The 7 Best EHR Systems for Private Practice in 2025

Selecting the right Electronic Health Record system can transform your private practice operations or become your biggest daily frustration. After analyzing feedback from hundreds of practicing physicians, therapists, and healthcare administrators, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect EHR solution for your practice.

Whether you’re running a solo medical practice, a growing therapy clinic, or a multi-provider group, the right EHR should streamline your workflows, improve patient care, and reduce administrative burden. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best EHR for your private practice.

Best EHR for Your Private Practice: How To Choose

Before diving into specific EHR recommendations, understanding your practice’s unique needs is crucial for making the right choice. The EHR that works perfectly for a solo therapist will likely frustrate a 50-provider internal medicine group.

Evaluate Your Practice’s Core Requirements

Start by assessing your practice size, specialty focus, and growth plans. Solo practitioners often prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness, while larger practices need robust scheduling, billing integration, and user management capabilities. Mental health practices require specialized features like treatment plan templates and outcome measurement tools that general medical EHRs may lack.

Consider your current workflows and pain points. If your staff spends hours on documentation, prioritize systems known for efficient charting. If billing is a constant headache, look for EHRs with strong revenue cycle management or integrated billing services.

Essential vs Nice-to-Have Features

Every modern EHR should include basic functionality like electronic prescribing, appointment scheduling, patient portals, and HIPAA compliance. These aren’t differentiators anymore; they’re table stakes.

The real decision factors are advanced features: integrated telehealth, custom template creation, population health tools, patient engagement features, and mobile accessibility. Determine which advanced features directly impact your practice’s efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Budget and Total Cost Considerations

EHR pricing varies dramatically, from under $200 per provider monthly to percentage-based models that can cost thousands. Factor in implementation costs, training expenses, and potential productivity losses during the transition period.

Consider the total cost of ownership over 3-5 years, not just the monthly subscription fee. A slightly more expensive EHR that eliminates the need for separate billing, telehealth, or patient communication tools often provides better long-term value.

Specialty-Specific Requirements

Mental health practices need features like treatment planning, outcome measurements, group session scheduling, and specialized billing codes. Internal medicine practices benefit from chronic care management tools, population health registries, and robust lab integrations.

Multi-specialty practices face the challenge of finding systems that serve diverse needs without overwhelming any single specialty with irrelevant features.

7 Best EHR Softwares for Private Practices

1. Arkenea Custom EHR Development (Best for Tailored Solutions)

For practices with unique workflows or specific requirements that off-the-shelf solutions cannot address, Arkenea, an EHR software development company, offers custom EHR development services. Unlike one-size-fits-all systems, Arkenea creates tailored EHR solutions designed specifically for your practice’s needs.

Why Choose Custom Development:

• Perfect alignment with existing workflows and preferences
• No unnecessary features cluttering the interface
• Complete control over functionality and user experience
• Scalable architecture that grows with your practice
• Seamless integration with preferred third-party tools
• Elimination of monthly subscription fees after development

A custom EHR from Arkenea addresses the universal complaint heard across all commercial EHRs: finding a system that providers actually enjoy using. With software built specifically for your practice, you can achieve the efficiency and satisfaction that generic solutions often fail to deliver.

The investment in custom development often pays for itself through improved efficiency, reduced training costs, and elimination of workaround solutions that practices typically need with commercial systems.

Price: The price of development ranges anywhere from US $150,000 to $300,000 based on complexity and workflows. But you own the software 100%.

Learn more about custom EHR software development with Arkenea.

2. Athenahealth (Best All-Around for Mid-Sized Practices)

Athenahealth consistently ranks among the top choices for private practices, earning praise for its comprehensive feature set and intuitive design. Many physicians describe it as the “least frustrating” EHR they’ve used outside of hospital systems.

Key Strengths:

• Streamlined interface that new users can learn quickly
• Comprehensive platform including EHR, practice management, telehealth, and billing
• Modern features like support for preferred names and pronouns for inclusive patient care
• Strong connectivity with nationwide clinical networks for easy data exchange
• Mobile app for accessing schedules and patient information on the go
• Built-in patient communication tools reducing need for third-party applications

Considerations:

• Higher cost structure, typically 7-8% of collections
• Mixed experiences with their billing service quality
• Can become expensive for high-volume practices
• Some users report billing service issues requiring close monitoring

Best for: Medium to large practices (20-100 providers) seeking comprehensive functionality with good usability, especially those wanting an all-in-one solution.

3. Elation Health (Best for Primary Care & Internal Medicine)

Elation Health has earned devoted followers among primary care physicians for its physician-centric design and efficient workflows. The system consistently receives high satisfaction ratings from users who appreciate its focus on clinical efficiency.

Key Strengths:

• Minimal-click interface that significantly reduces documentation time
• Clinical timeline view keeps patient history visible on one screen
• Excellent user satisfaction ratings, including Best in KLAS 2025 for Small Practice Ambulatory EHR
• Integrated billing option or flexibility to use external billing services
• US-based customer support with consistently positive reviews
• Focus on continuity of care with timeline-based patient records

Considerations:

• Mid-range pricing around $350 monthly per provider
• May not scale as effectively for very large practices (100+ providers)
• Fewer enterprise-level features compared to larger systems
• Limited specialty-specific templates outside primary care

Best for: Small to medium practices (1-20 providers) prioritizing physician satisfaction and workflow efficiency, particularly primary care and internal medicine.

4. Tebra (Kareo) (Best Value for Small Practices)

Tebra, formed from the merger of Kareo and PatientPop, offers a reliable, cost-effective solution that many users describe as dependable for day-to-day operations. The system emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing essential functionality.

Key Strengths:

• User-friendly dashboard with intuitive navigation
• Integrated practice management combining EHR, billing, and scheduling seamlessly
• Built-in telehealth with pre-call testing tools for patients
• Transparent pricing around $300 monthly per provider with no percentage-based fees
• Mobile-optimized patient portal with online scheduling capabilities
• Good customer support for implementation and ongoing questions

Considerations:

• Customer service quality has reportedly declined since the company merger
• May show limitations as practices scale beyond 50 providers
• Some reports of gradual price increases over time
• Limited advanced reporting compared to enterprise systems

Best for: Small to medium practices (1-10 providers) seeking straightforward, affordable EHR and practice management solution.

5. AdvancedMD (Best for Customization & Multi-Specialty)

AdvancedMD offers enterprise-level capabilities in a cloud-based package, making it suitable for practices needing extensive customization and advanced features.

Key Strengths:

• Highly customizable with specialty-specific templates and workflows
• Robust scheduling and billing tools with detailed reporting capabilities
• Flexible revenue cycle management options, supporting both in-house and outsourced billing
• Strong telehealth integration with comprehensive feature set
• Scalable from small practices to large multi-specialty groups
• Advanced reporting and analytics capabilities

Considerations:

• Complex pricing structure with potential hidden fees; careful contract negotiation required
• Steeper learning curve compared to simpler systems
• Mixed reviews on customer support quality and responsiveness
• Can be overwhelming for practices with simple needs

Best for: Practices requiring extensive customization and willing to invest in a more complex system, particularly multi-specialty groups with diverse needs.

6. DrChrono (Best for Mobile-First Practices)

DrChrono stands out as the premier mobile EHR, perfect for tech-forward practices that want to embrace tablet-based documentation and mobile workflows.

Key Strengths:

• iPad-optimized interface with Apple Pencil support for drawing on diagrams
• Fully featured mobile app allowing scheduling, prescribing, and documentation from any device
• Flexible customization options with form builder and extensive API
• Affordable entry point starting around $199-250 monthly per provider
• Variable appointment duration settings and reputation management tools
• Strong integration capabilities with third-party applications

Considerations:

• Reports of annual price increases making long-term costs unpredictable
• Some users report stability and reliability concerns
• May lack advanced features needed for very large practices
• Smaller company with potential support limitations

Best for: Tech-savvy small practices prioritizing mobility and iPad-based workflows, particularly those wanting cutting-edge mobile functionality.

7. eClinicalWorks (Most Comprehensive Features)

Despite widespread complaints about its interface, eClinicalWorks remains popular due to its comprehensive feature set and proven ability to handle large-scale operations.

Key Strengths:

• Extensive feature set covering virtually every practice need
• Strong scalability from solo practices to large enterprise groups
• Predictable flat-rate pricing around $650 monthly per provider
• Mature platform with robust clinical decision support and population health tools
• Large user base making it easier to find experienced staff
• Comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities

Considerations:

• Consistently criticized for being click-heavy and inefficient
• Steep learning curve with common user frustration
• Interface feels outdated compared to modern alternatives
• May require significant customization to optimize workflows

Best for: Large practices prioritizing comprehensive functionality over user experience, or those with existing eClinicalWorks expertise and investment.

Best EHR Software for Mental Health and Therapy Practices

Mental health practices have unique requirements that general medical EHRs often don’t address adequately. Therapy-specific features like treatment planning, outcome measurements, and specialized billing codes are essential for behavioral health providers.

TherapyNotes (Best Overall for Mental Health)

TherapyNotes was built specifically for mental health practices and includes specialized features that general EHRs lack.

Key Features:

• Treatment plan templates and progress note formats designed for therapy
• Outcome measurement tools and assessment tracking
• Group therapy session scheduling and documentation
• Specialized billing codes for mental health services
• Patient portal with secure messaging for therapy practices
• Integration with psychological testing platforms

Best for: Solo therapists to medium-sized mental health practices focused on therapy services.

SimplePractice (Best for Solo Therapists)

SimplePractice offers an affordable, user-friendly solution designed specifically for small therapy practices and solo practitioners.

Key Features:

• Simple, intuitive interface requiring minimal training
• Integrated telehealth for virtual therapy sessions
• Client portal with intake forms and secure messaging
• Basic billing and insurance claim submission
• Appointment scheduling with automated reminders
• Document storage and e-signature capabilities

Best for: Solo therapists and very small mental health practices prioritizing simplicity and affordability.

TheraNest (Best Value for Growing Practices)

TheraNest provides comprehensive mental health practice management with good scalability for growing therapy practices.

Key Features:

• Complete practice management including scheduling, billing, and documentation
• Treatment planning with goal tracking and progress monitoring
• Group therapy management and family therapy tools
• Insurance verification and claims management
• Telehealth integration with session recording capabilities
• Outcome measurement and reporting tools

Best for: Small to medium therapy practices that need comprehensive practice management with growth potential.

Essential EHR Features for Private Practice

Understanding which features truly matter for your practice type helps you evaluate EHR options effectively and avoid paying for unnecessary functionality.

Clinical Documentation and Templates

Efficient documentation capabilities can save hours daily. Look for systems offering customizable templates, quick text options, voice recognition integration, and the ability to import data from other sources. The best systems allow you to document while maintaining eye contact with patients rather than staring at screens.

Electronic Prescribing Capabilities

Modern e-prescribing goes beyond basic medication orders. Look for systems that handle controlled substances (EPCS), provide drug interaction checking, formulary verification, and prior authorization management. Integration with pharmacy systems and medication history access can significantly improve prescribing efficiency.

Billing and Revenue Cycle Management

EHR billing integration can eliminate duplicate data entry and reduce errors. Evaluate whether you need full revenue cycle management services or just claims submission capabilities. Consider insurance verification, patient payment processing, and reporting features that help optimize your practice’s financial performance.

Appointment Scheduling and Patient Portal

Robust scheduling should handle multiple providers, locations, and appointment types while integrating with your EHR documentation. Patient portals should offer online scheduling, secure messaging, lab result access, and intake form completion. The goal is reducing phone calls and administrative tasks while improving patient satisfaction.

Telehealth Integration

Post-pandemic telehealth has become essential for most practices. Evaluate whether telehealth is built into the EHR or requires separate platforms. Consider features like waiting rooms, session recording, screen sharing, and integration with documentation workflows.

HIPAA Compliance and Security

All reputable EHRs provide HIPAA compliance, but security features vary significantly. Look for encryption, audit trails, user access controls, and backup systems. Consider the vendor’s security track record and compliance certifications.

Reporting and Analytics

Good reporting helps optimize practice performance and meet regulatory requirements. Evaluate financial reports, clinical quality measures, productivity analytics, and population health tools. The ability to create custom reports can be valuable for growing practices.

Integration Capabilities

Consider how the EHR connects with other systems you use: labs, imaging centers, pharmacies, billing services, and patient communication tools. Strong integration capabilities reduce manual work and improve data accuracy.

Mobile Access and Usability

Mobile access isn’t just about convenience; it can be essential for practices with providers who round at hospitals or see patients in multiple locations. Evaluate mobile apps for functionality, security, and ease of use.

Practice Size Considerations

Different practice sizes have distinct EHR needs that significantly impact which systems work best.

Best EHR for Solo Practitioners (1 provider)

Solo practitioners need simplicity, affordability, and efficiency above all else. The ideal EHR minimizes administrative burden while providing essential functionality.

Top Recommendations:

• Tebra (Kareo): Excellent balance of features and simplicity
• SimplePractice: Perfect for solo therapists
• Practice Fusion: Budget option for basic needs
• Elation Health: Premium option for efficiency-focused physicians

Key Considerations: Focus on ease of use, integrated billing, patient portal, and total cost of ownership. Avoid overly complex systems designed for larger practices.

Best EHR for Small Practices (2-10 providers)

Small practices need systems that can handle multiple users while remaining cost-effective and easy to manage.

Top Recommendations:

• Elation Health: Excellent for primary care small groups
• Tebra (Kareo): Great all-around choice for various specialties
• DrChrono: Good for tech-forward practices
• Athenahealth: Comprehensive but more expensive option

Key Considerations: Multi-user scheduling, role-based access, scalability potential, and integrated practice management become more important.

Best EHR for Medium Practices (11-50 providers)

Medium practices need robust functionality with good scaling capabilities and advanced features.

Top Recommendations:

• Athenahealth: Comprehensive solution with good scalability
• AdvancedMD: Excellent customization for complex needs
• eClinicalWorks: Full-featured despite usability issues
• NextGen: Enterprise-level capabilities

Key Considerations: Advanced reporting, multiple location support, complex scheduling, and integration with hospital systems become critical.

Best EHR for Large Practices (50+ providers)

Large practices need enterprise-level functionality with the ability to handle complex workflows and high patient volumes.

Top Recommendations:

• Epic (via Community Connect): Gold standard if accessible
• Athenahealth: Proven scalability for large groups
• eClinicalWorks: Handles high volumes well
• Custom Development (Arkenea): Tailored solution for unique needs

Key Considerations: Enterprise features, advanced analytics, complex user management, and integration with health systems become essential.

Custom vs Off-the-Shelf EHR Solutions

The choice between commercial EHR systems and custom development represents a fundamental decision that impacts your practice for years to come.

Benefits of Off-the-Shelf EHR Systems

Commercial EHRs offer immediate implementation, proven functionality, and ongoing support. They’re typically less expensive upfront and include regular updates and new features. For practices with standard workflows, commercial systems often provide adequate functionality at reasonable costs.

Advantages of Custom EHR Development

Custom development through companies like Arkenea creates solutions perfectly aligned with your practice’s unique needs. You get exactly the features you want without unnecessary complexity or monthly subscription fees. Custom systems can integrate seamlessly with existing tools and workflows.

Custom development makes particular sense for practices with unique requirements, those frustrated with commercial systems, or larger practices where the long-term savings justify the initial investment.

Making the Right Choice

Consider custom development if you have specific workflow requirements, want to eliminate ongoing subscription costs, need unique integrations, or have the budget for initial investment. Choose commercial systems if you need immediate implementation, want proven functionality, or prefer predictable monthly costs.

EHR Systems with Best Telehealth Integration

Telehealth has evolved from a nice-to-have feature to an essential component of modern healthcare delivery. The best EHR systems seamlessly integrate telehealth into existing workflows.

Systems with Native Telehealth

Athenahealth: Offers integrated video visits with no additional platforms required. Scheduling, documentation, and billing all happen within the same system.

Elation Health: Provides telehealth powered by Zoom integration, allowing video visits to appear alongside in-person appointments in scheduling.

Tebra (Kareo): Includes built-in telemedicine with pre-call testing tools to ensure patients can connect successfully.

DrChrono: Strong mobile telehealth capabilities optimized for tablet and smartphone use.

Telehealth Workflow Considerations

The best telehealth integration allows providers to seamlessly move between in-person and virtual visits without changing systems. Documentation should work identically for both visit types, and billing should automatically handle telehealth-specific codes and requirements.

Look for features like waiting rooms, screen sharing, session recording (where appropriate), and mobile access for providers who conduct virtual visits from various locations.

FAQ: Common EHR Questions for Private Practice

What is the best EHR for solo practitioners?

For solo practitioners, Tebra (Kareo) and Elation Health offer the best combination of functionality, ease of use, and value. Solo therapists should strongly consider SimplePractice for its therapy-specific features and affordable pricing.

How much does EHR software cost for private practice?

EHR costs range from $150-300 monthly per provider for basic systems to $500-700 for comprehensive solutions. Percentage-based pricing (like Athenahealth’s 7-8% of collections) can be more or less expensive depending on your practice’s revenue. Factor in implementation, training, and integration costs for total cost of ownership.

What EHR features are essential for small practices?

Essential features include electronic prescribing, appointment scheduling, basic clinical documentation, patient portal, billing integration, and HIPAA compliance. Nice-to-have features include telehealth, advanced reporting, and custom templates.

How do I switch from one EHR to another?

EHR migration requires careful planning including data export/import, staff training, workflow redesign, and patient communication. Most vendors offer migration services, but expect 3-6 months for complete transition and potential temporary productivity decreases.

What’s the difference between EHR and practice management software?

EHR systems focus on clinical documentation, prescribing, and medical records. Practice management software handles scheduling, billing, and administrative tasks. Many modern systems integrate both functions, but some practices prefer separate specialized solutions.

Do I need HIPAA-compliant EHR software?

Yes, any EHR used in healthcare practices must be HIPAA-compliant. All reputable EHR vendors provide HIPAA compliance, but verify this during your evaluation process and ensure proper business associate agreements are in place.

What’s the best EHR for telehealth?

Athenahealth, Elation Health, and DrChrono offer the strongest native telehealth integration. For therapy practices, SimplePractice and TherapyNotes provide telehealth specifically designed for mental health services.

Can I use a free EHR for my private practice?

While some vendors offer limited free plans, truly free EHRs typically lack essential features like telehealth, advanced billing, or adequate support. The cost savings often disappear when you factor in the need for additional tools and reduced efficiency.

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing the right EHR for your private practice requires balancing multiple factors including cost, functionality, usability, and growth potential. The perfect system doesn’t exist, but the right system for your specific needs certainly does.

Start by clearly defining your must-have features versus nice-to-have options. Consider your practice’s growth plans and ensure your chosen system can scale appropriately. Factor in the total cost of ownership, including implementation, training, and ongoing operational expenses.

Most importantly, involve your actual users in the decision process. The EHR that looks great in demonstrations may frustrate the providers and staff who use it daily. Request trial periods, speak with current users, and prioritize systems with strong user satisfaction ratings.

Whether you choose a commercial solution or invest in custom development through a company like Arkenea, the key is finding a system that enhances rather than hinders your ability to provide excellent patient care. The right EHR should feel like a helpful tool rather than a daily obstacle, allowing your practice to focus on what matters most: caring for patients.

Remember that EHR implementation is just the beginning. Success depends on proper training, workflow optimization, and ongoing system management. Choose a vendor that provides strong support throughout your journey, not just during the sales process.