Medical practices that are using server-based software solutions are usually inefficient and lagging behind in terms of security and data exchange options. In today’s world, it is fortunately easy to make a switch to a Cloud-Based EMR Software system. Switching will give the benefits of cost savings, improved interoperability, and scalability. According to a 2020 study hospitals are evaluating cloud-based software options as they are currently uncertain about the value their current healthcare IT software system brings.
On-premise EHR Software systems need a server, hardware, and software to be installed. Whereas cloud-based Electronic Medical Records (EMR) software systems enhance the accessibility of data round the clock using internet facilities. The new legislation in the United States is also encouraging healthcare organizations to migrate to the cloud due to interoperability and patient security options. It does make sense to go for cloud-based solutions due to the many advantages they offer to medical setups.
Migrating to a Cloud-Based EMR Software from a Client-Server System
Greater Affordability – When costs are rising and profit margins are diminishing due to the COVID-19 pandemic practices need to save on costs. When a cloud-based EHR software system is deployed it makes up for an affordable option as practices can skip on paying expensive hardware installation costs. Also with cloud-based software maintenance is handled by the software provider which results in additional cost savings.
IT Team can catch a Break – With on-premise software systems practices need to have an IT Team that needs to maintain and upgrade the software. Once cloud-based EMR Software solutions are used there’s no headache of configuring complicated systems. IT staff members can focus on other tasks as upgrades happen automatically.
A scalable option – Cloud-based solutions offer scalability for both large and small medical practices. The flexibility of software systems allows large practices to grow and meet the unique needs of independent practices.
Improved Security – As a healthcare organization patient security needs to be a top priority. Since 2020 healthcare cyber-attacks have doubled which requires an urgent need for sophisticated and encrypted technology. Cloud-based software systems offer improved security as compared to client-server systems. Cloud-based EHR Software systems follow security protocols and offer HIPAA compliance for the best privacy protection.
Enhanced Accessibility – With cloud-based EMR solutions providers can practice on the go, they can view patient data in real-time which provides a better opportunity to deliver high-quality care. Clinicians can view information from the comfort of their homes and don’t need to be tied up in offices to work. The easy accessibility to patient information ultimately enhance outcome levels which is the ultimate goal of healthcare.
Moving Ahead
It is a win-win situation to migrate to cloud-based software services. This could be the best conclusion if hospitals want to stay competitive and improve practice efficiency levels.