Health systems are under increasing pressure to improve financial performance, and optimizing revenue cycle processes within EHRs has become a top priority. According to the latest report from KLAS, EHR Revenue Cycle Optimization 2025: In a High-Performing Market, Which Firms Best Meet Client Needs?, all measured consulting firms are delivering successful results, but some excel in specific areas such as EHR expertise, revenue cycle improvement, and client satisfaction.
The report found that Guidehouse led in overall client satisfaction, with organizations highlighting the firm’s ability to align with leadership teams and execute complex projects efficiently. “Overwhelmingly, our leadership team chose Guidehouse,” said one CFO. “They connected the dots better than any other firm and helped us drive financial improvement.”
Why EHR Revenue Cycle Optimization Matters
Healthcare organizations are grappling with tight margins and increasing financial pressures, making revenue cycle optimization (RCO) a critical initiative. The report stated that most RCO engagements take place after EHR implementation, with firms helping organizations fine-tune workflows, minimize software inefficiencies, and reduce denied claims to improve cash flow.
However, the report also validated some firms—Impact Advisors, Nordic, and Signature Performance—for integrating revenue cycle optimization into EHR implementation projects, helping health systems streamline revenue processes from day one.
At the recent KLAS Revenue Cycle Management Summit, industry leaders emphasized that automation and AI-powered tools are becoming essential in modernizing revenue cycle management. The report confirmed this trend, stating that firms are increasingly leveraging AI and automation to uncover revenue opportunities and reduce manual processes.
The Firms Excelling in EHR-Specific Revenue Cycle Optimization
KLAS found that the majority of RCO engagements focus on Epic, with Guidehouse, Chartis, and Tegria leading in Epic-related optimization projects.
- Guidehouse was rated the highest overall, with clients citing its deep Epic knowledge and strong partnership approach.
- Chartis, which strengthened its Epic expertise through its 2023 acquisition of Chi-Matic, has consistently delivered high-value engagements. Clients noted that even during the acquisition transition, the firm maintained strong project execution.
- Tegria, which acquired Bluetree Network, has also emerged as a strong Epic optimization partner.
For Oracle Health clients, Signature Performance stands out as the firm with the most validated Oracle Health projects. Since acquiring Atwater Solutions in 2022, the firm has strengthened its Oracle Health expertise, particularly in optimizing Soarian patient accounting systems. Clients also noted that Signature Performance offers competitive pricing compared to other consulting firms, the report stated.
Additionally, Huron and Healthrise were highlighted for their expertise in MEDITECH. The report stated that Huron is especially well-regarded for its deep understanding of MEDITECH systems, with clients reporting that the firm’s knowledge even surpasses that of the EHR vendor itself.
Finding High-Value Areas for Revenue Optimization
The ability to identify and target high-value revenue cycle improvements was another critical factor in client satisfaction. Among the firms excelling in this area:
- Huron—Rated highest for uncovering revenue opportunities, with deep domain expertise and a strong bench of senior consultants.
- Chartis—Clients praised its ability to combine strategy with execution, ensuring long-term financial improvements.
- Healthrise—Recognized for addressing back-end revenue cycle challenges, particularly in accounts receivable (A/R) and net revenue optimization.
- Impact Advisors—Well-regarded for its software expertise and data-driven approach to identifying revenue gaps.
One VP of revenue cycle shared, “Impact Advisors found four times the revenue opportunity we expected. Their recommendations have significantly improved our collections and reimbursement processes.”
Additionally, clients emphasized the importance of strong partnerships. Firms like Nordic and Deloitte were noted for their flexibility and responsiveness, with clients reporting that both firms provide proactive recommendations and quick problem resolution.
The Role of AI and Automation in Revenue Cycle Success
The report highlighted that automation and AI-driven analytics are playing an increasingly crucial role in RCO engagements. Firms are using AI-powered tools to identify inefficiencies, flag revenue leakage, and streamline claims processing.
Firms that have successfully integrated AI-driven insights into their revenue cycle strategies include:
- Softek, which uses its Panther software to detect revenue inefficiencies and provide data-backed recommendations.
- Deloitte, which combines its cross-industry AI expertise with healthcare-specific revenue cycle needs. Clients reported that Deloitte’s flexibility and speed set it apart from other firms.
One CFO stated, “We have tools and metrics now, and we meet regularly to track our revenue cycle performance. The outcomes speak for themselves.”
Take It Away
For IT executives at health systems considering EHR revenue cycle optimization, the report offers key takeaways:
- Firm selection matters—Guidehouse, Chartis, and Tegria are top-ranked for Epic optimization, while Signature Performance leads in Oracle Health projects.
- AI and automation are transforming revenue cycle management—Firms using AI-powered insights and automation are helping organizations find hidden revenue opportunities.
- Strategic insight is just as important as execution—Huron, Healthrise, and Impact Advisors excel at identifying high-value areas for financial improvement.
- Strong partnerships drive success—The most satisfied clients emphasized that the right consulting firm acts as an extension of their team, not just an external advisor.
As health systems face ongoing financial challenges, EHR revenue cycle optimization remains a vital investment for securing long-term revenue stability. One VP of revenue cycle summed it up: “The firm we chose helped us unlock financial improvements we never knew were possible. The difference is measurable, and the impact is lasting.”
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