EHR system buyers are most likely replacing
The number of buyers replacing existing EHR software has increased by 59 percent since 2014, according to the findings of a survey conducted by EHR comparison group Software Advice.
The company annually surveys U.S. buyers and this year randomly selected 385 interactions during the first quarter of 2015. More efficient patient-monitoring and better customization for individual practices were the most sought after functionalities. Other top-requested functionalities are patient tracking, customizable templates and regulatory compliance.
Billing is the top-requested application for the highest percentage of EHR buyers at 45 percent. Software Advisors speculates this could be due to the upcoming transition to ICD-10 codes, as 92 percent of buyers do billing in-house.
Of those dissatisfied with their current EHR system, the most common reason was faulty or cumbersome systems.
The company suggests buyers consider the following questions to avoid replacing EHR software:
- How will the product's design impact practice workflow?
- What kinds of customizations is the system capable of supporting?
- How long has the vendor been around?
- Will the system enable EHR meaningful use attestations?