Quick Overview
- 1#1: Practice Fusion - Free cloud-based EHR designed for small independent practices with charting, e-prescribing, and patient portal features.
- 2#2: Kareo - Integrated billing, practice management, and EHR platform tailored for independent practices to streamline revenue cycle.
- 3#3: CharmHealth - Affordable all-in-one EMR with scheduling, telehealth, and patient engagement tools for small practices.
- 4#4: DrChrono - Mobile-first iPad-optimized EHR with voice dictation, telehealth, and billing for ambulatory care.
- 5#5: AdvancedMD - Cloud-based EHR and practice management suite with robust scheduling, billing, and reporting for small to mid-sized practices.
- 6#6: Elation Health - Physician-designed EHR emphasizing clinical workflow efficiency and patient data accessibility for primary care.
- 7#7: athenaOne - Comprehensive cloud EHR with AI-driven insights, revenue cycle management, and interoperability for growing practices.
- 8#8: eClinicalWorks - Web-based EHR with patient engagement, telehealth, and population health analytics suitable for small groups.
- 9#9: SimplePractice - Streamlined EHR for behavioral health practices featuring notes, billing, and virtual sessions.
- 10#10: Amazing Charts - User-friendly EHR with customizable templates and strong usability ratings for solo and small practices.
Tools were evaluated based on functionality (including charting, billing, telehealth, and patient engagement), user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring they address the unique needs of small practices.
Comparison Table
Small practices seeking EMR software face diverse options; this comparison table breaks down leading tools like Practice Fusion, Kareo, CharmHealth, DrChrono, and AdvancedMD, highlighting key features, usability, and practical fit. Readers will gain actionable insights to identify the platform that aligns with their workflow and budget, ensuring informed, confident decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Practice Fusion Free cloud-based EHR designed for small independent practices with charting, e-prescribing, and patient portal features. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Kareo Integrated billing, practice management, and EHR platform tailored for independent practices to streamline revenue cycle. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | CharmHealth Affordable all-in-one EMR with scheduling, telehealth, and patient engagement tools for small practices. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | DrChrono Mobile-first iPad-optimized EHR with voice dictation, telehealth, and billing for ambulatory care. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | AdvancedMD Cloud-based EHR and practice management suite with robust scheduling, billing, and reporting for small to mid-sized practices. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Elation Health Physician-designed EHR emphasizing clinical workflow efficiency and patient data accessibility for primary care. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | athenaOne Comprehensive cloud EHR with AI-driven insights, revenue cycle management, and interoperability for growing practices. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | eClinicalWorks Web-based EHR with patient engagement, telehealth, and population health analytics suitable for small groups. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 9 | SimplePractice Streamlined EHR for behavioral health practices featuring notes, billing, and virtual sessions. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Amazing Charts User-friendly EHR with customizable templates and strong usability ratings for solo and small practices. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
Free cloud-based EHR designed for small independent practices with charting, e-prescribing, and patient portal features.
Integrated billing, practice management, and EHR platform tailored for independent practices to streamline revenue cycle.
Affordable all-in-one EMR with scheduling, telehealth, and patient engagement tools for small practices.
Mobile-first iPad-optimized EHR with voice dictation, telehealth, and billing for ambulatory care.
Cloud-based EHR and practice management suite with robust scheduling, billing, and reporting for small to mid-sized practices.
Physician-designed EHR emphasizing clinical workflow efficiency and patient data accessibility for primary care.
Comprehensive cloud EHR with AI-driven insights, revenue cycle management, and interoperability for growing practices.
Web-based EHR with patient engagement, telehealth, and population health analytics suitable for small groups.
Streamlined EHR for behavioral health practices featuring notes, billing, and virtual sessions.
User-friendly EHR with customizable templates and strong usability ratings for solo and small practices.
Practice Fusion
specializedFree cloud-based EHR designed for small independent practices with charting, e-prescribing, and patient portal features.
100% free e-prescribing with no per-prescription fees or limits
Practice Fusion is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) system tailored for small medical practices, providing essential tools like charting, e-prescribing, scheduling, and billing integration. It enables seamless patient data management, secure messaging, and compliance with meaningful use standards without any upfront costs. As a fully web-based solution, it allows access from any device, streamlining workflows for solo providers and small teams.
Pros
- Completely free core EHR functionality with no subscription fees
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface requiring minimal training
- Robust e-prescribing and lab integrations at no extra cost
- Cloud-based accessibility from any device with automatic updates
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options compared to premium EHRs
- Customer support primarily via email/tickets, which can be slow
- Some add-on services like advanced faxing incur separate fees
Best For
Ideal for solo practitioners and small independent practices seeking a cost-free, easy-to-implement EMR solution.
Pricing
Free for all core features including unlimited users, e-prescribing, and charting; optional paid add-ons for premium integrations.
Kareo
specializedIntegrated billing, practice management, and EHR platform tailored for independent practices to streamline revenue cycle.
Revenue Cycle Intelligence with AI-driven claims optimization and denial management
Kareo is a cloud-based EHR and practice management platform designed specifically for independent medical practices, offering integrated electronic health records, billing, scheduling, and patient engagement tools. It streamlines clinical documentation, revenue cycle management, and administrative tasks to help small practices operate efficiently without on-premise hardware. With customizable templates and robust analytics, Kareo supports a wide range of specialties while ensuring HIPAA compliance.
Pros
- Integrated EHR, practice management, and revenue cycle tools reduce the need for multiple vendors
- Cloud-based access with mobile apps for providers and patients
- Automated billing and claims scrubbing to maximize reimbursements
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons and per-provider fees
- Customer support response times vary, especially for non-enterprise users
- Initial setup and customization require significant time investment
Best For
Small independent practices seeking an all-in-one cloud solution for EHR, billing, and patient management without IT overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $140-$300 per provider/month for core EHR/PM (billed annually), plus 5-7% commission on collections for full revenue cycle management; custom quotes for enterprises.
CharmHealth
specializedAffordable all-in-one EMR with scheduling, telehealth, and patient engagement tools for small practices.
Seamless voice dictation and natural language processing for rapid, accurate charting
CharmHealth is a cloud-based EHR/EMR and practice management platform tailored for small to mid-sized medical practices, offering tools for charting, scheduling, billing, e-prescribing, and patient engagement. It provides ONC-certified interoperability, telehealth integration, and a patient portal to streamline workflows in ambulatory settings. The software emphasizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness, enabling quick adoption without extensive IT support.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal training required
- Affordable pricing with no hidden fees
- Strong telehealth and patient portal integration
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options
- Reporting features lack depth for complex analytics
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Ideal for solo practitioners or small independent practices seeking an easy-to-use, budget-friendly EMR without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Starts at $259/provider/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; Premium at $399 and Enterprise at $599, with a free trial available.
DrChrono
specializedMobile-first iPad-optimized EHR with voice dictation, telehealth, and billing for ambulatory care.
Native iPad-optimized charting with touch-friendly templates and real-time sync
DrChrono is a cloud-based EHR and practice management platform tailored for small to mid-sized medical practices, offering electronic charting, scheduling, billing, e-prescribing, and telehealth. It stands out with its mobile-first design, particularly optimized for iOS devices like iPads, enabling providers to manage patient records on the go. The software supports customization for various specialties and integrates with labs, pharmacies, and payment processors for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Exceptional iOS mobile app for tablet-based charting and workflows
- Integrated revenue cycle management with billing and claims processing
- Strong telehealth and patient engagement tools
Cons
- Higher pricing that may strain very small or solo practices
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations and templates
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Small ambulatory practices prioritizing mobile accessibility and comprehensive practice management in specialties like primary care or pediatrics.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$200/provider/month (billed annually), plus one-time setup fees and add-ons for telehealth or advanced features.
AdvancedMD
enterpriseCloud-based EHR and practice management suite with robust scheduling, billing, and reporting for small to mid-sized practices.
Advanced Revenue Cycle Management with automated claims scrubbing and denial prevention for optimal reimbursements
AdvancedMD is a comprehensive cloud-based EMR and practice management software tailored for medical practices, including small ones, offering integrated electronic health records, scheduling, billing, and patient engagement tools. It emphasizes revenue cycle management with features like automated claims processing and denial management to maximize reimbursements. The platform supports scalability, telehealth, and interoperability with labs and other systems, making it suitable for growing small practices.
Pros
- Robust integrated billing and revenue cycle management with high clean claims rates
- Cloud-based with mobile access and strong interoperability
- Customizable templates and reporting for efficient workflows
Cons
- Higher pricing that may strain very small practices
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- Mixed customer support experiences with occasional delays
Best For
Small practices needing a scalable, feature-rich all-in-one EMR with superior billing tools and willing to invest in setup and training.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $400-$500 per provider per month for core EMR/PM features, with add-ons for advanced modules.
Elation Health
specializedPhysician-designed EHR emphasizing clinical workflow efficiency and patient data accessibility for primary care.
Adaptive charting that learns from provider habits for ultra-fast, template-free documentation
Elation Health is a cloud-based EHR platform designed specifically for independent primary care practices, emphasizing clinician efficiency and patient-centered care. It provides intuitive charting tools, e-prescribing, patient summaries, scheduling, and integrated billing to minimize administrative burdens. The system prioritizes reducing burnout with a clean, customizable interface that supports solo providers and small teams.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface with minimal clicks for charting and documentation
- Tailored workflows for primary care, including smart patient summaries and e-prescribing
- Strong focus on clinician well-being, reducing administrative overhead
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain very small or budget-conscious practices
- Limited customization and integrations compared to enterprise-level EMRs
- Less ideal for specialties outside primary care
Best For
Solo primary care physicians or small independent practices prioritizing ease of use and efficient patient care over extensive customization.
Pricing
Starts at $359 per provider per month for core EHR, with add-ons for billing ($99+/month) and telehealth; no per-patient fees.
athenaOne
enterpriseComprehensive cloud EHR with AI-driven insights, revenue cycle management, and interoperability for growing practices.
AI-enhanced revenue cycle management that automates coding and denial prevention for superior reimbursements
athenaOne by athenahealth is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR and practice management platform tailored for ambulatory practices, including small ones, offering electronic health records, scheduling, billing, and patient engagement tools. It leverages automation and interoperability to streamline clinical workflows, optimize revenue cycles, and provide actionable analytics. Ideal for small practices seeking scalability without on-premise hardware.
Pros
- Powerful revenue cycle management with high claim acceptance rates
- Seamless interoperability via athenahealth network and standards like FHIR
- Robust analytics and reporting for performance insights
Cons
- Higher cost structure compared to budget EMRs
- Steep initial learning curve and implementation time
- Customizable interface can feel overwhelming for very small teams
Best For
Small practices needing advanced billing automation and scalability for growth.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$140/user/month, often $400+/provider/month with revenue cycle services included.
eClinicalWorks
enterpriseWeb-based EHR with patient engagement, telehealth, and population health analytics suitable for small groups.
Healow patient engagement ecosystem with open-access portal, app, and TV integration for seamless patient-provider communication
eClinicalWorks is a comprehensive cloud-based EHR and practice management platform designed for ambulatory practices, including small offices, offering electronic health records, scheduling, billing, e-prescribing, and telehealth. It integrates patient engagement tools like the Healow portal for secure messaging and appointment requests, along with population health management and interoperability with labs and devices. The system emphasizes scalability, allowing small practices to expand without major overhauls.
Pros
- Robust feature set with strong interoperability and telehealth integration
- Scalable for growing practices with customizable workflows
- Advanced patient engagement via Healow app and portal
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, outdated interface
- Higher costs with potential add-on fees
- Inconsistent customer support and occasional system glitches
Best For
Small practices in need of a full-featured, scalable EMR that can handle growth into medium-sized operations.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$449 per provider/month, plus setup fees and optional modules (custom quotes required).
SimplePractice
specializedStreamlined EHR for behavioral health practices featuring notes, billing, and virtual sessions.
Integrated telehealth with built-in video, scheduling, and billing in a HIPAA-compliant environment tailored for therapy sessions
SimplePractice is a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) and practice management software tailored for behavioral health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, and counselors in small practices. It provides integrated tools for appointment scheduling, secure telehealth sessions, customizable documentation, billing, and insurance claims processing. The platform also features a client portal for self-scheduling and secure communication, helping streamline administrative workflows to focus on patient care.
Pros
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface with minimal learning curve
- Robust telehealth and client portal for seamless virtual care
- Strong insurance billing and claims management with high clean claim rates
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features and additional users
- Limited customization options for documentation templates
- Primarily optimized for behavioral health, less ideal for general medical practices
Best For
Solo practitioners or small teams in mental health and wellness fields needing an all-in-one platform for telehealth, billing, and documentation.
Pricing
Starts at $29/user/month (Essentials), $69 (Professional), $99 (Plus); add-ons include $0.35-$1.25 per claim and e-prescribing fees.
Amazing Charts
specializedUser-friendly EHR with customizable templates and strong usability ratings for solo and small practices.
Single-screen, paper-like charting that enables documentation in seconds without multiple clicks or tabs
Amazing Charts is an EHR/EMR software tailored for small to mid-sized medical practices, featuring an intuitive, physician-designed interface that mimics paper charting for rapid documentation and workflow efficiency. It provides core functionalities including scheduling, e-prescribing, billing, patient portals, and meaningful use compliance tools. The system prioritizes usability and speed, making it suitable for busy solo providers or small teams seeking minimal disruption to daily operations.
Pros
- Exceptionally user-friendly interface with quick charting
- Strong customer support and training resources
- Reliable performance for core EMR tasks like eRx and scheduling
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and analytics features
- Integration with some third-party systems can be challenging
- Pricing escalates with add-ons and higher user counts
Best For
Solo practitioners or small primary care practices prioritizing ease of use and fast adoption over extensive customization.
Pricing
Starts at around $449 per provider per month (billed annually), plus one-time implementation fees of $2,000-$5,000 and optional add-ons.
Conclusion
A deep dive into the reviewed EMR tools shows solutions catering to varied needs, with Practice Fusion leading as the top choice, offering a free, cloud-based package with robust charting, e-prescribing, and patient portal features. Kareo and CharmHealth stand out as strong alternatives: Kareo excels in integrated billing and revenue cycle management, while CharmHealth impresses with affordability and an all-in-one set of tools. Each offers unique strengths, but Practice Fusion emerges as the leading option for small independent practices.
Take the first step toward streamlining your practice—explore Practice Fusion today to leverage its free, comprehensive features and enhance both patient care and operational efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison