subscription fees
- Intuitive interface with quick prescription generation and pharmacy integration
- EPCS support for controlled substances and robust safety checks like allergies and interactions
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and reporting compared to premium competitors
- Customer support primarily via email/tickets with slower response times
- Occasional performance issues and dependency on internet connectivity
Best For
Ideal for small independent practices or solo providers seeking a no-cost, user-friendly e-prescribing solution integrated with basic EHR functionality.
Pricing
Free for all core features including e-prescribing; optional paid services for advanced charting or implementation support starting at $149/month.
Kareo
enterprisePractice management and EHR software including electronic prescribing and billing integration.
Built-in EPCS certification with biometric authentication for compliant controlled substance prescribing
Kareo is a cloud-based medical practice management platform with integrated e-prescribing capabilities, allowing providers to send electronic prescriptions directly to pharmacies from within the EHR. It supports features like drug interaction checks, formulary lookups, and Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances (EPCS) for secure handling of narcotics. Designed for small to mid-sized practices, it streamlines prescribing workflows while ensuring HIPAA compliance and reducing errors compared to paper prescriptions.
Pros
- Seamless integration with EHR and billing for efficient workflows
- Full EPCS support for controlled substances with two-factor authentication
- Real-time alerts for drug interactions, allergies, and formulary status
Cons
- Learning curve for users new to integrated platforms
- Pricing scales per provider, which can be costly for larger groups
- Occasional reports of slower pharmacy transmission times
Best For
Small to medium-sized independent medical practices seeking an all-in-one platform with reliable e-prescribing.
Pricing
Starts at $110-$300 per provider/month (billed annually) for bundles including e-prescribing, EHR, and billing; custom quotes for enterprises.
Conclusion
The top e-prescription tools reviewed deliver distinct strengths, with DrFirst Rcopia leading as the best choice, boasting secure EPCS compliance, real-time formulary checks, and prior authorization support. DoseSpot stands out for effortless integration with EHRs and telehealth, while Epic Systems excels with enterprise-level medication decision support for complex needs. Each option adapts to varied practice sizes and workflows, ensuring there’s a solution for every professional.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your prescribing process—try DrFirst Rcopia, the top-ranked tool, to experience seamless, secure, and efficient care delivery.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison