Cerner Vs. eClinicalWorks: A Comprehensive Comparison
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The efficiency of an electronic health record (EHR) system is a critical factor in enhancing the clinician experience. However, according to KLAS Arch Collaborative research, only 46% of clinicians feel their EHR systems effectively support this efficiency. This gap is a key factor behind clinician dissatisfaction and burnout.
Cerner and eClinicalWorks are two leading healthcare IT platforms that offer advanced solutions to address EHR usability challenges, deliver value-based care, and improve the overall clinician experience.
In this comparison, we will evaluate their features, pricing structures, and user feedback to help you understand which platform can best support your practice.
Cerner, now part of Oracle Health, is a comprehensive EHR and practice management solution designed for both acute and ambulatory care organizations. The software helps providers streamline clinical workflows, improve patient data access, and optimize administrative workflows through its integrated platform. It offers a highly interoperable system that allows users to access and exchange data across different systems and organizations.
The vendor was awarded Best in KLAS 2024 for acute care EMR. Additionally, Cerner EMR has recently experienced significant growth in the small hospital market, with more facilities adopting its scalable EHR solutions to meet specific clinical and operational needs.
eClinicalWorks is another top-rated EHR solution for acute and ambulatory care facilities across multiple specialties. The platform empowers providers to enhance clinical workflows, improve patient engagement, and optimize revenue cycle management. It offers a powerful suite of tools that support telehealth, population health management, and patient communication.
Notably, independent practices with 2–10 physicians reported a remarkable 29% year-on-year increase in satisfaction with eClinicalWorks’ EHR and practice management solutions, earning the vendor recognition as the most improved physician practice product in the 2024 KLAS report.
Feature | Cerner | eClinicalWorks |
Patient Engagement Tools | Basic patient engagement solutions for secure messaging, appointment scheduling, and patient education | Extensive range of tools, including patient portal, healow Apps, and self-scheduling options |
Medical Billing | Clinically driven RCM that integrates patient data to streamline scheduling, registration, and billing processes | Flexible RCM options, including self-service or full-service models. Claim scrubbing and a 98% first-pass acceptance rate |
Practice Management | Advanced practice management tools for scheduling, patient accounting, reporting, and workflow optimization | AI-powered practice management features focusing on efficiency and workflow automation |
Interoperability | Extensive integration capabilities utilizing standards, network connections, and open APIs to facilitate data exchange | Robust ecosystem for integrations, including PRISMA, eEHX for health information exchange, and an Open Interoperability (EOI) platform |
Customization | Highly customizable templates, notes, and workflows tailored to specific practice and business needs | Customizable forms, questionnaires, and workflows for various specialties |
Mobile Access | iOS and Android mobile apps with access to billing info and real-time updates | iOS and Android mobile apps with ambient listening technology to streamline workflows |
AI-Powered Tools | AI-powered digital assistant with generative AI and voice capabilities to automate manual tasks | Comprehensive range of AI tools, including Sunoh.ai, image AI, AI assistant, and AI automation |
Support | Multiple support channels, including phone, eService, and Oracle Health Community | Basic customer support via phone, email, support portal, and online resources |
Pricing | Flexible pricing models based on practice size, type, and feature requirements | Tiered pricing structure suitable for solo and group practices |
Security and Compliance | Robust security with technical, administrative, and physical controls. HIPAA-compliant with SOC 1, SOC 2 Type II attestations, and ISO certification | HIPAA-compliant and has appropriate safeguards in place to safeguard protected health information (PHI) |
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Pros
Cons
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Pros
Cons
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Cerner's pricing details have not been disclosed publicly. The cost of the software varies based on several factors, including the size of the facility and specific implementation needs. According to Becker's Health IT, some smaller hospitals in Alaska and California are paying under $10 million to install the EHR software.
In contrast, eClinicalWorks offers transparent pricing options that cater to various practice needs. The vendor’s pricing structure is as follows:
- EHR Only – $449 per month per provider
- EHR with Practice Management – $599 per month per provider
- RCM as a Service – 2.9% of practice collections
Ultimately, the choice between eClinicalWorks and Cerner depends on whether your practice prioritizes clear, fixed pricing or is open to negotiating costs based on the specific needs and scale of the operation. You can also refer to our EHR pricing guide for a detailed breakdown of costs and to explore options that best suit your practice's budget.
Users appreciate Cerner’s ability to customize pre-built charts for specific complaints. Many find it easy to navigate, which makes appointment scheduling and registration management straightforward. The system is recognized for its user-friendliness and simplicity.
However, some users report that too many clicks are required to complete tasks efficiently, and customer service is often criticized for not being as responsive as desired.
In contrast, eClinicalWorks reviews highlight its broad user base and strong performance with specific features like Sunoh.ai. For example, this feature helped South Shore Family Practice cut documentation time by 50%. Another clinic achieved 99% accuracy in capturing patient conversations, which made their documentation process much smoother.
Users find it quick and easy to enter notes and appreciate the thorough training and support. While it may not offer as many features as Cerner, it works well for outpatient practices.
Cerner and eClinicalWorks are both solid options for EMR systems, each suited to different types of healthcare practices. Cerner is ideal for larger organizations and hospitals that need comprehensive features and extensive customization. eClinicalWorks, on the other hand, works well for smaller outpatient practices that require a user-friendly interface and strong customer support to improve daily operations.
While Cerner might be more popular with larger healthcare setups, eClinicalWorks is rapidly rising in the ranks with improved functionality.
A recent survey by Tebra shows that 32% of independent practice providers would not recommend their current EHR due to usability and customization problems. It highlights the importance of choosing a system that matches your practice's specific needs.
To make an informed choice, use Software Finder to explore detailed comparisons, read expert reviews, and evaluate EMR features to find the best system for your practice.
