Nextech EMR vs. Practice Fusion

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

The best scenario is a small non-profit clinic who needs a great EMR but cannot afford one like EPIC. I might also recommend this to colleagues who are starting a small business because I think PF would be a good, easy, and more affordable to get up and running. I think this EMR makes less sense in the setting of large academic institutions who need lots of easily manipulable data and a huge amount of support.

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

• Document storage- You can upload documents and attach them to specific patients. As well as flag documents that need to be signed, and assign them to specific doctors.
• Charting- Very detailed integration for charting.
• Reporting- We really enjoy the reports we can pull from within the software.

Incentivized

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

Incentivized

• Have Physician Assistant as a provider status.
• Make the notes section of each patients account displays towards the top of page and not the bottom.

Incentivized

In my opinion and experience, they have a lack of customization so you have to constantly create hacks to make their system work for your practice.

We always get a return call within the time stated. There are many available topics on the forum and it is often easy to find the issue you are seeking more information on. When we have tried the live chat feature we have been satisfied with the timeliness and response.

Incentivized

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

NextGen is hard to use as far as medical records. Practice Fusion is user friendly. There is a great knowledge base for questions asked. Practice Fusion takes all the guess work out of the day.

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

• PRO -- I know now what I need in an EMR/EHR
• CONS -- They have overcharged me and it has cost me money
• CONS-- They have disregarded my legal rights which makes me unsure of keeping confidential info in their systems and it will cost me money to switch
• CONS--They have cost me money with the time I've wasted to follow up on my own tickets that they refuse to follow up with