If you are considering buying an EHR system, you might wonder which is better for your practice: Epic versus Cerner. Both providers have their strengths and weaknesses. Here's a look at the pricing structure and how they connect with other EHR systems. In addition, read on to find out why Epic is a better choice.
Customer Size
When it comes to EHR software, Epic versus Cerner has a lot to offer. For starters, both companies offer a variety of specialty modules that focus on specific areas of medicine. Epic has 24 specialty modules that are specifically developed for a particular specialty, while Cerner offers more than 50. Both systems are highly customizable and can share patient information securely across health systems.
Cerner is growing its customer base in community hospitals, while Epic is gaining ground in larger provider organizations. However, last year, Cerner's share of large hospitals dropped. This is in stark contrast to a five-year growth in Epic's hospital EMR system's users.
Epic continues to gain market share, and it now has a 29% share of the U.S. hospital market. In contrast, Cerner lost five large customers but continues to hold a 26% market share. This means that both companies can compete in the same space.
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, there are two main factors to consider when comparing Epic versus Cerner. Both systems offer a similar degree of functionality but each one is slightly more expensive. The cost of Epic depends on how many users you plan to have, whether you need 24/7 support, and the features you want.
Cerner touts its affordability over Epic. This advantage could help it attract smaller hospitals in the United States. In the past, Cerner lost hospital clients due to revenue cycle issues but gained community hospitals with lower pricing. This strategy seems to be paying off as Cerner is gaining market share.
Epic has a higher price tag than Cerner, but the latter is a more comprehensive platform with more specialty modules. For small practices, Cerner may be a better fit, while Epic is better for hospitals and larger health systems. However, neither company is willing to release specific pricing data. However, recent news about the size of contract deals suggests that Epic is slightly more expensive than Cerner.
Connecting to other EHRs
Connecting to other EHRs is a big question for many providers. In a recent Senate HELP Committee hearing, the CEO of DirectTrust and Senior Advisor to the American Academy of Family Physicians outlined why EHR interoperability is more important than EHR vendor competitiveness. Ultimately, it will be up to healthcare providers and collaborative data standardization bodies to push product developers in the right direction.
Epic and Cerner both provide EHR solutions that allow physicians to easily connect with other systems. Both have a large number of specialty modules. Epic caters to large medical institutions, large practices, and even labs. However, it has recently opened up its functionality to smaller practices. For instance, it launched its Sonnet EHR, a smaller version of its flagship Epic product.
EHR interoperability is becoming increasingly important in the healthcare industry. It allows providers to access the same records, making treatment decisions more data-driven. Additionally, it makes insurance reimbursement more efficient and connects referring doctors. Connecting to other EHRs with Epic is the easiest option because the software manufacturer is dedicated to maintaining data interoperability standards.
Connecting to Other EHRs Makes Epic Better than Cerner
Connecting to other EHRs is a key feature of Epic. This feature allows you to access and analyze data from various sources, including other EHRs, so you can make better treatment decisions. It can also help you optimize your insurance reimbursement, connect with referring doctors, and streamline clinical workflows. However, it can be expensive to implement.
Cerner and Epic both have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to connectivity. Cerner's interface is more pleasing to many users, while Epic may be more difficult for some. If you want a user-friendly interface and the ability to automate tasks, Epic might be the better choice. Connecting to other EHRs will also help you share patient data.
Although Epic does not have many integrations with third-party systems, this feature does make it a better EHR than Cerner. The Epic Direct protocol enables it to connect with third-party EHRs. Epic also has the Happy Together feature, which lets providers access patient data from multiple EHRs.
