As healthcare providers of all sizes adapt to a seemingly ever-changing set of rules and regulations, many are turning to the cloud for help. In fact, healthcare industry spending on cloud-based technology is expected to reach $150 billion by 2014 according to a Gartner Group study.
With healthcare’s move toward cloud computing gaining steam, providers need to be aware of the right questions to ask prospective health IT vendors before making a commitment.
So let’s go over some key talking points to discuss before choosing a new cloud-based EHR or practice management system.
What to Ask an About
Security – Contrary to what some believe, cloud-based EHRs and practice management systems are usually safer than their client-server counterparts. But this depends on the individual vendor. CareCloud, for instance, exceeds HIPAA standards with 256-bit SSL file encryption, protecting your data against security breaches.
Up Time – Because the perfect technology solution doesn’t exist, your potential cloud-based software provider should be available when problems arise. Ask how the vendor handles outages and the average response time for software issues.
Data Control – It’s essential to know what a prospective vendor will do with your data. Will they mine your patient information with the intention of selling it? Also, if you ever feel the need to switch vendors, will it be difficult to transfer your data?
References – Don’t just rely on testimonial videos. Ask to speak with current customers who run a similar practice. Positive third-party validation will make a final decision far less frightening.
Cost – Without the need to install hardware, cloud-based software solutions have far lower starting costs than traditional client-server technologies. CareCloud’s software-as-a-service (SaaS) model allows us to charge a low monthly rate.
Accessibility – Accessing your data remotely is one of the primary benefits of cloud-based software. But if you’re software only has the capability to view data via one type of web-browser this benefit is severely diminished. Your software should be accessible on all major browsers like Explorer, Chrome, FireFox and Safari.
Cloud computing provides many benefits for both large and small providers. Small practices receive the technological capabilities usually only afforded to enterprise-level clients, while larger organizations get the benefit of near-infinite system scalability.
So, no matter what type of cloud-based solution your practice is looking for, make sure to ask the right questions. It’ll help you choose the best cloud-based solution for your practice.
If you’d like to find out why our cloud-based EHR and PM solutions are second to none, please contact us at 1-877-342-7517 or hello@carecloud.com.
