Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise EHRs Through Several Key Criteria

Adopting cloud-based EHR systems is not just a passing trend but a substantial shift in how healthcare providers handle and access patient data. Market statistics highlight the increasing confidence in cloud-based solutions, making it a suitable time for medical practices to migrate. For instance, according to Brand Essence Market Research, the global market for cloud-based EHR is expected to reach an estimated $53 billion by 2027.

Therefore, today, we will discuss cloud EHR platforms by comparing them to on-premise tools and analyzing several real-life solutions prevalent in the market. So, let’s continue with the topic!

Deciphering the Choice

The choice between cloud-based and on-premise EHRs is influenced by various vital factors:

• Implementation Cost. Cloud-based systems usually have lower initial costs but may incur a higher Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over time. On-premise solutions involve higher upfront expenses but may result in lower annual costs.
• Time to Implement. Cloud EHRs can be set up quickly, while on-premise solutions often require a more extended setup period.
• Data Security and Privacy. Cloud-based systems are often perceived as more vulnerable to data breaches. On-premise solutions are considered more secure but require the organization to manage security protocols.
• Interoperability and Integration. Cloud EHRs are generally more compatible with other cloud systems and can be integrated with various apps more easily. On-premise solutions often face challenges in this area.
• Scalability. Cloud-based systems can be scaled effortlessly, while on-premise solutions may require additional extensions for scaling.
• Customization. EHR cloud-based systems offer limited customization options set by the vendor. On-premise solutions allow for extensive customization to meet the company’s specific needs.
• Data Safety and Backup. The vendor is usually responsible for data security and backups in cloud-based approaches. With on-premise solutions, the organization must plan for backups and disaster recovery.
• Support and Maintenance. Cloud vendors often provide quick and efficient IT support. On-premise solutions require hardware and in-house personnel for maintenance.
• Accessibility. Cloud-based EHRs require a stable internet connection and offer remote access. On-premise systems do not require constant internet connectivity but are not accessible remotely.
• Data Management. Cloud-based systems offer limited data management options. On-premise solutions allow centralized data control within the organization.

So, the decision between cloud-based and on-premise EHRs is complex, with each type having pros and cons that impact the healthcare facility’s performance and operational efficiency.

SPsoft experts have vast experience providing healthcare partners with the best possible EHR interoperability. Our team has performed over 60 successful integrations with Epic, Cerner, and AllScripts. The good news is that SPsoft's accelerator platform facilitates integration with any FHIR and HL7-based EHR. Write to me at [email protected] or fill out the contact form, and we will gladly assist you with your project.

Real-Life Examples of Cloud-Based EHR Systems

Here, we will explore seven cases of healthcare entities integrating cloud-based EHR systems.?

• Novant Health adopted Epic’s Virtustream Healthcare Cloud platform to enhance its existing EHR system, streamline operations, and free up engineering resources.
• Veterans Affairs (VA) shifted to a cloud-based electronic health record modernization (EHRM) system, facilitating the seamless transfer of 50TB of veterans’ health records.
• The Carter Clinic embraced Practice Fusion’s cloud EHR for customizability, customer support, and support for telehealth services, simplifying document management and improving behavioral health services.
• School District EHR implemented the cloud-based EduHealth software to address compliance challenges related to student medical information, introducing custom features to align student health data with state and CDC guidelines.
• CareCloud transitioned from physical data centers to the ClearDATA Healthcare Managed Cloud on AWS. They focus on innovation without compromising compliance or scalability and integrating new techs like Natural Language Processing (NLP) into EHRs.
• Practice Fusion offers a highly-rated EHR cloud-based system featuring a dashboard interface, customizable templates, and HIPAA-compliant communication tools, with positive user ratings reflecting favorable experiences.
• eClinicalWorks implemented a web-based EMR system with integrated practice management and patient engagement features. They received high customer ratings, and over half of users were classified as “Advocates” in a Reaction Data survey, indicating solid recommendations for the system.

These examples illustrate the diverse challenges and solutions in the healthcare sector, emphasizing the adaptability and effectiveness of cloud-based EHRs.

Wrap Up

The transformation of the EHR landscape is undeniable, with cloud technology leading the way in this evolution. Market projections and real-world implementations strongly indicate a clear shift towards adopting cloud-based EHR solutions. After all, it would be a great pleasure if you could share your experience working with cloud-based EHRs with me on LinkedIn or name the most effective platforms.?