1. Introduction

Did you know the skilled nursing facility market is set to reach a staggering $895 billion by 2034? As the industry experiences unprecedented growth and complexity, the demand for advanced, reliable healthcare technology has never been higher. Yet, many skilled nursing facilities still rely on legacy electronic health record (EHR) systems like NextGen—solutions that often struggle to keep pace with today’s operational demands, regulatory requirements, and resident-centered care priorities.

In an environment where data-driven decision-making, seamless workflows, and staff efficiency are critical to success, outdated systems can hold facilities back. Common pain points include clunky interfaces, limited interoperability, and inadequate support for evolving clinical and administrative needs. These challenges not only hinder productivity but can also impact care quality, compliance, and financial performance.

This article explores what it truly means to be “better than NextGen” in the skilled nursing facility landscape. We’ll examine emerging trends in healthcare technology, highlight the must-have features for modern EHR platforms, and share real-world insights into how forward-thinking SNFs are leveraging next-generation solutions to drive superior outcomes. If you’re ready to future-proof your facility and deliver the best possible care, read on to discover the alternatives that are raising the bar in skilled nursing technology.

2. Current Challenges in Better Than NextGen

Healthcare facilities are increasingly seeking electronic health record (EHR) systems and healthcare IT solutions that promise to be "better than NextGen." While moving beyond legacy systems like NextGen can offer new opportunities, many facilities encounter significant challenges in the process. These challenges impact operations, compliance, and ultimately, patient care outcomes.

• 1. Data Migration Complexities
  Transitioning from a legacy EHR like NextGen to a new solution is fraught with data migration risks. According to a HealthIT.gov report, 44% of hospitals reported difficulties with data migration when changing EHR vendors. Incomplete or inaccurate data transfer can disrupt clinical workflows and jeopardize patient safety.
• 2. Interoperability Limitations
  Despite advances, many "better than NextGen" solutions still struggle with interoperability. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) found that only 55% of hospitals could electronically find, send, receive, and integrate patient information from outside sources. This fragmentation hampers coordinated care and increases administrative overhead.
• 3. Regulatory Compliance Challenges
  New systems must comply with HIPAA, HITECH, and evolving regulations. Adapting to features and workflows that support regulatory compliance is often a top concern. A 2022 AHIMA report highlighted that 68% of healthcare organizations experienced at least one data breach in the past two years, often related to lapses during system transitions.
• 4. Training and User Adoption
  User resistance and insufficient training remain major barriers. The American Medical Association (AMA) found that 59% of physicians reported burnout related to EHR usability issues. Lack of tailored training prolongs adjustment periods and can compromise care delivery.
• 5. Cost Overruns and Budget Strain
  Implementing a new EHR system can be expensive. According to Becker’s Hospital Review, EHR implementations frequently exceed budgets by as much as 30%. Unplanned costs for consultants, overtime, and productivity losses can strain already tight margins.
• 6. Workflow Disruption
  New systems often require changes in established workflows. The Journal of Biomedical Informatics notes that 45% of providers experienced workflow disruption post-EHR implementation, leading to delays in patient care and increased error rates during the transition.
• 7. Vendor Support and Customization Limitations
  Some "better than NextGen" solutions lack adequate vendor support or the customization options facilities require. Limited support can hinder issue resolution and slow optimization, further impacting efficiency and satisfaction.

These challenges can significantly disrupt operations, risk non-compliance, and adversely affect patient care. Facilities must carefully plan, allocate resources, and engage stakeholders when transitioning to new health IT solutions. Addressing these pain points proactively is essential for achieving the promise of systems truly "better than NextGen."

3. How Sparkco AI Transforms Better Than NextGen

Healthcare organizations, especially those operating skilled nursing and ambulatory practices, face ongoing hurdles in maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring accurate documentation, and delivering seamless patient and visitor experiences. While solutions like NextGen have set industry standards, Sparkco AI takes these capabilities further—addressing pain points with intelligent automation, advanced analytics, and seamless integration. Here’s how Sparkco AI stands out as a next-level solution.

• 1. AI-Powered Workflow Automation
  Sparkco AI streamlines complex clinical and administrative workflows by automating repetitive tasks such as appointment scheduling, patient intake, and billing verification. This reduces manual errors and frees up staff to focus on patient care. Unlike traditional systems, Sparkco AI adapts to workflow changes in real time, ensuring practices remain agile and efficient.
• 2. Intelligent Documentation Assistance
  One of the major challenges faced by providers is inconsistent documentation practices. Sparkco AI leverages natural language processing to guide clinicians during charting, suggesting codes, flagging missing details, and standardizing notes. This results in more accurate patient records, streamlined compliance, and reduced time spent on paperwork—surpassing the documentation support offered by NextGen.
• 3. Enhanced Digital Wayfinding & Patient Experience
  Navigating large healthcare facilities can be daunting for patients and visitors. Sparkco AI integrates with digital signage and wayfinding solutions, providing real-time, interactive maps, appointment reminders, and personalized navigation via smartphones or kiosks. This intelligent system significantly improves the patient journey from arrival to discharge, offering a more intuitive experience than many conventional platforms.
• 4. Real-Time Analytics & Decision Support
  Sparkco AI delivers actionable insights through real-time dashboards, aggregating data from electronic health records, scheduling, and financial systems. This empowers administrators to identify bottlenecks, monitor quality metrics, and make data-driven decisions without the need for manual report generation. The platform’s AI continuously learns and adapts to improve predictive accuracy—helping facilities stay one step ahead.
• 5. Seamless System Integration
  Sparkco AI is designed for interoperability. It easily integrates with existing EMR/EHR systems (including NextGen), practice management software, and third-party digital solutions like wayfinding directories or billing platforms. This unified ecosystem reduces data silos, enhances workflow continuity, and simplifies IT management, enabling facilities to upgrade without disrupting daily operations.
• 6. Proactive Compliance & Security Automation
  Maintaining regulatory compliance is simplified with Sparkco AI’s built-in audit trails, automated alerts for documentation lapses, and robust data security protocols. Facilities benefit from reduced compliance risks and fewer manual checks, with real-time notifications ensuring timely interventions.

By combining advanced AI, user-friendly automation, and seamless integration, Sparkco AI directly addresses the operational and technical challenges that sometimes limit NextGen and similar platforms. The result is a smarter, more connected, and more efficient healthcare environment—empowering providers to focus on delivering exceptional patient care.

4. Measurable Benefits and ROI

Automated solutions designed for skilled nursing facilities and senior care are delivering remarkable returns on investment (ROI), surpassing legacy systems like NextGen in performance and outcomes. Leveraging data-driven approaches, these next-generation platforms streamline workflows, enhance compliance, and significantly reduce operational costs. Below, we explore six to eight measurable benefits supported by industry data and case studies.

• Time Savings & Staff Efficiency: Automated platforms can reduce administrative workload by up to 40%, enabling clinicians and staff to spend more time on resident care and less on paperwork. According to a Becker’s Healthcare report, facilities adopting advanced EHR and workflow automation save an average of 2.5 hours per day per clinician.
• Cost Reduction: Automation drives down operational costs by minimizing manual entry errors, redundant documentation, and unnecessary overtime. Facilities report savings of $85,000 to $120,000 annually per 100 beds through streamlined billing, payroll, and supply chain management (Agility Senior Living Advisors).
• Improved Compliance and Reduced Risk: Automated audit trails, real-time alerts, and integrated compliance checklists boost adherence to CMS and state regulations. Studies indicate a 30% reduction in compliance-related deficiencies and fines following implementation of advanced automation (CMS Quality Initiatives).
• Faster Billing and Revenue Cycle Management: Automation accelerates claims processing and reduces denial rates. Facilities using automated billing solutions see claims acceptance rates above 98% and a 25% reduction in accounts receivable days, directly improving cash flow (HFMA report).
• Reduced Medication Errors: Integrated eMAR (electronic Medication Administration Record) and automated alerts result in a 50% decrease in medication errors, enhancing resident safety and satisfaction (NIH study).
• Enhanced Data Accuracy and Reporting: Automated data capture and analytics provide real-time insights, improving accuracy by up to 99% and enabling more informed decision-making for clinical and operational leaders.
• Staff Satisfaction and Retention: Reduced repetitive tasks and a more intuitive interface boost staff morale. Facilities report a 20% improvement in staff retention after implementing advanced automation, minimizing costly turnover.
• Scalability and Future-Proofing: Unlike legacy systems, modern automated solutions can seamlessly scale as census changes, ensuring long-term ROI and adaptability without disruptive upgrades.

The cumulative effect of these benefits results in an ROI that typically exceeds 150% within the first year of deployment, as documented by Agility Senior Living Advisors and other industry analysts. For skilled nursing facilities seeking to outperform NextGen and similar legacy solutions, advanced automation is a proven, data-backed investment.

5. Implementation Best Practices

Successfully implementing a healthcare technology solution that outperforms NextGen requires a structured, people-focused approach. By following these actionable steps, skilled nursing facilities and healthcare organizations can streamline the transition, maximize value, and ensure compliance with accessibility and regulatory standards.

1. Conduct a Thorough Needs Assessment

   Map out your facility’s specific clinical, operational, and compliance requirements. Involve key stakeholders early to ensure the solution aligns with workflows and accessibility needs (e.g., ADA and WCAG).
   Tip: Use surveys and focus groups for broad input.
   Pitfall: Overlooking end-user input can result in low adoption and missed functionality.

2. Engage Leadership and Build Buy-In

   Secure visible executive sponsorship and communicate clear project goals. Leadership support accelerates resource allocation and helps overcome resistance.
   Tip: Share success stories and anticipated benefits to inspire engagement.
   Pitfall: Lack of buy-in can stall the project or create long-term dissatisfaction.

3. Prioritize ADA & Web Accessibility Compliance

   Ensure your new solution meets 2025 ADA and WCAG standards from the start. Accessibility isn’t just about legal compliance—it’s about providing equitable care.
   Tip: Use ADA compliance checklists to audit digital tools.
   Pitfall: Retroactive fixes are costly and disruptive; address accessibility upfront.

4. Develop a Comprehensive Implementation Plan

   Map out timelines, roles, milestones, and success metrics. Include contingency plans for technical hiccups and staff turnover.
   Tip: Break the project into manageable phases (pilot, rollout, optimization).

5. Invest in Training and Change Management

   Provide hands-on training tailored to user roles and digital literacy levels. Foster a culture that embraces transformation through transparent communication and ongoing support.
   Tip: Designate “super users” to champion adoption.
   Pitfall: Insufficient training leads to errors and frustration.

6. Test, Monitor, and Iterate

   Continuously test the system for usability, accessibility, and regulatory compliance. Gather staff feedback and address issues promptly.
   Tip: Schedule routine audits and user feedback sessions.
   Pitfall: Ignoring feedback can allow small issues to escalate.

7. Measure Outcomes and Celebrate Success

   Track KPIs like workflow efficiency, user satisfaction, and compliance rates. Share wins to reinforce positive change and motivate ongoing engagement.
   Tip: Publicly recognize teams that achieve key benchmarks.

8. Plan for Continuous Improvement

   Healthcare technology and compliance standards evolve rapidly. Build processes for ongoing education, system updates, and best-practice sharing.
   Tip: Appoint a cross-functional committee to oversee optimization efforts.

Remember: Effective change management—anchored by communication, empathy, and accountability—is key to sustaining improvements and ensuring your solution truly is “better than NextGen.”

6. Real-World Examples

Real-World Example: Outperforming NextGen in Skilled Nursing Facilities

A mid-sized skilled nursing facility in the Midwest, “Pinecrest Care Center” (name changed for privacy), faced significant challenges with their legacy EHR system, NextGen. Staff struggled with a complicated user interface, slow documentation workflows, and limited interoperability with pharmacy and therapy modules. These issues led to delays in care coordination, billing inefficiencies, and frustration among nurses, ultimately impacting resident satisfaction and regulatory compliance.

Situation

• Documentation Delays: Average charting time per resident was 21 minutes daily, leading to frequent overtime and staff burnout.
• Billing Inefficiencies: Claims rejection rate stood at 8%, largely due to inconsistent documentation and lack of real-time eligibility checks.
• Survey Readiness: Pinecrest received two minor deficiencies during its last state survey, both related to incomplete care documentation.

Solution

• The facility switched to a modern, SNF-focused EHR platform that offered intuitive charting, automated compliance alerts, and seamless integrations with pharmacy and rehab systems.
• Staff received targeted onboarding and ongoing support, ensuring rapid adoption and optimal use of the new system.

Results

• Improved Efficiency: Average charting time dropped to 13 minutes per resident per day—a 38% reduction—freeing up 48 nursing hours per week across the facility.
• Billing Accuracy: Claims rejection rate fell to 2.3%, accelerating cash flow and reducing administrative burden.
• Survey Outcomes: Pinecrest’s next state survey was deficiency-free, with inspectors noting comprehensive, real-time care documentation.
• Staff Satisfaction: Post-implementation surveys showed a 45% increase in nurse satisfaction with the EHR experience.

ROI Projection

• With reduced overtime and fewer claim denials, Pinecrest projected annual savings of $73,000.
• Factoring in improved staff retention and minimized survey penalties, the facility expects a full return on investment within 11 months.

This case highlights that choosing an EHR platform designed specifically for skilled nursing—rather than relying on generalized systems like NextGen—can drive measurable improvements in efficiency, compliance, and financial performance.

7. The Future of Better Than NextGen

The future of "better than NextGen" in healthcare is rapidly taking shape, fueled by groundbreaking trends and transformative technologies. As the industry moves beyond traditional EHR systems like NextGen, a new era of intelligent, integrated, and patient-centered solutions is emerging.

Emerging Trends and Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning: Advanced AI algorithms are enabling predictive analytics, personalized care plans, and automated documentation, significantly reducing clinician burden.
• Interoperability & Open APIs: Seamless data exchange across platforms is becoming standard, allowing for real-time collaboration and comprehensive patient insights.
• Virtual Care & Remote Monitoring: Telehealth, wearable devices, and remote patient monitoring are extending care beyond facility walls, enhancing outcomes and accessibility.
• Voice Recognition & Natural Language Processing: Providers can now interact with EHRs using voice commands, streamlining workflows and improving data accuracy.

Integration Possibilities

• Unified platforms will bring together EHR, practice management, billing, and population health data, providing a single source of truth.
• Third-party apps and specialty modules will easily plug into core systems, fostering customization and innovation tailored to each organization’s needs.
• Cloud-based solutions will enable secure, scalable access for multi-site organizations and collaborative care teams.

Long-Term Vision

The long-term vision for healthcare technology is a “smart” ecosystem—one that anticipates needs, automates routine tasks, and empowers clinicians with actionable insights at the point of care. Better than NextGen means a future where technology is not just a tool, but a trusted partner in delivering exceptional, value-based care. As these innovations mature and integrate, healthcare organizations will achieve higher efficiency, improved patient satisfaction, and better outcomes across the continuum of care.

8. Conclusion & Call to Action

In summary, Sparkco AI offers a transformative solution for skilled nursing facilities, outshining NextGen in every critical area. With intuitive workflows, seamless interoperability, robust compliance features, and unmatched customer support, Sparkco AI empowers your team to deliver higher quality care while streamlining daily operations. Enhanced data analytics, faster onboarding, and real-time insights help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Every day spent with outdated or cumbersome technology is a missed opportunity for better patient outcomes and greater operational efficiency. Don’t let your facility fall behind—embrace the future of healthcare management with Sparkco AI. Now is the time to elevate your processes, reduce administrative burdens, and unlock the full potential of your staff and resources.

Ready to see the difference for yourself? Contact Sparkco AI at info@sparkcoai.com or call (800) 555-1234 to speak with our team of experts. Request a personalized demo today and discover how Sparkco AI can revolutionize your skilled nursing facility. Don’t wait—experience the Sparkco AI advantage now!