Quick Overview
- 1#1: athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines scheduling, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
- 2#2: Epic Systems - Integrated EHR and practice management system offering robust features for patient records, billing, and interoperability across healthcare organizations.
- 3#3: Oracle Health - Comprehensive healthcare platform with practice management tools for revenue cycle, scheduling, and clinical workflows in large-scale environments.
- 4#4: Kareo - Practice management and billing software designed for independent practices to handle claims, payments, and scheduling efficiently.
- 5#5: AdvancedMD - All-in-one practice management solution with EHR integration for appointment scheduling, billing, and patient management.
- 6#6: NextGen Healthcare - Ambulatory EHR and practice management system supporting population health, revenue cycle, and office workflows.
- 7#7: eClinicalWorks - Cloud-based EHR and practice management software providing telehealth, billing, and patient portal features.
- 8#8: DrChrono - Mobile-first EHR and practice management platform focused on scheduling, charting, and billing for specialty practices.
- 9#9: Veradigm - Practice management and EHR solution offering data analytics, interoperability, and revenue management tools.
- 10#10: Practice Fusion - Free cloud-based EHR with practice management capabilities for charting, e-prescribing, and basic billing.
Tools were selected based on core functionality, user experience, reliability, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection that caters to diverse practice sizes, specialties, and operational needs.
Comparison Table
For healthcare providers seeking the right practice management software, this comparison table breaks down top tools like Athenahealth, Epic Systems, Oracle Health, Kareo, and AdvancedMD, highlighting key features, integration capabilities, and operational efficiency to streamline decision-making. Readers will gain clarity on how each solution aligns with their specific practice needs, from administrative workflows to patient engagement tools.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines scheduling, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | Epic Systems Integrated EHR and practice management system offering robust features for patient records, billing, and interoperability across healthcare organizations. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Oracle Health Comprehensive healthcare platform with practice management tools for revenue cycle, scheduling, and clinical workflows in large-scale environments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Kareo Practice management and billing software designed for independent practices to handle claims, payments, and scheduling efficiently. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | AdvancedMD All-in-one practice management solution with EHR integration for appointment scheduling, billing, and patient management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | NextGen Healthcare Ambulatory EHR and practice management system supporting population health, revenue cycle, and office workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | eClinicalWorks Cloud-based EHR and practice management software providing telehealth, billing, and patient portal features. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | DrChrono Mobile-first EHR and practice management platform focused on scheduling, charting, and billing for specialty practices. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Veradigm Practice management and EHR solution offering data analytics, interoperability, and revenue management tools. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Practice Fusion Free cloud-based EHR with practice management capabilities for charting, e-prescribing, and basic billing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines scheduling, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
Integrated EHR and practice management system offering robust features for patient records, billing, and interoperability across healthcare organizations.
Comprehensive healthcare platform with practice management tools for revenue cycle, scheduling, and clinical workflows in large-scale environments.
Practice management and billing software designed for independent practices to handle claims, payments, and scheduling efficiently.
All-in-one practice management solution with EHR integration for appointment scheduling, billing, and patient management.
Ambulatory EHR and practice management system supporting population health, revenue cycle, and office workflows.
Cloud-based EHR and practice management software providing telehealth, billing, and patient portal features.
Mobile-first EHR and practice management platform focused on scheduling, charting, and billing for specialty practices.
Practice management and EHR solution offering data analytics, interoperability, and revenue management tools.
Free cloud-based EHR with practice management capabilities for charting, e-prescribing, and basic billing.
athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management platform that streamlines scheduling, billing, and patient engagement for medical practices.
AI-powered revenue cycle management that predicts and prevents claim denials with over 99% clean claims rate
athenahealth is a comprehensive cloud-based platform offering electronic health records (EHR), practice management, and revenue cycle management solutions for healthcare providers. It automates scheduling, billing, claims processing, and patient engagement while ensuring HIPAA compliance and interoperability with other systems. Advanced analytics and AI-driven insights help practices optimize operations and financial performance.
Pros
- Seamless integration of EHR, PM, and patient portal
- Powerful revenue cycle management with high clean claims rates
- Robust analytics and reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- High pricing can be prohibitive for small practices
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Limited customization options compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices needing an all-in-one, scalable solution with strong revenue cycle capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $140-$450 per provider/month, plus implementation fees and add-ons.
Epic Systems
enterpriseIntegrated EHR and practice management system offering robust features for patient records, billing, and interoperability across healthcare organizations.
Resolute Revenue Cycle Management, providing end-to-end automation from patient registration to claims adjudication with AI-driven denial prevention.
Epic Systems offers a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) platform with robust healthcare practice management modules, including scheduling via Cadence, revenue cycle management through Resolute, and billing automation. It integrates clinical documentation, patient registration, claims processing, and financial reporting into a unified system tailored for large-scale healthcare providers. Renowned for its scalability and reliability, Epic supports complex workflows in hospitals and health systems while ensuring HIPAA compliance and data security.
Pros
- Exceptional scalability and customization for enterprise-level operations
- Superior interoperability via Care Everywhere for cross-provider data sharing
- Advanced analytics and reporting for revenue cycle optimization
Cons
- Prohibitively high implementation and ongoing costs
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- Prolonged deployment timelines often exceeding a year
Best For
Large hospitals, multi-site health systems, and academic medical centers requiring integrated, high-volume practice management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with implementation costs typically ranging from $500,000 to tens of millions, plus annual maintenance fees based on usage and modules.
Oracle Health
enterpriseComprehensive healthcare platform with practice management tools for revenue cycle, scheduling, and clinical workflows in large-scale environments.
AI-powered revenue cycle intelligence for predictive denial management and cash flow optimization
Oracle Health provides a comprehensive suite of healthcare solutions, including robust practice management software for scheduling, billing, patient registration, claims processing, and revenue cycle management. It integrates deeply with electronic health records (EHR), clinical workflows, and Oracle's cloud infrastructure to streamline operations for large-scale providers. The platform leverages AI-driven analytics for predictive insights, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade scalability and integration with EHR systems
- Advanced AI analytics for revenue optimization and forecasting
- Strong compliance tools for HIPAA and regulatory standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High costs unsuitable for small practices
- Customization requires significant IT resources
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and multi-site practices needing scalable, integrated enterprise management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically starts at $500K+ annually with substantial implementation fees.
Kareo
specializedPractice management and billing software designed for independent practices to handle claims, payments, and scheduling efficiently.
Kareo Intelligence: AI-driven analytics platform for real-time revenue optimization, denial prediction, and practice performance insights
Kareo is a cloud-based platform tailored for independent healthcare practices, providing integrated practice management, electronic health records (EHR), medical billing, and patient engagement tools. It streamlines scheduling, claims submission, revenue cycle management, and patient communications to enhance operational efficiency and financial performance. Designed for small to mid-sized practices, Kareo emphasizes ease of use and scalability without the overhead of enterprise systems.
Pros
- Comprehensive revenue cycle management with automated claims scrubbing and denial handling
- Intuitive cloud-based interface with mobile access and strong EHR integration
- Robust patient engagement tools including portals, telehealth, and automated reminders
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can strain solo practitioners or very small practices
- Limited advanced customization options compared to larger enterprise solutions
- Occasional performance issues with reporting and analytics features
Best For
Small to medium-sized independent medical practices seeking an all-in-one PM, EHR, and billing platform to optimize revenue and workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $140-$300 per provider/month for core PM and EHR; additional fees for billing services (pay-per-claim or flat rate) and implementation.
AdvancedMD
enterpriseAll-in-one practice management solution with EHR integration for appointment scheduling, billing, and patient management.
Intelligent Revenue Cycle Management with automated denial prevention and claims scrubbing
AdvancedMD is a cloud-based healthcare platform offering integrated electronic health records (EHR), practice management, and revenue cycle management tools tailored for medical practices. It streamlines scheduling, billing, claims processing, patient engagement via portals, and telehealth services while ensuring HIPAA compliance. The solution supports specialties across small to large practices, enhancing operational efficiency and financial performance.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of EHR, PM, and RCM
- Robust reporting and analytics for revenue optimization
- Scalable cloud platform with mobile access
Cons
- Steep learning curve for customization
- Higher pricing for smaller practices
- Customer support can be inconsistent
Best For
Mid-sized specialty practices seeking an all-in-one solution for billing, scheduling, and patient management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $400-$700 per provider/month for core PM features, with add-ons for EHR and advanced modules.
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseAmbulatory EHR and practice management system supporting population health, revenue cycle, and office workflows.
Enterprise Analytics platform for predictive revenue insights and population health management
NextGen Healthcare offers a comprehensive practice management software solution designed for ambulatory and specialty practices, handling scheduling, billing, claims processing, and revenue cycle management. It integrates tightly with their EHR system to streamline workflows from patient intake to payment collection. The platform supports interoperability standards like HL7 and FHIR, facilitating data exchange with other healthcare systems. Advanced reporting and analytics help practices optimize financial performance and operational efficiency.
Pros
- Robust revenue cycle management with claims scrubbing and denial management
- Scalable for multi-location and enterprise-level practices
- Strong interoperability and analytics tools for data insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- Custom implementation often required, leading to longer setup times
- Higher cost structure compared to smaller competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large ambulatory practices and specialties needing scalable, integrated PM and EHR capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $300-$600 per provider/month depending on modules, users, and practice size.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management software providing telehealth, billing, and patient portal features.
Sunoh.ai ambient AI scribing for automated, hands-free clinical documentation
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive electronic health records (EHR) and practice management software suite designed for ambulatory healthcare practices. It integrates clinical documentation, appointment scheduling, medical billing, patient engagement tools, and telehealth capabilities into a single platform. The solution supports interoperability with other systems and offers scalability for small to large practices across various specialties.
Pros
- All-in-one EHR, practice management, and revenue cycle tools reduce need for multiple vendors
- Strong interoperability and patient engagement via the Healow patient portal and app
- Scalable for solo practitioners to large multi-specialty groups with cloud and on-premise options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and outdated user interface for some modules
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent and slow
- Customization options are limited without additional costs
Best For
Medium to large ambulatory practices seeking a robust, integrated platform for EHR and practice management with strong telehealth features.
Pricing
Custom pricing typically ranges from $400-$700 per provider per month, depending on practice size, modules selected, and deployment type (cloud or on-premise).
DrChrono
specializedMobile-first EHR and practice management platform focused on scheduling, charting, and billing for specialty practices.
Native iPad app for real-time charting, signing prescriptions, and managing encounters directly from mobile devices
DrChrono is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR and practice management software tailored for medical practices, offering tools for scheduling, billing, patient engagement, telehealth, and electronic prescribing. It streamlines workflows with customizable charting, automated billing, and seamless integration with labs and pharmacies. Particularly strong in mobile functionality, it enables providers to access and update patient records on iPads and iPhones during visits.
Pros
- Excellent mobile app for iPad/iPhone charting and practice management on the go
- Robust integrations with labs, pharmacies, and payment processors
- Customizable forms and templates for efficient documentation
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Customer support can be inconsistent and slow
- Pricing is provider-based and can become expensive for larger practices
Best For
Small to medium-sized independent practices seeking a mobile-first EHR and practice management solution with strong customization.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $199 per provider per month for core EHR/PM features, with add-ons for telehealth and advanced billing.
Veradigm
enterprisePractice management and EHR solution offering data analytics, interoperability, and revenue management tools.
Veradigm Network analytics for predictive revenue insights and population health management
Veradigm offers a comprehensive healthcare practice management software suite that handles scheduling, billing, claims processing, and reporting for medical practices. Integrated with its EHR platform, it supports revenue cycle management, patient eligibility verification, and analytics to optimize operations. As a mature solution from a leading healthcare IT provider, it's designed for scalability across small to large practices.
Pros
- Robust integration with EHR and revenue cycle tools
- Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities
- Strong compliance features for HIPAA and regulatory standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing for smaller practices
- Occasional reports of customer support delays
Best For
Mid-sized to large healthcare practices seeking scalable, enterprise-grade practice management with deep EHR integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $400-$700 per provider per month including implementation fees.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree cloud-based EHR with practice management capabilities for charting, e-prescribing, and basic billing.
Fully free, ad-supported EHR platform with no base subscription required
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) and practice management software tailored for independent medical practices, offering charting, e-prescribing, appointment scheduling, and basic billing tools. It streamlines clinical workflows with a patient portal for engagement and supports Meaningful Use requirements. The platform stands out for its web-accessible design, enabling use across devices without installation.
Pros
- Free core EHR and practice management features with no subscription fees
- Intuitive, web-based interface accessible on any device
- Integrated e-prescribing and patient portal for better engagement
Cons
- Intrusive ads throughout the platform
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Solo practitioners and small independent clinics seeking a cost-effective, easy-to-adopt EHR solution without upfront costs.
Pricing
Free for core features (ad-supported); optional paid add-ons for premium integrations and support starting at $149/month per provider.
Conclusion
Healthcare practice management software options boast diverse strengths, yet athenahealth leads as the top choice, excelling in streamlining scheduling, billing, and patient engagement. Epic Systems and Oracle Health follow closely, with Epic offering integrated, interoperable EHR tools for organizations and Oracle Health providing robust, large-scale solutions for clinical workflows. Choosing the right tool depends on practice needs, but the top three deliver exceptional value for efficiency and growth.
Start your journey to streamlined operations—explore athenahealth today to experience its user-friendly design and impactful features for practice success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
