Quick Overview
- 1#1: UKG Pro - Comprehensive HCM platform with advanced scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll optimized for healthcare compliance and shift-based pay.
- 2#2: ADP Workforce Now - Scalable payroll and HR solution featuring healthcare-specific tools for overtime, differentials, and regulatory compliance.
- 3#3: Paychex Flex - Full-service payroll handling complex healthcare pay structures, benefits administration, and ACA reporting.
- 4#4: Paylocity - Modern payroll platform supporting healthcare's variable schedules, per diems, and employee self-service.
- 5#5: Dayforce - Unified HCM with real-time payroll for contingent healthcare workers and demand forecasting.
- 6#6: Workday HCM - Cloud-based enterprise HCM with integrated payroll tailored for large healthcare organizations.
- 7#7: WorkForce Software - Specialized workforce management suite with scheduling and payroll integration for healthcare operations.
- 8#8: Oracle HCM Cloud - AI-driven HCM solution with healthcare industry templates for global payroll and compliance.
- 9#9: Paycom - Self-service payroll platform streamlining healthcare pay processing and employee beti accessibility.
- 10#10: Rippling - All-in-one workforce system automating payroll, HR, and compliance for healthcare teams.
Tools were evaluated based on healthcare-specific features like compliance automation, support for variable schedules, scalability, and user-friendliness, ensuring they deliver robust value for providers of all sizes.
Comparison Table
This comparison table breaks down top healthcare payroll tools, including UKG Pro, ADP Workforce Now, Paychex Flex, Paylocity, Dayforce, and more, to help users quickly assess key features, pricing, and usability. Readers will discover which solution aligns best with their practice's specific needs, from compliance support to integration capabilities, in a clear, actionable format.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UKG Pro Comprehensive HCM platform with advanced scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll optimized for healthcare compliance and shift-based pay. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | ADP Workforce Now Scalable payroll and HR solution featuring healthcare-specific tools for overtime, differentials, and regulatory compliance. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Paychex Flex Full-service payroll handling complex healthcare pay structures, benefits administration, and ACA reporting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Paylocity Modern payroll platform supporting healthcare's variable schedules, per diems, and employee self-service. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Dayforce Unified HCM with real-time payroll for contingent healthcare workers and demand forecasting. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Workday HCM Cloud-based enterprise HCM with integrated payroll tailored for large healthcare organizations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | WorkForce Software Specialized workforce management suite with scheduling and payroll integration for healthcare operations. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Oracle HCM Cloud AI-driven HCM solution with healthcare industry templates for global payroll and compliance. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Paycom Self-service payroll platform streamlining healthcare pay processing and employee beti accessibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Rippling All-in-one workforce system automating payroll, HR, and compliance for healthcare teams. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
Comprehensive HCM platform with advanced scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll optimized for healthcare compliance and shift-based pay.
Scalable payroll and HR solution featuring healthcare-specific tools for overtime, differentials, and regulatory compliance.
Full-service payroll handling complex healthcare pay structures, benefits administration, and ACA reporting.
Modern payroll platform supporting healthcare's variable schedules, per diems, and employee self-service.
Unified HCM with real-time payroll for contingent healthcare workers and demand forecasting.
Cloud-based enterprise HCM with integrated payroll tailored for large healthcare organizations.
Specialized workforce management suite with scheduling and payroll integration for healthcare operations.
AI-driven HCM solution with healthcare industry templates for global payroll and compliance.
Self-service payroll platform streamlining healthcare pay processing and employee beti accessibility.
All-in-one workforce system automating payroll, HR, and compliance for healthcare teams.
UKG Pro
enterpriseComprehensive HCM platform with advanced scheduling, timekeeping, and payroll optimized for healthcare compliance and shift-based pay.
Dimensional Workforce Management with AI-driven scheduling that dynamically calculates healthcare-specific pay rules and predicts staffing needs
UKG Pro is a robust, enterprise-grade human capital management (HCM) platform specializing in payroll solutions optimized for healthcare organizations. It automates complex payroll processes including shift differentials, overtime, per diem pay, and union rules while ensuring compliance with HIPAA, ACA, and other regulations. Integrated with advanced timekeeping, scheduling, and workforce management, it provides real-time analytics and forecasting to manage variable staffing demands in hospitals and clinics effectively.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of healthcare-specific pay complexities like shift premiums and certifications
- Seamless integration with scheduling and time/attendance for accurate payroll automation
- Advanced compliance tools and analytics for regulatory adherence and workforce optimization
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup for large-scale deployments
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users despite intuitive mobile apps
- Pricing is premium and quote-based, less ideal for small practices
Best For
Large healthcare systems and hospitals requiring scalable, integrated payroll with advanced workforce management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $20-40 per employee per month depending on modules and scale; quote-based with annual contracts.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseScalable payroll and HR solution featuring healthcare-specific tools for overtime, differentials, and regulatory compliance.
Advanced healthcare compliance engine with automated alerts for wage-and-hour laws, credential expirations, and ACA/HIPAA reporting
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform designed for mid-to-large enterprises, offering robust payroll processing with specialized features for healthcare organizations such as shift differentials, per diem pay, on-call compensation, and compliance with HIPAA and ACA regulations. It integrates payroll with HR, time and attendance, benefits administration, and talent management to streamline workforce operations in complex healthcare environments. The solution supports multi-state payroll, credential tracking, and scheduling for nurses and clinical staff, making it ideal for hospitals and large provider networks.
Pros
- Healthcare-specific payroll capabilities including shift premiums, union rules, and regulatory compliance
- Scalable for large organizations with seamless integrations to EHR systems and strong reporting tools
- Comprehensive HCM suite that unifies payroll, HR, and time tracking in one platform
Cons
- Complex setup and implementation process requiring significant time and resources
- Custom quote-based pricing can be expensive for smaller healthcare providers
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users despite intuitive mobile app
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and multi-location healthcare providers needing enterprise-grade payroll with deep compliance and integration capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $25-$60 per employee per month depending on modules and employee count, with implementation fees.
Paychex Flex
enterpriseFull-service payroll handling complex healthcare pay structures, benefits administration, and ACA reporting.
Healthcare-optimized payroll rules engine that automates shift premiums, overtime, and compliance filings
Paychex Flex is a robust, cloud-based payroll and HR platform that provides comprehensive payroll processing, time tracking, and compliance tools tailored for healthcare organizations. It excels in handling complex healthcare payroll needs like shift differentials, per diem pay, union rules, and regulatory compliance including ACA and HIPAA-related reporting. The solution integrates benefits administration and analytics to support efficient workforce management in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Pros
- Strong healthcare-specific compliance and reporting for regulations like ACA and state-specific healthcare mandates
- Integrated time and attendance with mobile app for shift workers and scheduling
- Scalable for mid-sized healthcare providers with robust payroll accuracy and automation
Cons
- Pricing can be higher for smaller practices due to per-employee fees and add-ons
- Some advanced customization requires professional services
- Occasional reports of slower customer support response times during peak seasons
Best For
Mid-sized healthcare providers and hospitals needing integrated payroll, HR, and compliance for shift-based workforces.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $80+/month base plus $4-6 per employee/pay period, with add-ons for advanced features.
Paylocity
enterpriseModern payroll platform supporting healthcare's variable schedules, per diems, and employee self-service.
Healthcare-optimized time and labor management with automated shift bidding and fatigue tracking
Paylocity is a comprehensive cloud-based HR and payroll platform tailored for healthcare organizations, offering payroll processing, time and attendance tracking, benefits administration, and compliance tools for regulations like HIPAA and ACA. It supports complex healthcare payroll needs such as shift differentials, overtime for nurses and staff, and variable compensation. The unified platform includes self-service portals and a mobile app for streamlined employee onboarding and management.
Pros
- Robust healthcare compliance features including ACA reporting and HIPAA-aligned data security
- Advanced time and attendance with shift scheduling for 24/7 operations
- Integrated HR tools like performance management and onboarding in one platform
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive for small healthcare practices
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited support for international payroll outside the US
Best For
Mid-sized healthcare providers and hospitals needing an integrated payroll and HR solution with strong compliance and workforce management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $15-30 per employee per month depending on modules and employee count.
Dayforce
enterpriseUnified HCM with real-time payroll for contingent healthcare workers and demand forecasting.
Continuous real-time payroll that calculates and updates employee pay instantly as time is tracked and approved
Dayforce, from Ceridian, is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform specializing in payroll, HR, time and attendance, and workforce management tailored for complex industries like healthcare. It handles healthcare-specific challenges such as shift differentials, per diem pay, union contracts, and compliance with regulations like HIPAA and ACA through real-time processing and AI-driven insights. The unified suite integrates scheduling, benefits, and talent management to streamline operations for hospitals, clinics, and large providers.
Pros
- Advanced compliance and regulatory tools for healthcare-specific payroll rules
- Real-time continuous payroll processing for shift-based workforces
- Seamless integration of time tracking, scheduling, and HCM modules
Cons
- High implementation costs and timeline for enterprise setups
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller healthcare providers
Best For
Large healthcare organizations with complex, shift-heavy payroll needs requiring integrated HCM functionality.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $25-60 per employee per month depending on modules and scale; quotes required.
Workday HCM
enterpriseCloud-based enterprise HCM with integrated payroll tailored for large healthcare organizations.
Contiguous architecture enabling real-time payroll updates across HR, time tracking, and financials without batch processing
Workday HCM is a cloud-based enterprise human capital management suite with integrated payroll capabilities designed for complex environments like healthcare. It automates payroll processing, including shift differentials, union rules, benefits administration, and compliance with regulations such as ACA, HIPAA, and FLSA. The platform unifies HR, payroll, and financial data for real-time insights and streamlined workforce management in large organizations.
Pros
- Seamless integration of payroll with HR, benefits, and finance modules for holistic healthcare workforce management
- Robust compliance tools and reporting tailored to healthcare regulations and variable pay structures
- AI-powered analytics and real-time data processing for accurate, timely payroll
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup time, often 6-12 months for large deployments
- Steep learning curve due to its enterprise complexity, requiring extensive training
- Premium pricing that may not suit mid-sized or smaller healthcare providers
Best For
Large healthcare systems and enterprises with complex payroll needs requiring full HCM integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$250 per employee per year, plus implementation fees.
WorkForce Software
specializedSpecialized workforce management suite with scheduling and payroll integration for healthcare operations.
Pay Policy Manager for configuring thousands of complex healthcare pay rules without custom coding
WorkForce Software's WorkForce Suite is a comprehensive workforce management platform designed for healthcare organizations, offering robust time and attendance tracking, scheduling, and seamless payroll integration. It excels in handling complex pay rules such as shift differentials, overtime, and union contracts common in healthcare settings. The solution ensures compliance with regulations like HIPAA and ACA while providing real-time data for accurate payroll processing.
Pros
- Advanced rules engine for healthcare-specific pay calculations including differentials and call-back pay
- Strong integrations with major payroll providers like ADP and UKG
- Real-time compliance monitoring and forecasting to reduce payroll errors
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Higher cost suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Implementation can take several months
Best For
Large healthcare systems and hospitals with complex, variable shift workforces requiring precise time-to-payroll automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; modular subscription starting around $50-$100 per employee/month depending on features.
Oracle HCM Cloud
enterpriseAI-driven HCM solution with healthcare industry templates for global payroll and compliance.
Advanced payroll rules engine with AI optimization for handling healthcare's variable compensation and compliance complexities
Oracle HCM Cloud is an enterprise-grade human capital management suite with integrated payroll capabilities, suitable for processing complex healthcare payrolls including shift differentials, overtime, and union rules. It offers robust compliance tools for regulations like ACA, HIPAA-related reporting, and global payroll support, making it ideal for large healthcare organizations. The platform leverages AI for workforce analytics and integrates seamlessly with Oracle's ecosystem for end-to-end HR and finance management.
Pros
- Highly configurable rules engine for healthcare-specific pay structures like per diems and bonuses
- Strong compliance and regulatory reporting for ACA, HIPAA, and state-specific healthcare mandates
- Scalable for global enterprises with AI-driven payroll analytics and forecasting
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant consulting and IT resources
- High cost structure not ideal for small or mid-sized healthcare providers
- Steep learning curve for non-technical HR users
Best For
Large healthcare systems and hospital networks needing integrated, scalable HCM with advanced payroll for complex workforce management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; typically $15-30 per employee per month, plus implementation fees starting at $100K+.
Paycom
enterpriseSelf-service payroll platform streamlining healthcare pay processing and employee beti accessibility.
Single-database platform that syncs all HR, payroll, and time data in real-time without integrations
Paycom is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform offering robust payroll processing, time and labor management, and HR tools designed to support healthcare organizations with complex staffing needs. It automates payroll for shift work, differentials, per diems, and overtime common in hospitals and clinics, while ensuring compliance with regulations like HIPAA and FLSA. The single-database architecture streamlines data flow across payroll, scheduling, and benefits administration, reducing errors in high-volume healthcare environments.
Pros
- All-in-one HCM platform eliminates need for multiple vendors
- Advanced scheduling and time tracking for 24/7 healthcare shifts
- Strong automation and compliance tools reduce manual errors
Cons
- Higher pricing for smaller healthcare practices
- Lengthy implementation process
- Limited deep customization for highly specialized healthcare workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large healthcare providers needing integrated payroll, scheduling, and HR in a single platform.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $10-20 per employee per month depending on modules and employee count.
Rippling
enterpriseAll-in-one workforce system automating payroll, HR, and compliance for healthcare teams.
Automated credential and license tracking with expiration alerts and compliance reporting for healthcare staff
Rippling is a unified HR, payroll, and IT platform that automates payroll processing for healthcare organizations by handling complex structures like shift differentials, overtime, and per diems for nurses and clinical staff. It ensures compliance with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA and supports credential management for licenses and certifications. The platform integrates with scheduling and time-tracking tools to streamline workforce management in hospitals and clinics.
Pros
- Unified platform combining payroll, HR, benefits, and IT reduces silos
- Strong automation for healthcare-specific pay rules and compliance
- Seamless integrations with scheduling software like Kronos or API
Cons
- Less specialized for healthcare than dedicated solutions like API or Inovalon
- Pricing can escalate with add-ons for larger organizations
- Steeper learning curve for customizing healthcare workflows
Best For
Mid-sized healthcare providers seeking an all-in-one platform for payroll and workforce management.
Pricing
Starts at $8 per active user per month for core HR and payroll; custom quotes for healthcare features and enterprise scale.
Conclusion
The review highlights a strong field of healthcare payroll tools, with the top-ranked UKG Pro leading through its comprehensive HCM platform, advanced scheduling, and specialized compliance features for shift-based pay. ADP Workforce Now and Paychex Flex follow closely, offering scalable, complex regulatory, and full-service administrative support for diverse healthcare needs, making each a viable choice depending on specific operational priorities. Together, these solutions demonstrate the evolution of efficient, tailored payroll management in the sector.
Discover why UKG Pro is the top pick—explore its integrated tools to streamline healthcare payroll, compliance, and operations effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison