Epic vs. Nextech EMR

Epic is not priced or designed for the small provider offices. However, if current Epic customers are willing, they have the ability to bring those smaller groups onboard through Community Connect. This allowsthe smaller group to have the full benefit of Epic without the hardware and software costs associated with owning Epic.

Incentivized

I have and will continue to recommend MDI (a Nextech EMR system) to other ophthalmology/retina practices through the AAOE etalk. MDI was developed by an ophthalmologist specific for ophthalmologists and the specific needs they have which makes it very easy to use. Uploading the images is easy. We are also able to share information with other practices on the system.

Incentivized

• There are doctors' notes templates with prepopulated fields in them. This saves a lot of time.
• Epic sends medication orders to pharmacies electronically so that we do not have to call. This saves a lot of time.
• Epic has a Secure Chat feature via which we can send HIPAA protected messages to any employee with the patient's name and record attached.
• It has a PDMP link. We can look up what controlled medications such as opiates patients have been prescribed and by whom.
• It links to MyChart, which is a platform via which patients can look up their own information without them having to call the doctors. This saves a lot of time.

Incentivized

• Integration with our PM system was done in 2009 and they built the bridge between the two companies.
• Drawings and testing images are uploaded easily.
• The ability to keep track of reporting for CMS is very helpful.

Incentivized

• Visual Updates: While Epic is constantly improving the user experience, there are a few features that still need a design refresh. While this does not effect functionality, it does have an impact on user perception.
• Ordering: While placing an order for a physician is very easy, a few changes to the workflow could improve the experience for physicians.

Incentivized

• I would like to be able to close charts correctly for staff who are no longer with us as an administrator

Incentivized

You should invest time into taking a training class before using Epic, but once you get the hang of it the usability features are endless! My favorite part about Epic is how it is automated and "trained" to catch user errors that would typically be missed in normal documentation/charting. This ensures accuracy and eliminates errors.

Incentivized

The initial training was good but would have been even better had I been more familiar with the system before taking it. I found learning how to deal with Epic while working in the field at the same time was a (pardon the pun) Epic learning curve. I really think there should be a scribe who does the data entry and others can focus on what they do best.

Incentivized

Epic gives extensive customization options in terms of utility and view. I have found this to be highly useful and efficient EHR as compared to other EHRs we use in our organization.

CUSTOMER SERVICE is above par where NexGen had what we called no-customer service. Ease of use without having the make our own templates constantly. Upgrades are seamless and no added cost.

Incentivized

• It must have had a positive impact as things get done quicker, leading to easier billing/coding. It must be saving a lot of money and time. I am not aware of a better product.
• Employee satisfaction
• Efficiency

Incentivized

• Being able to fax notes immediately to referring doctors and PCPs is very important. It saves on time and paper/toner not having to print out and then fax.
• Not having to develop and/or print out the pictures/FAs and having them upload immediately so doctor can treat at the same visit.

Incentivized