Quick Overview
- 1#1: athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines clinical workflows, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
- 2#2: Epic Systems - Leading enterprise EHR solution with integrated practice management for large-scale healthcare organizations and hospitals.
- 3#3: Oracle Health (Cerner) - Comprehensive EHR and practice management system offering advanced interoperability and revenue cycle tools for health systems.
- 4#4: eClinicalWorks - All-in-one EHR and practice management software with telehealth, patient portal, and robust billing features for ambulatory practices.
- 5#5: NextGen Healthcare - Integrated EHR and practice management platform designed for specialty practices with strong analytics and population health tools.
- 6#6: Kareo - Intelligent billing and practice management software with EHR integration focused on simplifying revenue cycle for independent practices.
- 7#7: AdvancedMD - Cloud-based practice management and EHR solution providing scheduling, billing, and compliance tools for small to mid-sized practices.
- 8#8: DrChrono - iPad-native EHR and practice management platform with mobile-first design for efficient charting, billing, and telehealth.
- 9#9: Veradigm - EHR and practice management suite formerly Allscripts, offering data-driven insights and interoperability for ambulatory care.
- 10#10: Practice Fusion - Free web-based EHR with practice management features including charting, e-prescribing, and basic scheduling for small practices.
Tools were rigorously evaluated based on key factors including integrated clinical and billing functionality, user experience, interoperability, and overall value, ensuring they deliver reliable performance and adaptability for healthcare practices of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Navigate leading EMR practice management software, featuring athenahealth, Epic Systems, Oracle Health (Cerner), eClinicalWorks, NextGen Healthcare, and more. This comparison table details key functionalities, integration capabilities, and user workflows to help practices identify tools aligned with their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines clinical workflows, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Epic Systems Leading enterprise EHR solution with integrated practice management for large-scale healthcare organizations and hospitals. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Oracle Health (Cerner) Comprehensive EHR and practice management system offering advanced interoperability and revenue cycle tools for health systems. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | eClinicalWorks All-in-one EHR and practice management software with telehealth, patient portal, and robust billing features for ambulatory practices. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | NextGen Healthcare Integrated EHR and practice management platform designed for specialty practices with strong analytics and population health tools. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Kareo Intelligent billing and practice management software with EHR integration focused on simplifying revenue cycle for independent practices. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | AdvancedMD Cloud-based practice management and EHR solution providing scheduling, billing, and compliance tools for small to mid-sized practices. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | DrChrono iPad-native EHR and practice management platform with mobile-first design for efficient charting, billing, and telehealth. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Veradigm EHR and practice management suite formerly Allscripts, offering data-driven insights and interoperability for ambulatory care. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | Practice Fusion Free web-based EHR with practice management features including charting, e-prescribing, and basic scheduling for small practices. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines clinical workflows, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
Leading enterprise EHR solution with integrated practice management for large-scale healthcare organizations and hospitals.
Comprehensive EHR and practice management system offering advanced interoperability and revenue cycle tools for health systems.
All-in-one EHR and practice management software with telehealth, patient portal, and robust billing features for ambulatory practices.
Integrated EHR and practice management platform designed for specialty practices with strong analytics and population health tools.
Intelligent billing and practice management software with EHR integration focused on simplifying revenue cycle for independent practices.
Cloud-based practice management and EHR solution providing scheduling, billing, and compliance tools for small to mid-sized practices.
iPad-native EHR and practice management platform with mobile-first design for efficient charting, billing, and telehealth.
EHR and practice management suite formerly Allscripts, offering data-driven insights and interoperability for ambulatory care.
Free web-based EHR with practice management features including charting, e-prescribing, and basic scheduling for small practices.
athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines clinical workflows, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
athenahealth Network: Proprietary dataset from millions of encounters providing real-time benchmarking, predictive analytics, and peer comparisons.
athenahealth is a comprehensive cloud-based EMR and practice management software suite that integrates electronic health records, revenue cycle management, scheduling, billing, and patient engagement tools to streamline healthcare operations. It leverages the athenahealth Network for real-time data benchmarking, interoperability via FHIR standards, and advanced analytics to optimize clinical and financial performance. Designed for ambulatory practices across specialties, it ensures HIPAA compliance, reduces administrative burdens, and supports value-based care models.
Pros
- Superior revenue cycle management with industry-leading clean claims rates over 98%
- Seamless cloud integration and interoperability with major health information exchanges
- Powerful analytics via athenahealth Network for benchmarking and performance insights
Cons
- High implementation costs and timeline, often requiring significant upfront investment
- Steep learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive core interface
- Limited customization options compared to more modular competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large specialty practices prioritizing integrated revenue optimization and data-driven insights over budget constraints.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $300-$500 per provider per month including core EMR/PM features, with add-ons for advanced analytics and population health.
Epic Systems
enterpriseLeading enterprise EHR solution with integrated practice management for large-scale healthcare organizations and hospitals.
Care Everywhere, enabling secure nationwide patient data sharing across disparate EHR systems.
Epic Systems is a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) and practice management software platform designed for large-scale healthcare organizations, integrating patient records, scheduling, billing, and revenue cycle management into a unified system. It supports clinical workflows, interoperability across providers, and advanced analytics for population health management. With modules like MyChart for patient engagement, Epic streamlines operations while ensuring HIPAA compliance and data security.
Pros
- Exceptional scalability and customization for enterprise-level needs
- Seamless interoperability via Care Everywhere network
- Robust revenue cycle management and analytics tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Less ideal for small practices due to complexity
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and academic medical centers seeking an integrated, enterprise-grade EMR and practice management solution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; implementation often exceeds $1M with annual subscriptions scaling to tens of millions based on organization size.
Oracle Health (Cerner)
enterpriseComprehensive EHR and practice management system offering advanced interoperability and revenue cycle tools for health systems.
Millennium platform with advanced population health management and predictive analytics
Oracle Health (formerly Cerner) is a robust enterprise-grade electronic medical record (EMR) and practice management software suite designed for healthcare organizations. It integrates patient records, scheduling, billing, revenue cycle management, and clinical workflows into a unified platform. Known for its scalability, it supports large hospitals and multi-location practices with advanced interoperability and analytics capabilities.
Pros
- Highly scalable for enterprise-level deployments
- Excellent interoperability with FHIR and other standards
- Comprehensive revenue cycle and analytics tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation and customization costs
- Slower updates compared to smaller competitors
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and multi-specialty practices needing scalable, integrated EMR and practice management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500K+ annually for mid-sized practices, based on modules, users, and implementation.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseAll-in-one EHR and practice management software with telehealth, patient portal, and robust billing features for ambulatory practices.
Healow ecosystem for seamless patient engagement, including app-based check-ins, video visits, and automated messaging
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR and practice management software designed for ambulatory practices, offering integrated tools for electronic health records, appointment scheduling, billing, and patient engagement. It supports telehealth, e-prescribing, and revenue cycle management to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. With features like population health analytics and mobile accessibility, it caters to multi-provider practices seeking scalability.
Pros
- Robust integration of EHR, practice management, and telehealth in one platform
- Advanced revenue cycle management with automated billing and claims processing
- Strong patient portal (Healow) for engagement and self-scheduling
Cons
- Clunky user interface with a steep learning curve for new users
- Implementation process can be lengthy and complex
- Customer support response times often criticized as inconsistent
Best For
Medium to large ambulatory practices needing an all-in-one solution for clinical and administrative workflows.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $449 per provider per month, scaling with users, modules, and practice size; quotes required.
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseIntegrated EHR and practice management platform designed for specialty practices with strong analytics and population health tools.
Integrated Revenue Cycle Management with AI-driven predictive analytics for denial prevention and cash flow optimization
NextGen Healthcare provides a comprehensive EHR and practice management platform tailored for ambulatory and specialty practices, integrating clinical documentation, scheduling, billing, and revenue cycle management. It supports interoperability through standards like FHIR and offers advanced analytics for population health and quality reporting. The solution is scalable for multi-location practices with robust customization options for various medical specialties.
Pros
- Strong revenue cycle management with automated billing and claims scrubbing
- Excellent interoperability and population health analytics
- Highly customizable templates for specialty practices
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation costs and timeline
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small practices
Best For
Mid-to-large specialty practices or multi-location groups needing advanced revenue cycle tools and scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $400–$700 per provider per month depending on modules and practice size; requires quote.
Kareo
specializedIntelligent billing and practice management software with EHR integration focused on simplifying revenue cycle for independent practices.
Revenue Cycle Management with guaranteed high first-pass claim acceptance rates and AI-driven denial management
Kareo is a cloud-based EMR and practice management software designed for independent medical practices, offering integrated electronic health records, scheduling, billing, and revenue cycle management. It streamlines administrative tasks like appointment booking, claims submission, and patient communication while providing analytics for financial performance. Kareo emphasizes revenue optimization with tools for denial management and patient payments.
Pros
- Robust integrated billing with high clean claims rates (up to 99%)
- User-friendly cloud platform with mobile access and patient portal
- Strong revenue cycle management tools including denial prevention
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive for very small practices
- Customer support response times vary
- Limited customization for highly specialized workflows
Best For
Small to mid-sized independent practices focused on efficient billing and revenue management alongside core EMR functions.
Pricing
Starts at around $140 per provider/month for billing, $300+ for full EMR/PM suite; custom quotes based on practice size and modules.
AdvancedMD
enterpriseCloud-based practice management and EHR solution providing scheduling, billing, and compliance tools for small to mid-sized practices.
Advanced Revenue Cycle Management with AI-driven claim scrubbing and denial prevention for optimized reimbursements.
AdvancedMD is a cloud-based, all-in-one EHR and practice management software tailored for medical practices, offering integrated tools for scheduling, billing, patient engagement, and clinical workflows. It supports specialties across healthcare with features like electronic prescribing, revenue cycle management, and customizable reporting. The platform emphasizes interoperability and scalability, making it suitable for growing practices.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of EHR, PM, and RCM in one platform
- Strong analytics and reporting for financial and operational insights
- Cloud-based with mobile access and reliable uptime
Cons
- High pricing that may strain smaller practices
- Steep learning curve and occasionally clunky interface
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Mid-sized to large multi-specialty practices needing robust revenue cycle management and scalable EHR tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; starts at ~$400-$800 per provider/month depending on modules (PM, EHR, RCM); additional fees for implementation and add-ons.
DrChrono
specializediPad-native EHR and practice management platform with mobile-first design for efficient charting, billing, and telehealth.
Native iPad charting app for seamless mobile documentation and workflow
DrChrono is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) and practice management software that streamlines clinical workflows, patient scheduling, billing, and telehealth for medical practices. It provides customizable charting, e-prescribing, patient portals, and integrated revenue cycle management to enhance efficiency. Particularly strong in mobile accessibility, it supports native iPad and iPhone apps for on-the-go documentation and operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of EHR, scheduling, and billing in one platform
- Excellent mobile and tablet support with native iOS apps
- Robust telehealth, patient engagement, and customization options
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features and additional users
- Customer support can be inconsistent with longer response times
- Steep learning curve for complex customizations and reporting
Best For
Small to mid-sized ambulatory practices needing mobile-friendly, all-in-one EMR and practice management with strong telehealth capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $199/provider/month (billed annually) for Essentials, $299 for Professional, $439 for Premium; enterprise custom pricing available.
Veradigm
enterpriseEHR and practice management suite formerly Allscripts, offering data-driven insights and interoperability for ambulatory care.
Direct payer integrations and automated claims scrubbing for superior revenue cycle performance
Veradigm provides a robust EMR and practice management software suite tailored for healthcare providers, integrating electronic health records, patient scheduling, billing, and revenue cycle management into a unified platform. It emphasizes interoperability with health information exchanges and payer systems, enabling seamless data sharing and claims processing. The solution includes advanced analytics for population health and practice performance insights, supporting both ambulatory and hospital-based workflows.
Pros
- Strong interoperability and payer connectivity for efficient claims submission
- Comprehensive revenue cycle management tools with built-in analytics
- Scalable for large practices with enterprise-grade customization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process
- Customer support can be inconsistent based on user feedback
Best For
Mid-to-large multi-specialty practices or health systems needing advanced interoperability and revenue management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $300-$500 per provider/month, plus implementation fees; quotes required.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree web-based EHR with practice management features including charting, e-prescribing, and basic scheduling for small practices.
Fully free EHR model with the nation's largest integrated e-prescribing network
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based EHR and practice management software that enables medical practices to manage electronic health records, patient scheduling, e-prescribing, and basic billing workflows. It stands out as one of the first fully free EHR platforms, certified for meaningful use, allowing small practices to digitize records without significant investment. The system emphasizes ease of adoption with a web-based interface and integrates with labs and pharmacies for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Completely free core EHR and practice management features
- Intuitive, web-based interface with quick setup
- Largest e-prescribing network in the US for seamless prescriptions
Cons
- Intrusive advertisements from pharma partners in the free version
- Limited advanced customization and reporting tools
- Customer support primarily community-based with slow response times
Best For
Small to medium-sized independent practices seeking a cost-free EHR solution with essential practice management capabilities.
Pricing
Free for core features; revenue generated via pharma ads and optional premium partnerships/add-ons.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, athenahealth emerges as the top choice, excelling in cloud-based streamline workflows, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices. Epic Systems ranks second, a leading enterprise solution with integrated EHR for large organizations, while Oracle Health (Cerner) follows, offering advanced interoperability and revenue cycle tools for health systems. Each platform provides distinct strengths to suit various practice needs.
Explore athenahealth today to discover why it leads the pack—its intuitive design and comprehensive features can transform your practice's efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison