Tech & Innovation in Healthcare

Question: Our practice is trying to decide on whether to stick with our server-based EHR or move to a cloud vendor. Can you explain the difference between the two options?

Indiana Subscriber

Answer: Cloud service providers offer options for storing protected health information (PHI) and adapting EHRs to fit the scale and scope of any organization, which can be extremely beneficial to cash-strapped practices. In addition, cloud technologies come with a multitude of advantages and generally offer more technical latitude than client-server systems. For example, with a client-server system, space is needed for the physical hardware. Extra staff are often required to ensure the system runs smoothly, and the data is secure. However, with a cloud storage system, practices offload most of those responsibilities to a vendor, who provides software and file storage from elsewhere, beyond the practice’s walls.

In the past, server-based systems were the norm. But, now due to their many advantages, cloud systems have become more popular, particularly for smaller organizations. For one, they are less expensive. Cloud-based EHRs are more versatile and can be accessed at any moment from any location. There is also a reduced risk of them being breached since there is no physical hardware to steal. And, vendors tend to upgrade systems overnight, so staff rarely wait for the go-ahead to resume work.

If you are looking into an upgrade or feel dissatisfied with what you’re running now, check out these four advantages to moving to a cloud-based system:

• Access: The cloud can be accessed by providers and staff anywhere, anytime. This type of EHR makes short work of data input and actually helps with the coordination of care.
• Privacy and security: The cloud protects and stores patient and practice data securely and safely. The human and physical accidents that cause client-server EHRs to shut down are non-existent with cloud technology.
• Cost: There are extra costs associated with maintaining private servers and back-up systems that are located at the office for client-server operations. However, cloud-based options are more efficient and flexible with the information stored in the cloud versus internally.
• Flexibility: Staff come and go. Mandates change. The nice thing about a cloud-based EHR is that it is easy to add users and expand the program.