Your Guide to Cloud EMR Software (2021)

Recent studies show that cloud EMR software deployment is one of the fastest-growing trends in the health IT industry. The adoption of these cloud technologies has become a reliable way to ensure data security. And cut costs of maintaining health recording systems in healthcare setups while improving information accessibility. And reducing the load on servers deployed in-house. Healthcare practitioners incorporate this technology to automate daily work processes, provide customization in care plans. And improve practice efficiency to deliver the best patient care possible. 

Despite the continuous increase in cloud computing deployment rates, healthcare organizations are still left with a huge number of questions concerning how a cloud-based system works. In this guide, we will try to address the most common ones. Continue reading to learn more!

What do you need to know about a cloud EMR software solution?

A cloud-based health recording solution is flexible, cost-effective. And intuitive system for maintaining patient health information in the cloud rather than on servers deployed at your medical facility. It offers streamlined tasks, data interoperability, improved scalability, and reduced costs while maintaining data integrity and security. These technologies only require a computer connected to an internet connection for users to access their software. Most cloud EHR systems are designed with input from medical providers, clinicians. And practice management teams to make functionalities closer to what healthcare setups. And medical practitioners require in in-patient settings. 

The differences: Cloud-based vs. On-premise EHR system

The key difference is that cloud computing technologies don’t need practices. And hospital organizations to maintain servers on the premises, monitor backup procedures. And generate resiliency protocol to continue using services and accessing the stored data.

What features should you look for in a cloud-based EHR software?

When using a cloud EHR, you should look for the following features:

• Data security and integrity
• Simple user interface
• Automation of administrative operations
• Patient portal
• Custom templates
• Decision support
• Patient engagement tools
• Reporting and population health
• Electronic communication
• Order management

Benefits of a cloud-based Electronic Health Records system

Along with improving practice efficiency and information accessibility, there are other benefits for users who opt for cloud-based health IT products. 

Avoid IT costs

Hardware is difficult to purchase, maintain, and license. Healthcare organizations that go for on-premise deployment need secured rooms with cooling elements and extra ventilation. However, a cloud health recording solution can reduce the costs by large margins because it does not require the typical installation process. That being said, medical practices that choose to invest in cloud technologies won’t have to spend a significant amount on hardware, server space, on-site work, etc. 

More control over your data

If you want complete autonomy over your critical data, look no further. A cloud-based electronic health records software gives you more control over your data than a traditional server-based EMR system. These cloud technologies have reduced the barriers to modernization and customization of health IT products. You can also have a platform that supports collaboration that is universally recognized so you can share and disseminate healthcare knowledge. 

Remote access

Another highly useful aspect attributed to cloud-based healthcare IT products is that they allow clinicians to update patient data from multiple locations. You can access clinical data from any remote location via the internet on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop. This boosts overall productivity and supports effective decision-making by providing a mobile platform for those who want to deliver care on the go. 

Scalability

Cloud EMR systems are becoming increasingly popular among users because of their ability to grow and expand as per the requirements of an organization. This deployment option is suitable for facilities that may anticipate scaling up to additional service lines in the future. It enables users to ass new staff members or workstations by simply adding new user accounts. In addition, these cloud technologies are designed to be accessed within a site via an internet connection, unlike on-premises software that must be reconfigured to accommodate new staff members or workstations. 

Disadvantages of a cloud-based EHR

While the benefits of cloud health recording solutions outweigh the drawbacks, there are a few challenges of cloud deployment that must be addressed. Let’s find out what those are!

Reliability

Reliability can be a concern for users who opt for cloud-based deployment methods. These systems rely heavily on an internet connection to update and retrieve patient data. This is why having low bandwidth capacity from the carriers in your network could adversely affect your practice performance and the ability to utilize the cloud platform.

Security

Security can be another concern for practices with cloud-based health recording systems. Therefore, it is crucial for you to make sure that the product you opt for is HIPAA-compliant so you can protect sensitive patient information within your organization. You must also comply with your obligations to secure patient data confidentiality under HIPAA. 

How can you neutralize barriers to Cloud EHR systems?

Here’s what you can do:

Use Private Connections

In most cases, you can resolve the reliability issue by making sure that you have private connections with enterprise-grade bandwidth in a redundant configuration. So, in the event you happen to lose one circuit, the other one comes online and you can continue operating and accessing the stored data. 

Cost of a cloud-based EHR system

The cost of cloud-based EHR software differs according to the type of features supported. Most vendors offer EMR systems with cloud deployment options on a ‘per user per month’ model; however, some of them charge per encounter or record. According to a recent study report, the five-year TCO for a cloud health recording software is approximately $58,000 with upfront costs of $33,000.

Final thoughts

Already revolutionizing the healthcare industry, cloud EMR software systems offer practices of all sizes and specialties many advantages in cost savings, data security, and accessibility. There may be a few disadvantages of these solutions, but those can be easily addressed if you do the necessary leg-work. For more information, you can reach out to our team of experts at FindEMR.