Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epic Systems - Comprehensive EHR platform featuring MyChart patient portal for seamless appointment scheduling, registration, and access to health records.
- 2#2: athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and practice management software with robust patient engagement tools for scheduling, check-ins, and communication.
- 3#3: Oracle Health (Cerner) - Enterprise health IT solution offering HealtheLife patient portal and advanced scheduling for streamlined access and registration.
- 4#4: Phreesia - Digital patient intake platform that automates check-ins, forms completion, insurance verification, and payments at the point of access.
- 5#5: NextGen Healthcare - Ambulatory EHR with patient portal supporting online scheduling, registration, and secure messaging for efficient access management.
- 6#6: eClinicalWorks - EHR and practice management system with healow patient portal enabling self-scheduling, telehealth, and access to records.
- 7#7: AdvancedMD - Cloud practice management software providing patient scheduling, online booking, and registration tools for improved access.
- 8#8: Relatient - Patient experience platform focused on self-scheduling, reminders, and intake to optimize access and reduce no-shows.
- 9#9: Solutionreach - Patient communication platform with online scheduling, reminders, and feedback tools to enhance access and retention.
- 10#10: Zocdoc - Online marketplace enabling patients to discover providers, book appointments instantly, and manage access to care.
Tools were ranked based on a focus on robust functionality (including scheduling, portal integration, and intake automation), consistent quality, user-friendly design, and strong value, ensuring they stand out in performance and practicality.
Comparison Table
Patient access software is vital for optimizing healthcare operations, from appointment management to patient registration, and evaluating key platforms helps identify the best fit for diverse needs. This comparison table examines top solutions including Epic Systems, athenahealth, Oracle Health (Cerner), Phreesia, NextGen Healthcare, and more, outlining features, strengths, and use cases to guide informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epic Systems Comprehensive EHR platform featuring MyChart patient portal for seamless appointment scheduling, registration, and access to health records. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 2 | athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and practice management software with robust patient engagement tools for scheduling, check-ins, and communication. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Oracle Health (Cerner) Enterprise health IT solution offering HealtheLife patient portal and advanced scheduling for streamlined access and registration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 4 | Phreesia Digital patient intake platform that automates check-ins, forms completion, insurance verification, and payments at the point of access. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | NextGen Healthcare Ambulatory EHR with patient portal supporting online scheduling, registration, and secure messaging for efficient access management. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | eClinicalWorks EHR and practice management system with healow patient portal enabling self-scheduling, telehealth, and access to records. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | AdvancedMD Cloud practice management software providing patient scheduling, online booking, and registration tools for improved access. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Relatient Patient experience platform focused on self-scheduling, reminders, and intake to optimize access and reduce no-shows. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Solutionreach Patient communication platform with online scheduling, reminders, and feedback tools to enhance access and retention. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Zocdoc Online marketplace enabling patients to discover providers, book appointments instantly, and manage access to care. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
Comprehensive EHR platform featuring MyChart patient portal for seamless appointment scheduling, registration, and access to health records.
Cloud-based EHR and practice management software with robust patient engagement tools for scheduling, check-ins, and communication.
Enterprise health IT solution offering HealtheLife patient portal and advanced scheduling for streamlined access and registration.
Digital patient intake platform that automates check-ins, forms completion, insurance verification, and payments at the point of access.
Ambulatory EHR with patient portal supporting online scheduling, registration, and secure messaging for efficient access management.
EHR and practice management system with healow patient portal enabling self-scheduling, telehealth, and access to records.
Cloud practice management software providing patient scheduling, online booking, and registration tools for improved access.
Patient experience platform focused on self-scheduling, reminders, and intake to optimize access and reduce no-shows.
Patient communication platform with online scheduling, reminders, and feedback tools to enhance access and retention.
Online marketplace enabling patients to discover providers, book appointments instantly, and manage access to care.
Epic Systems
enterpriseComprehensive EHR platform featuring MyChart patient portal for seamless appointment scheduling, registration, and access to health records.
MyChart patient portal with AI-driven features like predictive scheduling and virtual waiting rooms for superior patient engagement.
Epic Systems offers a comprehensive suite of patient access software within its flagship Epic EHR platform, including modules like Cadence for scheduling and registration, OpTime for perioperative workflows, and MyChart for patient self-service portals. It enables seamless patient intake, insurance verification, appointment management, check-in processes, and real-time eligibility checks across large-scale healthcare enterprises. The system integrates deeply with clinical workflows, ensuring data flows effortlessly from access to care delivery.
Pros
- Unmatched integration with full EHR ecosystem for end-to-end workflows
- Scalable for massive enterprises with millions of patient encounters annually
- Advanced interoperability via Care Everywhere for cross-provider data sharing
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation (often 2-3 years)
- High customization costs and dependency on Epic consultants
- Limited flexibility for small practices due to enterprise focus
Best For
Large hospitals, health systems, and academic medical centers requiring robust, integrated patient access at enterprise scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with upfront implementation costs often exceeding $100M for large deployments, plus annual subscriptions based on beds/users (typically $500K-$10M+ yearly).
athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management software with robust patient engagement tools for scheduling, check-ins, and communication.
Real-time eligibility checking and automated revenue cycle tools that minimize claim denials
Athenahealth's athenaOne platform is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR and revenue cycle management solution with robust patient access features, including online scheduling, digital intake forms, insurance eligibility verification, and a patient portal for self-service. It automates front-office workflows to streamline patient registration, appointment reminders, and payments, reducing no-shows and administrative overhead. Ideal for ambulatory care, it integrates seamlessly with clinical tools for a unified practice management experience.
Pros
- Seamless integration of patient scheduling, billing, and EHR for efficient workflows
- Advanced automation for insurance verification and appointment reminders
- Strong patient engagement via customizable portal and mobile app
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature density
- Higher pricing that may strain smaller practices
- Limited customization options without additional vendor support
Best For
Mid-sized to large ambulatory practices needing an all-in-one integrated patient access and EHR system.
Pricing
Subscription-based pricing starts at around $419 per provider per month, scaling with users and features, plus implementation fees.
Oracle Health (Cerner)
enterpriseEnterprise health IT solution offering HealtheLife patient portal and advanced scheduling for streamlined access and registration.
HealtheLife patient portal with self-service scheduling, bill pay, and real-time eligibility checks integrated across the Oracle Health ecosystem
Oracle Health (formerly Cerner) is an enterprise-grade electronic health record (EHR) platform with comprehensive patient access software capabilities, including appointment scheduling, online registration, insurance verification, check-in/kiosk support, and patient portals via HealtheLife. It integrates front-office patient access workflows seamlessly with clinical, financial, and revenue cycle management systems to streamline operations in large healthcare environments. The solution supports high-volume patient interactions with features like self-scheduling, mobile access, and automated eligibility checks.
Pros
- Deep integration with EHR and revenue cycle for end-to-end workflows
- Scalable for large hospitals with high patient volumes
- Advanced automation like AI-assisted scheduling and eligibility verification
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- Lengthy and expensive implementation process
- High ongoing costs not ideal for smaller practices
Best For
Large hospitals and health systems needing robust, integrated patient access tied to full EHR functionality.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $1M+ upfront implementation plus $500K-$5M+ annual subscriptions based on size and modules.
Phreesia
specializedDigital patient intake platform that automates check-ins, forms completion, insurance verification, and payments at the point of access.
Integrated payment orchestration with reimbursement protection guarantees
Phreesia is a comprehensive patient access platform designed to streamline intake, check-in, payments, and engagement for healthcare providers. It enables digital self-service through kiosks, mobile apps, and online portals where patients complete forms, verify insurance, and pay copays before visits. The software integrates with EHRs and practice management systems to automate workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and improve revenue cycle efficiency.
Pros
- Robust insurance eligibility verification and payment collection at point-of-service
- Strong patient engagement tools like reminders and telehealth integration
- HIPAA-compliant with deep EHR integrations for seamless data flow
Cons
- Custom pricing can be opaque and volume-dependent
- Implementation requires staff training and hardware setup
- Relies heavily on patient digital literacy for full adoption
Best For
Mid-to-large healthcare practices seeking to digitize front-office operations and maximize upfront collections.
Pricing
Custom subscription-based pricing per provider or location, plus transaction fees for payments (typically $1-3 per visit plus percentage of collections).
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseAmbulatory EHR with patient portal supporting online scheduling, registration, and secure messaging for efficient access management.
NextGen Patient Experience platform with unified self-service portal for scheduling, payments, and virtual wait rooms
NextGen Healthcare provides a robust patient access solution as part of its integrated EHR and practice management platform, focusing on streamlining front-office workflows. Key functionalities include appointment scheduling, online patient self-service portals, insurance eligibility verification, and secure payment processing. It supports efficient patient intake, check-in kiosks, and real-time notifications to reduce no-shows and improve access across ambulatory practices.
Pros
- Deep integration with EHR for seamless data flow
- Advanced scheduling with automation and reminders
- Strong compliance tools and interoperability standards support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Customization can be complex and time-consuming
- Pricing may strain smaller practices
Best For
Mid-sized to large ambulatory practices needing integrated patient access with comprehensive EHR capabilities.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $299–$599 per provider/month plus implementation fees; enterprise pricing customized.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseEHR and practice management system with healow patient portal enabling self-scheduling, telehealth, and access to records.
Healow Open Access scheduling, allowing patients to book real-time available slots across multiple providers and locations.
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive EHR and practice management platform that excels in patient access through its Healow patient portal and mobile app, enabling online scheduling, secure messaging, and access to health records. It supports features like appointment reminders, telehealth integration, and automated patient check-in to streamline front-office workflows. Designed for ambulatory practices, it facilitates seamless patient engagement while integrating with billing and clinical tools.
Pros
- Robust Healow patient portal with high adoption rates and mobile accessibility
- Advanced scheduling tools including waitlists, reminders, and online booking
- Integrated telehealth and secure messaging for efficient patient communication
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated user interface for some modules
- Reported performance lags during peak usage
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Mid-sized ambulatory practices needing an integrated EHR with strong patient engagement and scheduling capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $449+ per provider per month depending on practice size and modules selected.
AdvancedMD
enterpriseCloud practice management software providing patient scheduling, online booking, and registration tools for improved access.
AdvancedCheck-In kiosks and mobile self-service for contactless patient registration and payments
AdvancedMD is a cloud-based EHR and practice management platform with robust patient access features, including online appointment scheduling, secure patient portals, and digital check-in kiosks. It streamlines front-office workflows by enabling self-service patient registration, eligibility verification, and automated reminders to reduce no-shows. Integrated with billing and telehealth, it supports efficient patient intake and engagement for medical practices of varying sizes.
Pros
- Comprehensive patient portal for self-scheduling and secure messaging
- Strong integration with EHR, billing, and eligibility checks
- Mobile app support for on-the-go patient access and reminders
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full customization
- Higher pricing with custom quotes required
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response
Best For
Mid-sized medical practices seeking an integrated patient access solution with EHR capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing; typically starts at $400-$700 per provider/month depending on modules and practice size.
Relatient
specializedPatient experience platform focused on self-scheduling, reminders, and intake to optimize access and reduce no-shows.
Universal digital intake and payments embedded across all patient touchpoints for frictionless self-service
Relatient is a comprehensive patient access platform designed for healthcare providers, offering tools for online scheduling, digital intake forms, secure messaging, payments, and patient portals. It integrates seamlessly with major EHR systems like Epic and Cerner to streamline front-office operations and reduce administrative burdens. The solution emphasizes patient self-service through web and mobile channels, helping to minimize no-shows and improve overall access efficiency.
Pros
- Robust online scheduling and automated reminders that significantly reduce no-shows
- Strong EHR integrations for seamless workflows
- Comprehensive patient engagement tools including messaging and payments
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller practices
- Initial setup and customization require significant time and support
- Reporting features lack advanced analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized medical practices and specialty groups looking for an all-in-one solution to automate patient access and front-office tasks.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $250-$600 per provider per month depending on modules and practice size; includes implementation fees.
Solutionreach
specializedPatient communication platform with online scheduling, reminders, and feedback tools to enhance access and retention.
AI-powered two-way texting with EHR integration for real-time patient-provider conversations
Solutionreach is a patient engagement and communication platform tailored for healthcare providers to enhance patient access and retention. It provides tools like online scheduling, automated appointment reminders via text, email, IVR, two-way texting, digital check-in and forms, and reputation management. The software integrates with major EHRs such as Epic, Cerner, and Athenahealth to streamline workflows and reduce no-shows.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-channel communication reduces no-shows by up to 30-50%
- Strong EHR integrations for seamless data flow
- Robust analytics and reporting for patient engagement insights
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small practices
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited self-service options for basic users
Best For
Mid-sized to large specialty practices seeking to optimize patient communication and retention.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $250-$500 per provider per month depending on features and volume.
Zocdoc
specializedOnline marketplace enabling patients to discover providers, book appointments instantly, and manage access to care.
Real-time appointment booking synced directly with provider calendars
Zocdoc is a patient-facing platform that enables users to search for doctors and specialists by location, specialty, insurance, and availability, facilitating instant online booking of appointments. It features verified patient reviews, provider photos, and real-time calendar integration for seamless scheduling. The service also sends reminders and supports easy rescheduling or cancellation, primarily focusing on simplifying access to primary care and specialist visits.
Pros
- Intuitive search with insurance filtering and real-time availability
- Verified reviews and ratings from actual patients
- Free for patients with mobile app convenience
Cons
- Limited to providers who subscribe and list on the platform
- No deep integration with personal health records or telehealth in all cases
- Occasional discrepancies in provider availability or confirmation emails
Best For
Patients who need quick, on-demand booking for in-person doctor appointments without managing portals or records.
Pricing
Free for patients; healthcare providers pay monthly subscription fees starting around $250 per provider.
Conclusion
This review highlights tools that transform patient access, with Epic Systems leading as the top choice—boasting a robust platform that integrates scheduling, portal access, and record management seamlessly. athenahealth and Oracle Health (Cerner) stand out as strong alternatives, each offering unique strengths in patient engagement and enterprise-scale solutions to suit diverse practice needs. Together, these tools redefine efficient, patient-centric care access.
Take the first step toward optimizing your practice's patient access by exploring Epic Systems—its intuitive design and comprehensive features can help streamline operations and enhance the patient experience.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison