Application Service Provider (ASP) and Software-As-A-Service (SaaS):
An ASP deploys, hosts and manages software from a centrally managed facility. It is a software distribution model in which applications are hosted by a vendor or service provider and made available to customers over a network (WAN, Internet). Applications are delivered over networks on a subscription fee/rental basis. This model is also been referred to as “software-as-a-service” or “SaaS”.
EHR Software Systems Architecture
EHR software is either installed directly on your computer servers on-site at your practice (“client-server”) or is located in the “cloud” that you access via the Internet (SaaS or “cloud-based”). The systems architecture of your EHR system is an important decision to make, because they differ in advantages and disadvantages. Some physicians prefer client-server based EHR software since they feel more comfortable with HIPAA compliance when they control all the underlying data on their systems, despite the need to maintain and upgrade these systems periodically. Other physicians choose cloud-based or SaaS EHR software because it can be accessed almost anywhere through the Internet. However, this type of system is reliant on Internet connection, so you need to make sure the quality and consistency of your Internet service is high. It is worth researching all the advantages and disadvantages of each type, to make sure you choose software with the systems architecture that best matches your needs of your practice.
Need help finding EHR software for your practice?
Finding the appropriate EMR or EHR software for your practice can be a daunting task. There are literally hundreds of choices available and many factors to consider. The quality and work flow of your practice depend on your making the right selection, as does your ability to collect payments from the U.S. government. To make matters worse, most information sources out there utilize a myriad of abbreviations and acronyms further complicating the process and causing frustration. To help minimize this, each Thursday MedicalRecords.com Blog will publish a relevant abbreviation or acronym you will come across during your EMR software search!
Start your EMR search with MRCbase, our EMR software directory.