Making your decision
For most organizations, the decision between cloud-based or in-house software will likely come down to two factors: cost and reliability. For cost, while there is a slight difference depending on vendor in the amount of cost between in-house and cloud-based, the biggest difference is in the timing of cost. In-house software will require a larger upfront investment in hardware, software, and setup, whereas cloud-based systems require a much smaller up-front investment followed by the monthly subscription fee. Choosing which situation is best will vary for each organization.

When it comes to reliability, cloud-based systems have gained somewhat of a reputation for being less reliable over the years, but in practicality, that is not the case. If an organization has a reliable high-speed internet connection, issues with connectivity should be few and far between. That connectivity is not much of a consideration when it comes to in-house software, so for organizations that are in areas with subpar internet service, in-house might be better to avoid service interruption.
EHR software is important to a health care organization’s success, and it’s imperative that each organization choose the best method for accessing this software for its setup. There are a lot of factors to consider, but neither option is better than the other. It is purely up to the organization’s preference and circumstances. What is most important is for each organization to analyze its own situation and determine which method fits best, implementing a software that will enable a practice to run seamlessly and efficiently, while providing the best possible care to their patients.

About the author: Crystal Stanton is a digital marketing specialist at Henry Schein MicroMD.

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