Top 5 EMR Systems for Surgery Centers: Features, Costs & Considerations

Choosing the right Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system is one of the most critical decisions for any ambulatory surgery center (ASC). The right platform streamlines workflows, ensures compliance, and improves patient outcomes. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which EMR system is right for your surgical facility?

In this article, we explore the top 5 EMR systems used in surgery centers today — comparing features, costs, and what makes each one stand out.

1. Nextech

Best for: Specialty-driven surgery centers (ophthalmology, plastic surgery, dermatology)

Key Features:

• Intuitive charting for surgical workflows

• Fully integrated practice management and revenue cycle tools

• Customizable templates for pre-op, intra-op, and post-op documentation

• HIPAA-compliant patient portal

Cost:Starting around $400–$800/month per provider, plus implementation fees which can range from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on complexity.

Why ASCs Like It:Nextech is known for its deep customization and ability to mold itself around specialty-driven needs.

2. ModMed (Modernizing Medicine – EMA for ASCs)

Best for: Orthopedic, ENT, and GI surgical practices

Key Features:

• Specialty-specific EMR workflows

• Built-in MIPS/MACRA tracking

• Real-time analytics dashboard

• Cloud-based platform with iPad compatibility

Cost:Typically $600–$1,000/month per provider, with startup and data migration fees between $5,000–20,000.

Why ASCs Like It:ModMed stands out for its ease of use, mobility, and surgical-specific workflows, making it ideal for high-volume centers.

3. athenahealth

Best for: Multi-specialty surgery centers with a need for integrated billing and reporting

Key Features:

• Cloud-based with 24/7 access

• Built-in payer rules engine for clean claims

• Seamless scheduling and eligibility verification

• Strong interoperability features

Cost:Uses a percentage-of-collections model, often around 4–8% of monthly collected revenue, with minimal upfront fees.

Why ASCs Like It:athenahealth’s all-in-one platform reduces administrative burdens and optimizes reimbursement, ideal for centers with tight back-office staffing.

4. eClinicalWorks (eCW)

Best for: ASCs seeking a robust, budget-conscious solution

Key Features:

• Integrated EMR and practice management

• Telehealth and patient engagement tools

• Customizable surgery documentation templates

• e-prescribing and order tracking

Cost:Starts at $449/month per provider for the cloud version. On-premise options available with additional costs.

Why ASCs Like It:eCW balances affordability with a wide range of tools, making it great for independent surgery centers or start-ups.

5. Cerner Ambulatory (now Oracle Health)

Best for: Large surgery centers or hospital-affiliated ASCs

Key Features:

• Enterprise-level EMR functionality

• Seamless integration with hospital systems and imaging

• Advanced clinical decision support

• Extensive customization and reporting

Cost:Higher price point, typically $25,000+ upfront and $1,200+/month per provider, depending on scope.

Why ASCs Like It:Cerner offers advanced enterprise-level tools, preferred by larger ASCs with complex workflows or health system affiliations.

Key Considerations When Choosing an EMR for Your ASC:

• Specialty Support: Ensure the system supports your surgical specialty.

• Ease of Use: Look for intuitive interfaces and mobile options for surgeons.

• Interoperability: The EMR should integrate with labs, imaging, and referring providers.

• Billing Integration: A strong revenue cycle management component is essential.

• Compliance: Built-in tools for MIPS, MACRA, and HIPAA are a must.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right EMR for your surgery center requires balancing features, cost, scalability, and regulatory compliance. Whether you're a high-volume orthopedic ASC or a boutique cosmetic surgery practice, there is a tailored solution to fit your workflow and budget.

Still unsure? A professional consultation or EMR demo trial is often the best way to experience firsthand how each system will perform in your surgical setting.