Complete Practice Management Software

ChiroMonkey.com has witnessed the evolution of many basic chiropractic software applications into fully functional, feature-rich practice management systems. This trend is likely the result of supply and demand within the chiropractic industry. Most chiropractors are looking for chiropractic software that is capable of streamlining office many common office procedures such as patient scheduling, chiropractic billing, report writing and even marketing. The companies behind these systems have one goal in common - to automate and simplify the task of running an office. Some obviously do it much better than others.

Benefits of these practice management systems are numerous and include:

• Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Allows the doctor to move from a paper-based office to a digital system. Converting to an EMR system cuts down on the cost of paper folders and storage space and eliminates the need for staff to constantly retrieve and replace patient folders, thus allowing them to focus on more important office duties.
• Automated Reports: Most chiropractic electronic medical records (EMR) systems feature a built in automated report generator that is capable of producing a variety of common notes, reports and letters in a matter of seconds or minutes. Because reports are electronically generated, there is no need for dictation or transcription services which can save the chiropractic office hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year.
• Electronic Data Transfer: Because a patient's file is completely digitized, there is no need to mail out records. As a result, there are no additional costs for copies and postage. Furthermore, many of chiropractic office software applications have built-in fax/email capabilities, thus eliminating the need for an additional fax line, a fax machine, paper and toner. All patient records can be securely faxed or emailed directly from the software application.
• Patient Scheduling: Most chiropractic office management software features a built-in appointment scheduler with capabilities for multiple providers.
• Patient Billing: One of the features that makes a practice management system complete is the addition of chiropractic billing software. Most chiropractic office management systems have built-in electronic billing capabilities as well as standard paper billing. This feature alone can save the chiropractic office thousands of dollars per year in billing and collection fees. The process is simple and efficient.
• And Much More: In addition to the features mentioned above, many chiropractic practice management systems offer creative tools for patient communication and marketing and other value-added services beneficial to the chiropractors.

How To Select The Right Chiropractic Office Management Software

Now that we have familiarized you with some common features of chiropractic office software systems, the next step is to help you to select a system that is right for you. With so many options, this can be a daunting task for most chiropractors and in some cases, can be more stressful than running a practice. As a chiropractor, you are not only a doctor, but also a businessman (or woman). With that said, all businesses have three (3) primary concerns: These include PRICE, FEATURES AND SUPPORT.  Doctor's investigating an electronic medical records (EMR) or practice management system should always keep these three concerns in mind.

Most complete chiropractic office software systems can run anywhere from $2,000 up to $14,000. with the average cost for a full systems being around $3,000 (not including a support plan). As a general rule of thumb, it's probably a good idea to avoid practice management systems costing in excess of $4,000 no matter how big your budget is. The money saved on your practice management system can be better spent on marketing or educational seminars. Most companies charging in excess of $4,000 are medical software companies attempting to tap into the chiropractic software industry. These systems are overpriced and offer many of the same features found in systems costing thousands less. It's probably a good idea when you contact these companies to ask right away how much their systems cost and if they market to other professions. Typically, you will get a pushy and "hungry" salesperson on the line who will avoid the issue of cost and begin to tell you about how wonderful their system is and about all it can do. Again, this is usually a distraction from the real issue - a very high price.

Rule of thumb...Do not spend in excess of $4,000.00 - there are plenty of feature-rich systems costing less. With that said, there are also some inexpensive chiropractic practice management systems available. Most of these systems will typically run $2,000 - $2,500 (not including a support plan). Some of these systems are a great value, while others are limited in their capabilities. It all depends on what YOU require - not what they offer. This brings us to the next topic of our discussion - VALUE.

When we speak of Value, we are essentially referring to what you get for
your money. A good chiropractic office management system should at the least include a built-in appointment scheduler, chiropractic billing software with electronic claims, automated report generator and EMR capabilities. It should also provide multiple levels of security and be HIPAA compliant. Do you really need an appointment scheduler that can handle up to 10 providers, comes in 100 colors and is accessible from your mobile phone? Probably not. Stick with the basic and most important features and don't be misled by all the bells and whistles. Remember, you are paying for those features whether you use them or not.

Last but not least, you should ask what level of support the company provides its clients and at what cost. Nearly every company we surveyed charges for support, so expect to pay something. The question is, how much should you pay for a support plan and what should it include? The average cost support plan for a support plan is $395.00 - $750.00 per year which commonly includes upgrades as well. You should be careful to ask they type of support  (phone vs. web) available and the availability of the support staff. If you are only able to call in between the hours of 9:00 am and 12:00 pm M-W-F, it's probably a plan you'll want to stay away from!

Top Chiropractic Practice Management Software

EINSTEIN Practice Management is a "young" company that is completely dedicated to the chiropractic profession. Einstein offers everything a doctor could ask for and more - affordability, a multitude of features that would impress Einstein himself, and a support plan that is unmatched by anyone in the industry. EINSTEIN Practice Management software was literally built from the ground up using the latest and most advanced .NET technologies. In fact, EINSTEIN is one of the only chiropractic software systems using these advanced technologies. According to Bill Gates, 92% of the Fortune 100 companies are using .NET technology. EINSTEIN Practice Management offers everything from automated updates, upgrades and secure off-site data backup to automated appointment reminders to help reduce the percentage of "no-shows" common to most offices. The look and design of their interface is "clean" and "fresh", and maintains a very user-friendly feel to it that most doctors will appreciate (think Microsoft Office 2007).

We were provided an advanced demo version of the software and were pleasantly surprised. EINSTEIN software completely automates nearly every chiropractic office procedure including scheduling, chiropractic billing procedures, report writing, outcomes assessments, impairment ratings and complete data management. An endless variety of notes, reports and custom letters can be generated in just seconds with ease. EINSTEIN can also digitize paper documents and transmit them electronically with ease. At the time of this review, we were told that the complete system is expected to sell for $2,495.00. They state that there will be no additional modules to purchase or extra charges for multi-user licenses or network versions. Unlimited phone support is also available - get this - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! EINSTEIN's CEO and management team has made it clear that they plan to compete on every level in the marketplace when the product is launched nationally in June 2007. For complete and detailed information, visit EINSTEIN Chiropractic Software.

Quixote Chiropractic Software
Quixote chiropractic software is distributed/marketed by San Diego based Private Practice Technologies. Quixote offers a full practice management solution for chiropractic offices. Their system features an advanced and attractive appointment scheduler, integrated billing system with electronic billing capabilities, automated reporting and an electronic document management system. Quixote is one the few "next-generation" practice management systems (similar to Einstein Practice Management) that is built using the latest .NET technology. This technology automates the process of updating and upgrading the software. Quixote also features automated off-site daily backups of critical information so data loss and recovery is never an issue. On the downside, these features do not come without a price - a steep one in our opinion. The last time we checked, the complete Quixote practice management system was retailing for $9,800.00. Their may be additional charges for support and maintenance, and additional hardware as well, making this one of the more expensive chiropractic software systems on the market today. For complete and detailed information, visit QuixoteChiropractic Office Software. 

ChiroSmart EMR 
ChiroSmart is a "system in development" that is planned for release in late September 2007. Corporate states that the system will offer advanced scheduling with capabilities for multiple providers, billing, electronic data management and automated reporting. Billing services will be offered through Emdeon, the nation's largest clearinghouse. C.E.O., Bruce Shay has more than 17 years experience as a senior developer and project manager for Intel services. He and his team of IT professionals strongly believe that there is room for improvement with respect to the office management systems that are currently available to chiropractors. The company is committed to serving the chiropractic profession and has no plans to expand to other markets at this time. The ChiroSmart system is expected to retail for $3,499.00 with an annual support plan running an additional $600 - $800 depending on the number of office staff. They also plan to offer a very generous discount for new graduates and first year doctors. Clients will also have the option of trying the complete system for 14 days at no charge with limited support. No additional information is available at this time. We will update this review as more information becomes available including the official release date of the system.

Lytec Medical & ChiroChart EMR 
MediSoft offers two practice management software solutions for the chiropractic office. Lytec Medical is their patient scheduling and billing module, while ChiroChart is an electronic medical records (EMR) solution specifically designed for chiropractors. Lytec Medical is a complete solution for managing patient accounting, insurance billing, claims tracking, accounts receivable, and appointment scheduling. The cost of Lytec Medical is about $2,300. An annual support plan will run you an additional $595 or you can opt for a "per-case" fee of $35. Electronic billing can also be added for an additional fee of $79 per 1,000 claims through Emdeon. ChiroChart utilizes "tabs" for easy navigation and is designed for Tablet PC use. It is a complete EMR system that even features a series of anatomic images and built-in reporting capabilities. The cost of ChiroChart software is about $3,500. Annual support will run you an additional $549. If you are searching for a practice management system that offers scheduling, billing and EMR capabilities, you will need to purchase both Lytec Medical and ChiroChart which will run you about $5,800 total. An annual support plan for the combined system will run an additional $1,144. Each of these systems are very complete and should suit the needs of any chiropractic office. The MediSoft practice management solution is a bit costlier than others boasting similar features and functionality. For complete and detailed information, visit Lytec Medical Software for theChiropractic Office. 

Eclipse Chiropractic Office Software
Eclipse chiropractic software offers a complete practice management solution for doctors. Their software has been in use for the past 20 years at thousands of offices throughout the U.S. Eclipse has recently upgraded their software to version 10.0 which features electronic billing capabilities, electronic medical record (EMR), daily notes, an alerts system, security features, and is HIPAA compliant. Eclipse also offers the capability to import forms that are frequently used in the office, and convert them to digital files. Patient data can then be imported into the digital files prior to printing. Eclipse has recently implemented a virtual training aid to help new users and their office staff get started quickly with their software package. The Galactek website states that these virtual training program must be ordered and does not quote a price for the training module. One would hope that it was offered at no additional charge as this should be included as part of their support plan. Overall, Eclipse chiropractic software is a solid program with an abundance of useful features that most doctors will appreciate. The last time we checked, their software was selling for around $2,000. Additional user licenses cost extra. Support with all upgrades will run you about $700 annually. For complete and detailed information, visit Eclipse Software for Chiropractic. 

PracticeStudio.NET  
PracticeStudio.NET is a complete practice management software solution offered by MicroFour Inc. The system is built using the .NET platform which offers many benefits over systems built on older and outdated technologies. PracticeStudio.NET offers three options for users. These include a front office module that features scheduling and billing capabilities, an electronic medical records (EMR) solution for document management and reporting, or a combination of the two for a complete office management solution. The front office solution will run you about $4,995 - a bit pricey compared to other scheduling and billing systems. The complete scheduling, billing and EMR system runs about $8,100. Support is offered on a "per-call" basis and an annual plan that includes regular software updates is available for $795.00. MicroFour offers a free online demo of the software. If you are looking for a full-featured practice management solution for your office that includes the latest technology, and price is not a concern, PracticeStudio.NET might be worth checking out. For complete and detailed information, visit PracticeStudio.NETChiropractic Software.

ChiroPad / ChiroOffice / ChiroSuite Software
ChiroPad is a paperless office documentation system developed by Life Systems Software. ChiroPad is a random text report generator that can be used to create SOAP notes and chiropractic narrative reports. The company's website states that their random text generator can greatly reduce the number of rejected claims which we dispute. Most claims are rejected not because of a lack of random text generation, but because of a lack of adequate documentation. No insurance adjuster will deny that. ChiroPad also features several context-sensitive graphical anatomy regions, voice capture abilities, embedded ink notes, and document scanning so your office can move toward a paperless existence. The ChiroPad software also integrates completely with ChiroOffice, a more robust and feature rich chiropractic software application that offers appointment scheduling, patient billing, fee scheduling, insurance processing, document scanning and patient letter generation. ChiroSuite is essentially ChiroPad and ChiroOffice combined into one program. ChiroSuite retails for about $3,500.00 and includes one year of free technical support and all upgrades. After that, it will run you about $1,000.00 per year for support and upgrades if you choose. The interface of ChiroPad appears very "out-dated" and lacks visual appeal. This is more than likely a result of the older technology the system was built on. For complete and detailed information, visit ChiroSuite Chiropractic Office Software. 

TGI Solutions Software
TGI offers three separate chiropractic software solutions depending on the needs of your office. These include VISIT notes, CASE notes and Autumn 8. VISIT Notes software is a sub-set of Case Notes and is primarily for the production of daily chiropractic SOAP notes. The cost of VISIT Notes is $495.00. CASE Notes is a full-featured documentation software application that can produce SOAP notes, chiropractic narrative reports, outcomes, accident reports and x-ray reports. CASE Notes comes packaged with VISIT Notes software and retails for $995.00. Autumn 8 software is an integrated solution for billing, scheduling, SOAP notes, chiropractic narrative reports, patient management and is HIPAA compliant. Autumn 8 software also features electronic billing capabilities. The cost of Autumn 8 for a single user same office is $1,995.00. Additional user licenses can be obtained for $300 per user. TGI offers a variety of training packages including in-office and at their Pensacola, FL location. Training will cost $300 - $600 depending on your preference. They offer 60 days of free technical support on their non-toll-free line, then charge $500 per year for their Autumn 8 chiropractic software. TGI offers three diverse software options for the chiropractic office which should satisfy the needs of any user. Their products are reasonably priced, including their support plan. For complete and detailed information, visit TGI Solutions Software for the Chiropractic Office.

Advantage Software
Advantage software offers complete practice management solutions for chiropractors, medical professionals and physical therapists. Their chiropractic office software features appointment scheduling, integrated billing, full and flexible reporting capabilities, document scanning, inventory control and marketing tools. In addition to these features, Advantage software is also fully customizable so it should suit the needs of both doctor and office staff. When we contacted the company for additional details, the staff was very friendly and helpful. Advantage chiropractic software retails for about $3,500.00 for the full suite. Users are also required to purchase an annual support plan which includes all training, technical support, updates and upgrades. The cost of the support plan is around $920.00 per year. For complete and detailed information, visit AdvantageChiropractic Software Systems. 

Platinum Systems Chiropractic Office Software
Platinum Systems is a full practice management solution designed especially for the chiropractic profession. Platinum Systems is a Canadian company  founded by Mr. Claude Côté. Platinum System presents a new organizational structure adapted to the chiropractic clinics. The complete system offers a total of 10 integrated modules including reception/administration management, document management, arrivals management, patient calling, x-ray and posture analysis, electronic travel card, communication, recall, clinic diagnosis and backup. Two additional modules are also available. These include vertebral thermography evaluation and pre-authorized payment. When we called the company's support line, we were placed on hold for more than 10 minutes and were constantly reminded that most calls are answered immediately. When we finally reached a representative and inquired about pricing, we were told that we had to call another number (which we did and received a voice mail). The representative we spoke with explained that the cost of the system was around "$700.00 per month" and was unsure as to how many months the term of the contract was. To implement the Platinum System, one needs to purchase not only their software, but an additional server, sign-in computer, adjustment room computers, and up to two front-desk computers! The cost of this system can add up very quickly. In our opinion, the system is a bit excessive for the needs of most doctors, and similar features and functionality can be found in other systems costing much less. For complete and detailed information, visit Platinum SystemsSoftware for the Chiropractic Office.

EON Systems
EON Systems offers practice management solutions for chiropractors and physical therapists. Their chiropractic software consists of an appointment scheduler, billing module and report generator. When we contacted the company to inquire about their product, we were initially told the complete system retails for around $5,880.00 plus $120 per month for support and updates. When we seemed disinterested in purchasing their software and were about to end the call, the sales representative known as "Bambi" then told us about a special they have for doctors with less than 300 patients. The "special" price was around $4,600 not including support. When we questioned Bambi as to why she didn't explain the "special" price when we first contacted her, she stated that she forgot about it. In our opinion, this system is overpriced for the features it offers. EON claims on their website that they have invested more than $1,000,000 into the development of their chiropractic office software. It appears as if this cost is being passed on to the client. For complete and detailed information, visit EON Systems Chiropractic Software for complete office management.

ChiroPulse Office Software
ChiroPulse chiropractic software offers a complete practice management solution at an affordable price. Their chiropractic office software features an integrated appointment scheduler, insurance and patient billing with electronic claims capabilities, SOAP note generator, practice statistics and marketing information, voice-enabled dictation and multi-user capabilities. At the time of this review, ChiroPulse software was retailing for $1,600.00 for a single user license which comes with 30 days of free technical support. Additional user licenses are available at a cost of $900.00 per user. An annual support plan can also be purchased for a very reasonable $400.00 (single) plus $100 per additional user. We highly recommend clients purchase a software support plan, especially if it's reasonably priced and includes all updates and upgrades to the product. Trust us, you WILL have questions and problems that arise throughout the year. ChiroPulse also offers a "per incident" support plan where charges run from $35 - $100 per incident. Overall, we feel this system is affordably priced and offers the features required for most chiropractic offices. For complete and detailed information, visit ChiroPulseChiropractic Software for complete office management.  

ClinicPro Software
ClinicPro describes itself as "the company committed to support" according to its website. Some key features of ClinicPro software include user-defined security levels, fully integrated appointment book, ability to print patient statements and file claims electronically, voice recognition software, SOAP note and chiropractic narrative report generator, mail merge and EHR capabilities. Network versions of the software are also available at no extra charge. Pricing packages vary depending on the requirements of your chiropractic office. Software packages with EMR capabilities range from $1,495.00 - $3,995.00. Annual support plans are available for $800 - $1,200 and include free upgrades and multiple levels of support. Leasing plans are available to those who qualify. A free 30 day trial is also available to all prospective clients. For complete and detailed information, visit ClinicProChiropractic Office Software for complete practice management.

For Chiropractors Only 
Versatile Software Systems offers a practice management solution, known as For Chiropractors Only,  that includes scheduling, billing, inventory, mail merge, reporting capabilities and more. The system is network compatible and will run on Windows 95, 98 2nd Edition, XP and 2000. We are always a bit leery of any software that will run on the Windows 95 OS, as this is more of an indication of the program's age and functionality. The complete For Chiropractors Only system retails for $1,295 and includes one full year of support and maintenance. This is one of the least expensive systems we have reviewed. We attempted to contact the company on several occasions to inquire further about their software's features/functionality and about their technical support plan, but kept getting a voice message saying to leave a message. Hopefully this isn't an indication of the company's commitment to their clients. Again, when you are searching for a practice management system, you must not only consider the price and the features of the system, but also the level of support you can expect to receive for the company. For complete and detailed information, visit For Chiropractors OnlyChiropractic Office Software for complete practice management. 

Chiro8000 Office Software
Chiro8000 is a complete billing and practice management solution offered by Forte Systems. Forte Systems develops practice management software for a variety of professions including chiropractors, podiatrist, dentists, and even veterinarians. There are essentially three different versions of the Chiro8000 software from which users can select from. Chiro8000 I is the company's most chiropractic software and provides the user with a complete billing solution for a very reasonable $449.95. Chiro8000 S offers the user a complete billing and patient marketing solution and retails for $749.95. Chiro8000 Plus is the company's best selling practice management solution and includes scheduling, billing, reporting and patient/practice marketing solutions. The cost for a single PC user edition is $1,499.95 not including support (3 months of free support is included). For high-volume multi doctor clinics, Forte Systems offers their Chiro8000 Practice Expansion Software. The single PC edition for a single user retails for $4,999.95 and includes 6 months of support. The cost of the annual support plan after the initial 3 or 6 month period is about $950.00 per year. Network versions of the software are also available for an additional cost. For complete and detailed information, visit Chiro8000 Chiropractic Office Software for complete practice management.

ChiroSoft Office Software
According to their corporate website, ChiroSoft is a national billing and practice management software company dedicated to supporting the technology needs of Chiropractor's around the United States. Their aim is to "Align Your Practice" through their integrated practice management solutions specifically designed and developed for the chiropractic office. ChiroSoft software offers patient scheduling and tracking, billing, reporting, inventory control, financial tracking and a SOAP and office note generator. We could not find any information pertaining to an integrated EHR. Pricing varies depending on the option you select. Their ChiroSoft Standard Edition runs $99.95 per month for a single user and $129.95 per month for a multi-user license. Network editions are also available for $129.95 single user and $149.95 multi-user. Keep in mind that these are monthly fees and are not applied towards the purchase of the software. If you would rather purchase the software, that option is also available at a cost of $3,999.95 and comes with three months of technical support. For complete and detailed information, visit ChiroSoft Software for theChiropractic Office.

EZ BIS Chiropractic Office Software 
EZ BIS has been developing software that is specific to the chiropractic industry since 1980. They offer a unique "modular" approach to practice management software. Doctors may choose to start with the accounting and billing modules initially, then add others modules such as scheduling, automated SOAP notes and inventory control. This approach helps to reduce the initial cost of the software, yet allows for growth of the practice. EZ BIS software does not feature full electronic medical records (EMR) capabilities like other office software systems for the chiropractic industry. It also lacks a robust note and report generator for the creation of initial consultations, narrative reports, outcomes assessment, and so on. If you are seeking a full featured EMR, you're better going with systems like Einstein, Advanced or Quixote. The cost of the complete system runs about $2,500 and includes 90 days of free support. An annual support plan can then be purchased for $400 and includes all software updates. For complete and detailed information, visit EZ BISChiropractic Office Software for complete practice management.

QuickNotes Chiropractic Software 
Quick Notes Inc offers a variety of practice management solutions for chiropractors including PDQ, Q'Notes, Doc Q Manager and Q Coding. PDQ is a 100% mobile solution, allowing the doctor to complete patient notes at the point-of-care. PDQ software is built to interface with Q'Notes software. Q'Notes is an electronic medical records (EMR) software program that includes tools for transcription.  Q'Notes EMR has powerful organizational tools including patient groups and case number. There are also quick entries for no-shows, phone calls, and cancellations. Doc Q Manager is a desktop solution for initial examination reports, major narrative reports, fill-in-the-blank templating and management of your patient records and images. Doc-Q-Manager uses point-and-click screens with thorough pick-lists to help you complete your reports and initial visits. The solution is fully customizable. Q Coding utilizes a patented process of scanning barcodes to create a complete, fully accurate and grammatically pleasing note or report for your patient. Barcode systems offer 100% portability and 100% customization. Quick Notes barcode systems use the small and handy pocket wand, which can hold up to 100 daily notes. We have tested the Q Coding system in the past and found it to be more trouble than it's worth. It's probably best to stick with one of the other documentation solutions they offer. For complete and detailed information, visit QuickNotes Chiropractic Software for complete practice management.

Satori Chiropractic Software  
Satori's website states that they offer a "complete" practice management solution. Their system includes scheduling, billing with electronic claims capability and a mail merge feature to create narrative reports. The system appears to lack complete electronic medical records (EMR) capabilities, which allow the user to convert to a paperless office. The price of a single user license runs $2,195.00 and includes 90 days of free support. Satori also offers a starter practice option for $795.00 which allows to the user to enter 125 patients before having to upgrade to the full version. There are three different levels of support available ranging in price from $400 - $800 per year depending on your needs. For complete and detailed information, visit Satori Chiropractic Software for complete office management.

MyEMR Datacenter
The folks at Software Motif actually offer a chiropractic SOAP note program free of charge, or as they put it "a free community service." Their chiropractic reporting software also includes their proprietary CatchPhrase narrative builder. On the downside, technical support is only offered through their internet forum. Software Motif offers this free chiropractic reporting software with the hopes of converting users to their more feature-rich (and expensive) practice management solutions including MyEMR for the Pocket PC and the MyEMR Datacenter which features billing capabilities. If you're planning to upgrade to the MyEMR Pocket PC chiropractic software, it will cost you $1,177.00. Upgrading to the MyEMR Datacenter will run you $2,277.00. Support plans are available for an additional charge. For complete and detailed information, visit MyEMR DataCenterSoftware for Chiropractic.
 

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