KLAS: Epic, Cerner Ride the Buying Wave While Others Struggle to Stay Afloat

As organizations shift their focus to the next three to five years, a significant number are looking to replace their existing acute care EMR systems. But for vendors looking to land new clients, the news isn’t good, as the majority of those looking to make a move already have a specific platform in mind, according to KLAS.

In a new report, KLAS found that of the hospital leaders who plan to make a switch, 34 percent have already selected a vendor, and 39 percent are leaning in a particular direction, leaving just 22 percent up for grabs. Not surprisingly, Epic and Cerner are the top choices, with two-thirds of those surveyed stating that they are considering Epic.

Neither McKesson nor Meditech is being considered much outside of their customer bases, the report found. However, although both have seen legacy customers depart in recent years, hundreds more are still using their EMRs and are contemplating migration to Paragon and 6.0. Challenges around integration and delivery continue to negatively impact Allscripts and Siemens, who are receiving “little attention from buyers, with the exception of some McKesson Horizon sites that are taking them into account before making a decision,” noted report author Colin Buckley. For Allscripts, a lack of progress on promised integration has led to slowing sales and a shift to smaller hospitals.

In terms of motivation for replacing systems, ability to facilitate integration was identified as a key driver. “Where the last round of EMR purchases was fueled by meaningful use requirements and enticing reimbursements, this next round is being fueled by concerns about outdated technology and health system consolidation,” said Buckley. “This shift in focus will play a major factor in which EMRs are being considered.”