Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epic Systems - Comprehensive EHR platform with MyChart patient portal enabling secure access and management of personal health records.
- 2#2: Oracle Health - Integrated EHR solution formerly Cerner, providing advanced patient record management and patient-facing portals.
- 3#3: athenahealth - Cloud-based EHR and patient engagement platform for seamless health record access and interoperability.
- 4#4: eClinicalWorks - EHR system with robust patient portal for record sharing, telehealth, and self-management tools.
- 5#5: Veradigm - EHR and population health platform enabling patient record exchange and personalized health insights.
- 6#6: NextGen Healthcare - Ambulatory EHR with OpenECG patient portal for managing and viewing health records online.
- 7#7: MEDITECH - EHR system offering patient portals for secure access to medical records and care coordination.
- 8#8: Practice Fusion - Free cloud-based EHR with patient portal for viewing and sharing health records.
- 9#9: Greenway Health - EHR and practice management software with patient engagement tools for record management.
- 10#10: DrChrono - Mobile-first EHR platform with patient portal for accessing and updating health records.
Tools were evaluated on key metrics including feature robustness (e.g., patient portal capabilities, interoperability), clinical functionality, ease of use for both providers and patients, and overall value, ensuring relevance and performance for diverse healthcare environments.
Comparison Table
Patient health record software is vital for optimizing healthcare workflows, connecting clinical and administrative tasks seamlessly. This comparison table features leading tools like Epic Systems, Oracle Health, athenahealth, eClinicalWorks, Veradigm, and more, breaking down their key strengths to guide users in choosing the right solution for their practice. Readers will learn about functionality, usability, and scalability to make informed decisions for their healthcare needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epic Systems Comprehensive EHR platform with MyChart patient portal enabling secure access and management of personal health records. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Oracle Health Integrated EHR solution formerly Cerner, providing advanced patient record management and patient-facing portals. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | athenahealth Cloud-based EHR and patient engagement platform for seamless health record access and interoperability. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | eClinicalWorks EHR system with robust patient portal for record sharing, telehealth, and self-management tools. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Veradigm EHR and population health platform enabling patient record exchange and personalized health insights. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | NextGen Healthcare Ambulatory EHR with OpenECG patient portal for managing and viewing health records online. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | MEDITECH EHR system offering patient portals for secure access to medical records and care coordination. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Practice Fusion Free cloud-based EHR with patient portal for viewing and sharing health records. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 9 | Greenway Health EHR and practice management software with patient engagement tools for record management. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | DrChrono Mobile-first EHR platform with patient portal for accessing and updating health records. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.4/10 |
Comprehensive EHR platform with MyChart patient portal enabling secure access and management of personal health records.
Integrated EHR solution formerly Cerner, providing advanced patient record management and patient-facing portals.
Cloud-based EHR and patient engagement platform for seamless health record access and interoperability.
EHR system with robust patient portal for record sharing, telehealth, and self-management tools.
EHR and population health platform enabling patient record exchange and personalized health insights.
Ambulatory EHR with OpenECG patient portal for managing and viewing health records online.
EHR system offering patient portals for secure access to medical records and care coordination.
Free cloud-based EHR with patient portal for viewing and sharing health records.
EHR and practice management software with patient engagement tools for record management.
Mobile-first EHR platform with patient portal for accessing and updating health records.
Epic Systems
enterpriseComprehensive EHR platform with MyChart patient portal enabling secure access and management of personal health records.
Care Everywhere interoperability, enabling secure sharing of health records across thousands of unaffiliated organizations nationwide.
Epic Systems, through its MyChart patient portal, delivers a robust Patient Health Record (PHR) solution integrated with its leading Electronic Health Record (EHR) platform used by major hospitals worldwide. Patients can securely access their full medical history, lab results, medications, immunizations, and visit summaries anytime via web or mobile app. It enables seamless communication with providers, appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and family proxy access, enhancing patient engagement and care coordination.
Pros
- Unparalleled integration with provider EHR systems for real-time, accurate data access
- Advanced features like secure messaging, telehealth, and symptom triage tools
- Proven scalability and reliability serving millions of patients across top U.S. health systems
Cons
- Availability limited to patients of Epic-using providers
- Occasional interface complexity for less tech-savvy users
- High implementation costs passed indirectly to healthcare systems
Best For
Patients of large hospitals and health systems seeking a comprehensive, provider-integrated PHR with enterprise-grade security and functionality.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model for healthcare providers (not direct-to-consumer); custom pricing starts at millions annually based on size and modules, with no patient fees.
Oracle Health
enterpriseIntegrated EHR solution formerly Cerner, providing advanced patient record management and patient-facing portals.
FHIR-enabled interoperability with AI clinical decision support for unified, actionable patient records across ecosystems
Oracle Health, formerly Cerner, offers a comprehensive patient health record (PHR) solution through its patient portal integrated with the Millennium EHR platform, allowing patients to securely access, view, and manage their health data including lab results, medications, allergies, and visit summaries. It supports interoperability standards like FHIR for data exchange across providers and leverages Oracle's cloud infrastructure for scalability and AI-driven insights. Designed primarily for healthcare organizations, it empowers patients with tools for appointment scheduling, secure messaging, and personalized health analytics.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade security and HIPAA compliance with robust data encryption
- Seamless FHIR interoperability for cross-provider data sharing
- AI-powered analytics and predictive insights for proactive health management
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity for smaller practices
- Patient interface can feel less intuitive compared to consumer apps
- Customization requires significant IT resources and vendor support
Best For
Large healthcare systems and hospitals providing integrated PHR access to patients within their EHR ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with users and modules—contact sales for quotes.
athenahealth
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and patient engagement platform for seamless health record access and interoperability.
The unified athenaOne platform with a single database integrating clinical records, billing, and patient portal for real-time, seamless data access.
athenahealth is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) platform that includes robust patient health record (PHR) functionalities through its integrated patient portal, allowing patients to securely access medical records, test results, medications, and immunization history. Providers benefit from seamless interoperability with practice management and revenue cycle tools, enabling efficient data sharing and patient engagement. It supports population health management and telehealth, making it a comprehensive solution for modern healthcare practices focused on patient-centered record access.
Pros
- Highly integrated patient portal for easy record access, appointment scheduling, and secure messaging
- Strong interoperability and compliance with HIPAA, ONC certification, and population health analytics
- Cloud-based reliability with 99.9% uptime and mobile app support for patients and providers
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High pricing that may not suit small practices or solo providers
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large healthcare practices needing an all-in-one EHR with advanced patient health record access and engagement tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; core EHR starts at around $419 per provider per month, with additional fees for modules like patient engagement.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseEHR system with robust patient portal for record sharing, telehealth, and self-management tools.
Healow app's Open Access scheduling, allowing patients to book appointments without provider login
eClinicalWorks provides a comprehensive Patient Health Record (PHR) solution primarily through its Healow patient portal and mobile app, enabling patients to securely access, view, and manage their health data from integrated EHR systems. Key functionalities include real-time viewing of lab results, medications, allergies, immunization records, and visit summaries, along with appointment scheduling and secure provider messaging. It supports telehealth visits and device integrations for a holistic patient engagement experience.
Pros
- Robust mobile app (Healow) for on-the-go access to health records
- Seamless integration with provider EHR for real-time data syncing
- Strong patient engagement tools like secure messaging and telehealth
Cons
- Interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming for some users
- Heavy reliance on provider-side implementation and adoption
- Reported occasional downtime and sync issues
Best For
Patients of mid-to-large practices seeking an integrated, feature-rich PHR tied to their provider's EHR system.
Pricing
Free for patients; provider-side EHR subscription starts at ~$400-600 per provider/month, plus setup fees.
Veradigm
enterpriseEHR and population health platform enabling patient record exchange and personalized health insights.
Universal EHR interoperability that pulls records from multiple providers into one patient-controlled view
Veradigm, formerly Allscripts, provides Patient Health Record (PHR) capabilities primarily through its FollowMyHealth patient portal, allowing patients to access and manage their health data from connected EHR systems. It aggregates medical records, lab results, medications, allergies, and visit summaries into a single, secure online platform. Patients can view trends, share records with providers, and engage in secure messaging or telehealth.
Pros
- Strong interoperability with major EHR systems for comprehensive data aggregation
- HIPAA-compliant security and mobile app for on-the-go access
- Features like secure messaging and appointment scheduling enhance patient-provider communication
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated and less intuitive for non-tech-savvy users
- Functionality heavily dependent on provider integration and adoption
- Limited advanced analytics or personalization options compared to consumer PHR apps
Best For
Patients affiliated with healthcare providers using Veradigm-integrated systems who need a reliable, provider-backed PHR for managing records across visits.
Pricing
Free for patients; enterprise pricing for healthcare providers starts at custom quotes, often per-user or per-facility subscription models.
NextGen Healthcare
enterpriseAmbulatory EHR with OpenECG patient portal for managing and viewing health records online.
Open Platform API ecosystem for deep third-party integrations and custom workflows
NextGen Healthcare provides an enterprise-grade electronic health record (EHR) platform with a robust patient portal that functions as a Patient Health Record (PHR) solution, allowing patients to securely access, view, and manage their health data online. Key capabilities include viewing lab results, medications, allergies, immunization history, appointment scheduling, and secure messaging with providers. The system supports FHIR-based interoperability for seamless data exchange across healthcare ecosystems, while offering mobile app access for on-the-go patient engagement. It is ONC-certified and scalable for various practice sizes.
Pros
- Strong interoperability and FHIR support for data sharing
- Comprehensive patient portal with mobile app and secure messaging
- Advanced analytics and population health management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High implementation and customization costs
- Pricing lacks transparency and is quote-based only
Best For
Mid-to-large healthcare practices and enterprises needing scalable EHR-integrated PHR with robust compliance and analytics.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $300-$700 per provider/month plus implementation fees starting at $50,000+.
MEDITECH
enterpriseEHR system offering patient portals for secure access to medical records and care coordination.
Expanse Patient Portal with AI-powered clinical decision support integrated directly into patient-accessible records
MEDITECH offers a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) platform with robust patient portal capabilities, enabling patients to access, manage, and share their personal health records securely online. The system integrates medical history, lab results, medications, allergies, and appointment scheduling, supporting interoperability with other healthcare systems. Designed primarily for hospitals and health systems, it facilitates patient engagement while ensuring compliance with standards like HIPAA and FHIR.
Pros
- Extensive interoperability and data integration across healthcare ecosystems
- Strong security features and regulatory compliance tools
- Scalable for large enterprises with customizable patient portals
Cons
- Steep learning curve for end-users due to complex interface
- High implementation and customization costs
- Slower adaptation to mobile-first patient experiences compared to consumer apps
Best For
Large hospitals and health systems seeking an integrated EHR with reliable patient health record access for their populations.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing, typically subscription-based starting at $500+ per user/month with one-time implementation fees in the millions for full deployments.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree cloud-based EHR with patient portal for viewing and sharing health records.
Free, fully certified cloud-based EHR with an integrated patient portal for record access
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) platform designed primarily for healthcare providers to manage patient health records, including charting, e-prescribing, scheduling, and billing. It includes a patient portal that allows patients to access their health records, communicate with providers, and view lab results, bridging some patient health record (PHR) functionalities. As a free solution, it's popular among small practices for its accessibility and certification for meaningful use standards.
Pros
- Completely free core EHR functionality with no subscription fees
- Intuitive web-based interface requiring no installation
- Patient portal enabling secure access to health records and messaging
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and reporting options
- Customer support primarily ticket-based for free users
- Fewer integrations with third-party systems compared to premium competitors
Best For
Small practices and solo providers seeking a cost-free EHR with basic patient health record sharing capabilities.
Pricing
Free for core features; optional premium support, training, and advanced services start at $149/month per provider.
Greenway Health
enterpriseEHR and practice management software with patient engagement tools for record management.
Seamless bidirectional integration between provider EHR and patient portal for real-time record updates
Greenway Health offers a comprehensive suite of EHR and practice management software, including patient portal features that function as a Patient Health Record (PHR) solution. Patients can access their health records, view test results, request appointments, and communicate securely with providers through the integrated portal. It emphasizes interoperability and compliance with ONC certification standards, making it suitable for ambulatory care settings.
Pros
- Strong interoperability with labs and other systems
- ONC-certified for meaningful use
- Integrated patient engagement tools including telehealth
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Customer support response times can be slow
- Pricing lacks transparency without a demo
Best For
Small to mid-sized ambulatory practices seeking an all-in-one EHR with reliable patient record access.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $300-$500 per provider/month, depending on modules and practice size; requires quote.
DrChrono
specializedMobile-first EHR platform with patient portal for accessing and updating health records.
Native iPad app with handwriting recognition for direct charting and record updates
DrChrono is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) and practice management platform that centralizes patient health records, enabling secure storage, access, and updates for healthcare providers. It supports comprehensive features like customizable charting, e-prescribing, patient portals for record sharing, and integrated telehealth. Designed for efficiency, it stands out with strong mobile capabilities, particularly its native iPad app for on-the-go record management.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app with native iOS support for seamless record access
- Customizable templates and integrated billing streamline patient record workflows
- Robust patient portal enhances record sharing and engagement
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small practices or solo providers
- Advanced reporting features require higher tiers or add-ons
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to medium-sized medical practices seeking a mobile-first EHR with strong patient record management.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$200/provider/month for core features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Conclusion
The reviewed patient health record software varied in focus—some emphasized comprehensive EHR management, others cloud scalability or interoperability—but all excelled in enhancing care coordination. Leading the pack, Epic Systems rose to the top, celebrated for its robust MyChart portal and seamless personal health record management. Oracle Health and athenahealth followed as strong alternatives, with Oracle’s integrated EHR suite and athenahealth’s cloud-based flexibility catering to distinct operational needs.
To unlock efficient, patient-centric health record management, begin with Epic Systems—its intuitive portal and secure tools prove a standout for both providers and individuals seeking control over their health data.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison