Electronic health record (EHR) systems have transformed the landscape of healthcare documentation and patient care. As these systems evolve, nurses will continue to have an important role in ensuring accurate data entry, patient safety, and effective communication across the care team. Whether you're a new nurse or a seasoned professional, understanding how EHR systems work and what they offer is crucial to your practice.
What is an EHR system?
An EHR system is a digital version of a patient’s chart. It provides a real-time, patient-centered record that makes information instantly and securely available to authorized users. This record usually contains a patient’s medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory test results.
More than just a replacement for paper charts, EHR systems help streamline workflows, support clinical decision-making, and improve care coordination across different providers and settings. They often include tools for charting, e-prescribing, order entry, billing, and reporting.
EHR system list
There are numerous EHR systems available that have their own set of features, user interfaces, and customization options. Some of the most well-known and widely used EHR systems include:
- Epic
- Oracle Health
- Meditech
- Veradigm
- Athenahealth
- eClinicalWorks
- NextGen Healthcare
- Greenway Health
- Kareo
- Practice Fusion
These systems may vary depending on the size and specialty of the healthcare organization. For example, Epic and Cerner are often used in large hospital systems, while platforms like Kareo or Practice Fusion may be better suited for smaller practices.
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Learn MoreTop EHR systems
While rankings can vary depending on the criteria used (such as user satisfaction, interoperability, or features), the following EHR systems are often recognized as top performers in healthcare:
- Epic: Frequently ranked number one for overall performance and customer satisfaction, Epic is known for its robust features, interoperability, and adaptability across large health systems.
- Oracle Health: A close competitor to Epic, Oracle Health is widely used in hospitals and offers comprehensive tools for clinical and administrative functions.
- Athenahealth: Popular in outpatient and ambulatory care settings, Athenahealth is cloud-based (where data is hosted and managed on remote servers) and offers strong support for billing, scheduling, and patient engagement.
- Meditech: Known for its affordability and modular design, Meditech is a popular choice among small to mid-sized hospitals and rural facilities.
- eClinicalWorks: Especially strong in the ambulatory care space, eClinicalWorks provides integrated practice management and population health tools.
What nurses need to know about EHR systems
As a nurse, you interact with EHR systems daily, often more than any other role. Understanding how to navigate and optimize these systems is necessary for delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality care. Consider these components when using EHR systems:
- Documentation accuracy: EHRs rely on accurate, timely charting. Incomplete or incorrect entries can lead to communication gaps, medical errors, or legal risks.
- Workflow integration: Be familiar with how EHRs integrate into your unit’s workflow — from medication administration to handoffs and discharge planning.
- Clinical decision support: Many EHRs include alerts and reminders to help identify potential issues such as drug interactions or abnormal lab results. Knowing how to interpret and respond to these alerts is crucial.
- Interprofessional communication: EHRs often serve as the primary communication tool between physicians, pharmacists, and other team members. Clear, concise documentation helps ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Data privacy and security: Adhere to HIPAA and institutional policies when accessing or sharing patient information. Proper use of passwords, role-based access, and logging out of systems is a must.
- Ongoing training: EHR systems are updated regularly, and facilities may switch vendors or customize features. Participate in ongoing training and stay informed about changes that affect documentation or workflow.
The role of EHR systems will only expand as healthcare continues to advance. Nurses are at the forefront of this digital transformation, acting as key contributors to the accuracy, integrity, and usability of patient records.
By embracing EHR technology and remaining adaptable through continuous learning, nurses can help ensure that these systems truly enhance patient outcomes and streamline clinical workflows. Whether working in a large hospital or a small clinic, understanding and effectively using EHR systems isn’t just a technical skill, it’s a vital part of providing excellent, patient-centered care.
