Quick Overview
- 1#1: Athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform with intelligent patient scheduling, online booking, and automated reminders for medical practices.
- 2#2: AdvancedMD - Comprehensive practice management software featuring robust patient scheduling, recurring appointments, and HIPAA-compliant online booking.
- 3#3: Kareo - Billing and practice management solution with intuitive patient scheduling, waitlist management, and patient self-scheduling portals.
- 4#4: eClinicalWorks - EHR system offering advanced patient scheduling with telehealth integration, provider matching, and mobile access for clinics.
- 5#5: NextGen Healthcare - Enterprise EHR platform with sophisticated scheduling tools for multi-location practices, including rule-based appointment management.
- 6#6: DrChrono - Mobile-first EHR and practice management software with seamless patient scheduling optimized for iOS devices and online booking.
- 7#7: Practice Fusion - Free web-based EHR with built-in scheduling calendar, patient reminders, and integration for small medical practices.
- 8#8: SimplePractice - Practice management tool for therapists and medical providers featuring easy online scheduling, insurance verification, and client portals.
- 9#9: Solutionreach - Patient engagement platform that streamlines scheduling with automated reminders, online booking, and communication tools.
- 10#10: Weave - Communication platform integrating patient scheduling, text reminders, payments, and reviews for dental and medical offices.
Our selection prioritized robust core features like scheduling flexibility, automation of reminders and bookings, integration with existing systems, and compliance (including HIPAA). We also evaluated user experience, scalability, and value, balancing functionality with practicality to identify tools that deliver long-term benefit.
Comparison Table
This comparison table assists in choosing medical patient scheduling software, featuring tools such as Athenahealth, AdvancedMD, Kareo, eClinicalWorks, NextGen Healthcare, and additional platforms. Readers will gain insights into key features, integration options, and user experience to identify the best fit for their practice's distinct requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform with intelligent patient scheduling, online booking, and automated reminders for medical practices. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | AdvancedMD Comprehensive practice management software featuring robust patient scheduling, recurring appointments, and HIPAA-compliant online booking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 3 | Kareo Billing and practice management solution with intuitive patient scheduling, waitlist management, and patient self-scheduling portals. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | eClinicalWorks EHR system offering advanced patient scheduling with telehealth integration, provider matching, and mobile access for clinics. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | NextGen Healthcare Enterprise EHR platform with sophisticated scheduling tools for multi-location practices, including rule-based appointment management. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | DrChrono Mobile-first EHR and practice management software with seamless patient scheduling optimized for iOS devices and online booking. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Practice Fusion Free web-based EHR with built-in scheduling calendar, patient reminders, and integration for small medical practices. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | SimplePractice Practice management tool for therapists and medical providers featuring easy online scheduling, insurance verification, and client portals. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Solutionreach Patient engagement platform that streamlines scheduling with automated reminders, online booking, and communication tools. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Weave Communication platform integrating patient scheduling, text reminders, payments, and reviews for dental and medical offices. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
Cloud-based EHR and practice management platform with intelligent patient scheduling, online booking, and automated reminders for medical practices.
Comprehensive practice management software featuring robust patient scheduling, recurring appointments, and HIPAA-compliant online booking.
Billing and practice management solution with intuitive patient scheduling, waitlist management, and patient self-scheduling portals.
EHR system offering advanced patient scheduling with telehealth integration, provider matching, and mobile access for clinics.
Enterprise EHR platform with sophisticated scheduling tools for multi-location practices, including rule-based appointment management.
Mobile-first EHR and practice management software with seamless patient scheduling optimized for iOS devices and online booking.
Free web-based EHR with built-in scheduling calendar, patient reminders, and integration for small medical practices.
Practice management tool for therapists and medical providers featuring easy online scheduling, insurance verification, and client portals.
Patient engagement platform that streamlines scheduling with automated reminders, online booking, and communication tools.
Communication platform integrating patient scheduling, text reminders, payments, and reviews for dental and medical offices.
Athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management platform with intelligent patient scheduling, online booking, and automated reminders for medical practices.
Real-time insurance eligibility checks during scheduling to prevent claim denials
Athenahealth's athenaOne platform is a leading cloud-based solution for medical patient scheduling, integrated within its comprehensive EHR and practice management system. It enables online self-scheduling, automated appointment reminders via text, email, or voice, and real-time eligibility verification to streamline workflows. Advanced features like drag-and-drop scheduling, waitlist management, and multi-location support help practices minimize no-shows and maximize provider utilization.
Pros
- Seamless integration with EHR, billing, and telehealth for unified workflows
- Robust automation including AI-driven reminders and predictive scheduling
- 24/7 accessibility via mobile app and patient portal
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing compared to standalone schedulers
- Limited customization for highly specialized workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large medical practices seeking an all-in-one integrated scheduling solution with enterprise-level scalability.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $140/user/month, with tiers based on practice size and modules; quotes required.
AdvancedMD
enterpriseComprehensive practice management software featuring robust patient scheduling, recurring appointments, and HIPAA-compliant online booking.
Real-time insurance eligibility checks directly within the scheduler to prevent booking invalid appointments
AdvancedMD is a comprehensive cloud-based practice management platform tailored for medical practices, featuring advanced patient scheduling tools that support online self-scheduling, drag-and-drop calendars, and multi-provider management. It integrates seamlessly with EHR, billing, and telehealth, enabling efficient appointment booking, automated reminders via SMS, email, or voice, and real-time eligibility verification. This makes it a robust solution for streamlining front-office operations in busy healthcare environments.
Pros
- Powerful scheduling with drag-and-drop interface, recurring appointments, and waitlists
- Automated multi-channel reminders reducing no-shows by up to 50%
- Deep integration with EHR, billing, and insurance verification for workflow efficiency
Cons
- High pricing may strain small practices' budgets
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep for non-tech-savvy users
- Customer support response times occasionally lag during peak periods
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices needing integrated scheduling with full EHR and revenue cycle management.
Pricing
Starts at ~$429/provider/month (billed annually), plus one-time implementation fees and add-ons for advanced modules.
Kareo
enterpriseBilling and practice management solution with intuitive patient scheduling, waitlist management, and patient self-scheduling portals.
Patient Engagement Suite with self-scheduling portal, two-way texting, and AI-driven no-show predictions
Kareo is a cloud-based practice management platform tailored for independent medical practices, offering robust patient scheduling alongside EHR, billing, and telehealth tools. Its scheduling features include drag-and-drop calendars, online patient self-booking, automated reminders via text/email, and waitlist management to optimize provider utilization. The system integrates seamlessly with other modules to streamline workflows from appointment to payment.
Pros
- Comprehensive scheduling with patient self-booking portal and automated reminders to reduce no-shows
- Seamless integration with EHR, billing, and revenue cycle management
- Customizable calendars, recurring appointments, and robust reporting for multi-provider practices
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly with per-provider fees and add-ons for full functionality
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and reporting features
- Occasional reports of slower load times during peak usage
Best For
Small to mid-sized independent medical practices seeking an integrated platform for scheduling, billing, and patient engagement.
Pricing
Starts at $160/month for basic scheduling + billing (1 provider), plus $110-$300 per additional provider/month; custom quotes for EHR and advanced features.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseEHR system offering advanced patient scheduling with telehealth integration, provider matching, and mobile access for clinics.
Healow patient portal for secure online self-scheduling and real-time availability
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive EHR and practice management platform with robust patient scheduling tools designed for medical practices. It supports online appointment booking, automated reminders via text/email, drag-and-drop scheduling, and multi-location/provider management. The system integrates scheduling seamlessly with patient records, billing, and telehealth for efficient workflow.
Pros
- Seamless integration with EHR, billing, and telehealth
- Advanced patient self-scheduling via Healow portal
- Customizable rules, recurring appointments, and automated reminders
Cons
- Steep learning curve and cluttered interface
- Reported occasional glitches and downtime
- High cost with custom pricing
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices needing integrated scheduling within a full EHR ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom quotes; typically $449+ per provider/month, plus setup fees and per-patient charges.
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseEnterprise EHR platform with sophisticated scheduling tools for multi-location practices, including rule-based appointment management.
Intelligent scheduling engine with AI-optimized provider matching and conflict resolution
NextGen Healthcare is a comprehensive EHR and practice management platform that includes robust patient scheduling tools designed for medical practices. It supports multi-provider scheduling, online patient self-booking, automated reminders via SMS/email, and integration with billing and clinical workflows. Ideal for streamlining appointment management in busy healthcare environments while ensuring HIPAA compliance.
Pros
- Seamless integration with EHR and billing systems for unified workflows
- Advanced features like waitlists, recurring appointments, and real-time availability
- Strong HIPAA compliance and customizable scheduling rules for complex practices
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature-rich interface
- High implementation costs and customization fees
- Occasional performance lags with large patient volumes
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices seeking integrated EHR scheduling with enterprise-level scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $300-$600 per provider/month plus one-time implementation fees starting at $10,000+.
DrChrono
specializedMobile-first EHR and practice management software with seamless patient scheduling optimized for iOS devices and online booking.
Native iOS and Android apps for real-time scheduling access and patient check-in
DrChrono is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) platform with integrated patient scheduling software designed for medical practices of all sizes. It enables providers to manage appointments through drag-and-drop calendars, online patient self-booking, automated reminders via text/email, and waitlist functionality. The scheduling tools seamlessly connect with EHR, billing, and telehealth features for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration of scheduling with EHR, billing, and telehealth
- Online patient portal for self-scheduling and real-time availability
- Mobile apps for providers and patients to manage appointments on the go
Cons
- Higher cost may not suit very small practices
- Steeper learning curve for full feature set
- Occasional reports of sync delays or interface glitches
Best For
Small to medium-sized medical practices seeking an all-in-one EHR with robust scheduling capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $199 per provider per month for basic plans, scaling to $439+ for advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree web-based EHR with built-in scheduling calendar, patient reminders, and integration for small medical practices.
Free, fully integrated patient scheduling within a certified EHR platform
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) platform that includes integrated patient scheduling tools for medical practices, enabling online appointment booking, calendar management, and automated reminders. It allows patients to self-schedule via a portal while syncing seamlessly with charting, e-prescribing, and billing features. As a free solution, it targets small to mid-sized practices seeking comprehensive practice management without upfront costs.
Pros
- Completely free core scheduling and EHR features
- Patient self-scheduling portal with automated SMS/email reminders
- Strong integration with clinical workflows and ONC certification
Cons
- Intrusive ads within the interface
- Limited advanced scheduling customization like recurring appointments or resource allocation
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Small to medium-sized medical practices needing a no-cost, all-in-one EHR with reliable basic scheduling capabilities.
Pricing
Free for all core features including scheduling; revenue from non-intrusive ads and optional premium services.
SimplePractice
specializedPractice management tool for therapists and medical providers featuring easy online scheduling, insurance verification, and client portals.
Secure client portal enabling 24/7 self-scheduling and portal-based communication
SimplePractice is an all-in-one practice management software tailored for health and wellness professionals, with strong patient scheduling tools including an intuitive calendar, online booking, and automated reminders. It supports seamless appointment management, waitlists, recurring bookings, and integration with telehealth for virtual sessions. The platform also includes a client portal for self-scheduling, reducing administrative burden and no-show rates in medical practices.
Pros
- Intuitive calendar with drag-and-drop scheduling and color-coding
- Automated email/SMS reminders and client self-scheduling portal
- Built-in HIPAA-compliant telehealth with unlimited sessions
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features and larger practices
- Limited customization options for non-behavioral health specialties
- Mobile app can be glitchy for complex scheduling tasks
Best For
Solo practitioners or small mental health and wellness practices needing integrated scheduling and telehealth.
Pricing
Starts at $29/month (Starter), $69/month (Essential), $99/month (Professional); annual billing discounts available, with add-ons for extras like texting.
Solutionreach
specializedPatient engagement platform that streamlines scheduling with automated reminders, online booking, and communication tools.
Intelligent multi-channel reminders and confirmations that adapt to patient preferences and history
Solutionreach is a patient engagement platform tailored for healthcare providers, featuring robust medical patient scheduling tools including online self-scheduling, automated reminders, and waitlist management. It integrates scheduling with communication channels like SMS, email, voice calls, and patient portals to streamline appointments and reduce no-shows. The software also supports EHR integrations and patient feedback tools to enhance overall practice efficiency.
Pros
- Multi-channel automated reminders significantly reduce no-shows
- Seamless EHR integrations for efficient workflows
- Comprehensive patient engagement tools beyond basic scheduling
Cons
- Pricing is custom and can be expensive for small practices
- Advanced features have a learning curve
- Limited standalone scheduling depth compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Mid-sized to large medical practices needing integrated patient communication and scheduling to boost efficiency and retention.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $250-$500 per provider per month depending on features and practice size.
Weave
specializedCommunication platform integrating patient scheduling, text reminders, payments, and reviews for dental and medical offices.
Unified patient communication inbox linked directly to the scheduling calendar for real-time texting and calls
Weave is an all-in-one patient engagement platform designed for medical practices, featuring robust scheduling tools that enable online appointment booking, automated reminders via text, email, and voice, and calendar management. It integrates scheduling seamlessly with payments, two-way messaging, and reputation management to reduce no-shows and streamline workflows. While versatile for small to mid-sized practices, it emphasizes communication over advanced enterprise-level scheduling customization.
Pros
- Intuitive online booking widget embeddable on practice websites
- Multi-channel automated reminders significantly reduce no-shows
- Strong integration of scheduling with payments and HIPAA-compliant messaging
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly and can be costly for smaller practices
- Limited advanced customization for complex recurring or group scheduling
- Overemphasis on communication features may overwhelm users seeking pure scheduling software
Best For
Small to medium-sized medical practices needing integrated scheduling with patient communication and payments.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at ~$500/month per provider/location, billed annually; includes core features with add-ons for advanced tools.
Conclusion
When evaluating the top medical patient scheduling software options, Athenahealth emerges as the top choice, offering a robust cloud-based platform with seamless online booking and automated reminders. AdvancedMD and Kareo follow strong, each bringing unique strengths—AdvancedMD with comprehensive practice management and Kareo with intuitive self-scheduling tools—ensuring there’s a standout solution for diverse practice needs. Together, these tools highlight the advancements in streamlining scheduling to better support both providers and patients.
Explore Athenahealth today to discover how its intelligent features can transform your scheduling process, reduce administrative burden, and enhance the patient experience.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison