subject: Difference Between Web-based And Client/server Emr [print this page] Defining web based EMR and client/server EMR
Web Based EMR: EMR healthcare industry software when hosted by application service provider or also known as ASP has low initial cost because the software license is leashed on a subscription basis. ASP systems are also known as SAAS EMR meaning software as a service or web-based healthcare software. In fact all the three terms or references are quite interchangeable and can be called as web-based, ASP or SAAS. Those medical practices looking to save on the initial investment and on the hardware requirements of client/server architecture will benefit from such a medical software.Those looking to pay indefinitely smaller payments each month will find web based EMR a more suitable option. Ideally, this option is ideal for small medical facilities.
Client/Server EMR: Client/Server EMR is healthcare software that is installed on the existing hardware or even workstations of the client. This is a multi-featured EMR software that is perfect for long term office based medical facilities and physicians.
Main differences between web-based and client/server EMR healthcare software solutions
Where the client/server model is concerned it may be an expensive affair at the start but one is guaranteed to recover ROI in the long run.
The Internet speed may suffer, but in case of client/server EMR, one will not face any such bandwidth or speed issues. Everyone is aware that client-server software provides a richer interface that any day overshadows web-based software in terms of ease of use and number of clicks.
In client/server healthcare software, the medical practice has complete control over the security of the EMR data, where as in web-based EMR, there is always a risk of data being accessed by unauthorized people and data getting lost.
Since EMR is stored centrally, therefore it is much more convenient for EMR backup, however in the case of web-based EMR, if the vendor shuts shop and has not provided the backup, then all the data can be lost.
With client/server EMR it is possible to customize whereas the same is not the case with web based EMR because different users can access the host server.
Client/server models also enable quick response times, as it is not dependent on the Internet connection and undoubtedly the data from the server to the client is transferred in a faster manner.
The new client/server systems not only have complete control over the data but can also be accessed from any Internet browser.
In a nutshell, the choice of selecting between client/server or web based medical software boils down to the requirements and priorities. Eventually, the medical practice has to consult healthcare consulting team and then decide on which type of healthcare software solutions to select from.