The healthcare industry continues to evolve rapidly, and Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems have become central to delivering high-quality, efficient, and personalized care. These systems streamline documentation, improve coordination, reduce errors, and empower providers with data to make better clinical decisions.
With a vast array of EHR software solutions on the market, selecting the right one can be daunting. This comprehensive guide highlights the 10 best EHR software systems for healthcare providers in 2025, including an in-depth look at StoriiCare, a standout platform for long-term and social care environments.
What is an EHR System?
An Electronic Health Record (EHR) system is a digital version of a patient’s paper chart. EHRs are real-time, patient-centered records that make information available instantly and securely to authorized users. These systems typically include:
- Patient demographics
- Medical history
- Medications
- Diagnoses
- Treatment plans
- Immunization dates
- Allergies
- Lab and test results
The best EHR software not only stores this data but also supports clinical workflows, integrates with other systems (e.g., billing, telehealth), and complies with data privacy regulations like HIPAA.
What Makes a Great EHR Software?
Before diving into the top solutions, here are key features to consider when evaluating EHR platforms:
- Ease of use: Intuitive interface for fast adoption
- Customization: Tailored to specialty or care environment
- Interoperability: Seamless integration with labs, imaging, pharmacies, and other providers
- Compliance: Meets HIPAA and regional regulations
- Patient engagement tools: Portals, messaging, and appointment booking
- Reporting and analytics: Insights for improving care quality and operational efficiency
- Support and training: Accessible customer service and onboarding
Top 10 EHR Software Systems for Healthcare Providers
- StoriiCare
Best for: Community Based, long-term, and social care providers
StoriiCare is an intuitive and purpose-built platform designed specifically for care providers working in social care, adult day programs, assisted living, and other long-term care settings. Unlike generic EHR systems, StoriiCare focuses on improving both care delivery and resident engagement.
Key Features:
- Digital care plans with customizable templates
- Family portal with updates and multimedia sharing
- Activity and wellbeing tracking
- Billing, Compliance and audits with instant reports
Offline access for mobile caregivers
- Cerner (Oracle Health)
Best for: Mid- to large-sized providers
Owned by Oracle, Cerner offers robust EHR capabilities with deep integration across departments. It is widely used in hospitals and ambulatory settings.
Key Features:
- Real-time analytics
- Interoperability with government and public health systems
- Integrated revenue cycle management
- Mobile charting
Cons: Can be complex to configure and maintain.
- Allscripts (Veradigm)
Best for: Ambulatory and specialty practices
Allscripts provides flexible solutions for small to medium healthcare providers. Its open architecture promotes integration and innovation.
Key Features:
- Customizable workflows
- Practice management tools
- Telehealth features
- Population health support
Cons: Some users report usability challenges and delayed updates.
- Athenahealth
Best for: Cloud-based practices and value-based care
Athenahealth is a cloud-based EHR platform that emphasizes interoperability and revenue cycle performance. It’s known for frequent updates and ease of use.
Key Features:
- Intuitive interface
- Patient engagement tools
- Real-time insights
- Extensive partner ecosystem
Cons: Can be expensive for small practices.
- eClinicalWorks
Best for: Small to mid-sized practices looking for cost-effective solutions
eClinicalWorks offers a versatile EHR and practice management suite with powerful customization and AI-driven documentation tools.
Key Features:
- Cloud and on-premise options
- Telehealth and e-prescribing
- Revenue cycle integration
- AI charting assistant
Cons: Mixed user reviews on support and complexity.
- NextGen Healthcare
Best for: Specialty practices and community health centers
NextGen delivers specialty-focused EHR solutions tailored to the unique needs of practices like behavioral health, pediatrics, and dental care.
Key Features:
- Mobile EHR access
- Integrated billing
- Predictive analytics
- Specialty-specific templates
Cons: Some users report performance issues and slow updates.
- Kareo (now Tebra)
Best for: Independent practices and startups
Kareo, rebranded under the Tebra umbrella, offers a simplified EHR experience with cloud access and integrated billing.
Key Features:
- Patient self-scheduling
- Claims management
- Mobile-friendly design
- Free training resources
Cons: May lack depth needed for complex specialties.
- Practice Fusion
Best for: Budget-conscious small practices
Owned by Veradigm, Practice Fusion is a free, cloud-based EHR with basic functionality ideal for smaller clinics.
Key Features:
- Zero-cost model
- Easy setup and interface
- Integrated charting
- Partner integrations
Cons: Limited customization and support options.
- DrChrono
Best for: Mobile-first providers and Apple users
DrChrono is built with mobility in mind, offering native apps for iPads and iPhones with impressive usability and real-time data access.
Key Features:
- Voice recognition charting
- Online booking and intake
- Insurance eligibility checks
- Telehealth integration
Cons: Advanced features require paid plans.
- Epic Systems
Best for: Large hospitals and health systems
Epic is one of the most widely adopted EHR systems in the U.S. Known for its powerful capabilities and broad integration, Epic offers a unified platform that spans outpatient, inpatient, and specialty care.
Key Features:
- Extensive customization
- MyChart patient portal
- Population health tools
- Strong interoperability
- Mobile access for providers
Cons: Expensive and resource-intensive to implement, better suited for large-scale operations.
Why StoriiCare Stands Out:
- Person-centered care: Captures life stories, preferences, and emotional wellbeing
- Care coordination: Logs, handovers, alerts, and notes in one place
- Real-time reporting: Monitor care quality, staff performance, and incident logs
- Customizable: Modular features tailored to specific care environments
- Digital signage and calendars: Showcase daily activities and menus
Use Case Example:
A dementia care facility uses StoriiCare to manage medical needs, track participation in activities, and keep families closely involved through life story sharing and visual updates.
Cons: Not intended for acute medical practices; best suited for long-term and social care.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right EHR for Your Needs
The right EHR software depends on your practice size, specialty, care model, and long-term goals. While Epic or Cerner may be best for enterprise hospitals, smaller or specialized providers often benefit more from agile, tailored solutions like Athenahealth, DrChrono, or StoriiCare.
If you’re in the long-term care or social care sector, StoriiCare offers a fresh take on EHR systems—combining practical clinical tools with resident-centered features that improve both outcomes and experiences for families and staff.
Summary Table
EHR System – Best For – Key Feature
Epic – Large hospital systems – Unified care across departments
Cerner – Hospitals & public health – Real-time analytics
Allscripts – Specialty practices – Customizable workflows
Athenahealth – Cloud-based care models – Fast implementation & updates
eClinicalWorks – Cost-conscious mid-sized practices – AI-powered documentation
NextGen – Specialty clinics – Specialty-specific templates
Kareo (Tebra) – Independent clinics – Easy to use with integrated billing
Practice Fusion – Small practices – Free, simple, accessible
DrChrono – Mobile-first workflows – Apple integration
StoriiCare – Long-term & social care – Life stories, family portal, audits
Ready to Transform Your Care Setting?
If you’re a care provider focused on long-term, residential, or social care, now is the time to explore how StoriiCare can elevate your team’s performance and resident satisfaction.
Visit www.storiicare.com to learn more or request a free demo tailored to your facility’s needs.