Web Based EMR Software Is More Versatile Than Local Server Based Solutions
The EMR software can be of two types; one is web-based and the other is local server based. The healthcare professional can opt for any of these two alternatives. But, before preferring one over the other, it’s better to know the cost benefit ratio of web based EMR software and the local server based EMR software.
The first is hardware cost: in web based solutions the hardware needed is a workstation, but the local server based solutions need a local machine that functions as a server, a data backup system, a router and a workstation. Next comes the software cost; in web based solutions the cost is minimal (often as a low, monthly subscription) whereas in local server based module the minimum cost starts from $4,000.00 and may go upto $20,000.00 per year.
The next factor is the startup cost: in web based solutions it is minimal, while in a local server based solutions it is high. It is high because, the initial cost of hardware and software and the cost of hiring IT professional for setting up the server, router and the interface. The next component is the per user cost. It’s none for the web based solutions but, the local server module usually has an additional per user charge.
A subsequent component is the update charges: the web based solutions usually offer free updates, while the local server model solutions normally charge an update fee per user. Consider the charge for claims filing, the web based solutions offer unlimited claim filing, but the local server based solutions charges per claim filed. Therefore, the web based EMR software solution is much less expensive than the local server based server solutions.
A critical aspect is your purchase commitment: The purchase commitment for the web based solution is flexible; it can be cancelled at any time; while the local server based option doesn’t offer this flexibility. Their contracts are long term with a penalty cause for early termination.
The next factor to consider is scalability: the web based solutions are modular and can be added onto at a future date; the local server based solutions are rigid and inflexible. Therefore, the web based solutions are more flexible and cost effective.