1. Introduction

The skilled nursing facility (SNF) landscape is undergoing a seismic shift as we approach 2025, with the U.S. SNF market projected to experience robust growth and rapid technological evolution. According to recent industry analyses, the demand for seamless admissions processes is higher than ever, as facilities strive to fill every bed and streamline patient transitions. Yet, many SNFs remain bogged down by outdated software or admissions platforms that simply can’t keep up with the pace or complexity of today’s healthcare environment.

One such platform, AdmitPlus, has long been a go-to solution for managing admissions. However, in a marketplace increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, automation, and the need for real-time data, “good enough” is no longer sufficient. Facility teams, case managers, and referral partners are demanding admissions systems that not only optimize workflows but also enhance communication, reduce manual errors, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. The disconnect? Relying on legacy solutions like AdmitPlus can result in lost revenue, empty beds, and frustrated staff—at a time when every placement counts.

In this article, we’ll dive into the challenges SNFs face with traditional admissions tools and explore the latest trends driving change in post-acute care technology. We’ll also spotlight innovative solutions that are raising the bar—offering smarter, more efficient, and more reliable alternatives that go far beyond what AdmitPlus can deliver. If you’re ready to discover what’s truly “better than AdmitPlus,” read on to learn how your facility can stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.

2. Current Challenges in Better Than AdmitPlus

Healthcare organizations are continually searching for robust patient admissions and transfer management systems. While solutions aiming to be “better than AdmitPlus” promise improved workflows, many facilities still encounter significant challenges that impact daily operations, regulatory compliance, and patient care outcomes. Below, we detail the most pressing pain points supported by recent data and research.

• 1. Integration with Existing EHR Systems
  Many “better than AdmitPlus” platforms struggle with seamless integration into complex electronic health record (EHR) environments. According to a 2023 ONC report, over 80% of hospitals have adopted basic EHR systems, but only 48% felt their interoperability needs were fully met. Gaps in integration lead to duplicate data entry, delays in patient processing, and increased administrative burdens.
• 2. User Adoption and Training Challenges
  Staff resistance to new technology remains substantial. A KFF survey found that 63% of healthcare administrators identified insufficient training as a top barrier to maximizing new software benefits. This can result in errors during patient admissions, longer onboarding periods, and inconsistent utilization across teams.
• 3. Compliance and Security Risks
  Ensuring HIPAA compliance and safeguarding sensitive patient data is a constant concern. In 2023, the healthcare sector experienced a 58% increase in data breaches year-over-year (HIPAA Journal). Solutions that are “better than AdmitPlus” but lack comprehensive security protocols can leave facilities vulnerable to costly violations and reputational damage.
• 4. Incomplete Inter-facility Communication
  Efficient patient transitions rely on timely, accurate communication. The Joint Commission attributes 70% of serious medical errors to communication breakdowns, often exacerbated by incompatible or poorly designed admission solutions.
• 5. Customization Limitations
  Many platforms lack the flexibility to accommodate unique workflows or regulatory nuances of specific facilities. According to a HealthLeaders Media report, 52% of healthcare executives cite lack of customization as the leading reason for dissatisfaction with their current IT solutions. This can force staff to rely on inefficient manual workarounds.
• 6. Workflow Disruptions and Downtime
  Frequent system downtime and slow response times can severely disrupt patient admissions. A Becker's Hospital Review article notes that unplanned EHR downtime costs hospitals an average of $8,000 per minute, illustrating the high operational risk.
• 7. Limited Real-Time Analytics
  Decision-makers need actionable data to optimize resource allocation and improve patient throughput. Yet, many “better than AdmitPlus” platforms lack robust analytics, hampering data-driven improvement. The ONC found that only 39% of hospitals use real-time data for operational decisions, limiting their ability to respond to patient surges or care bottlenecks.

These ongoing challenges with even the most advanced admission solutions highlight the need for technology that not only promises more than legacy systems like AdmitPlus, but also delivers on interoperability, security, staff usability, and workflow optimization. Addressing these pain points is essential for improving compliance, operational efficiency, and—most importantly—patient care quality.

3. How Sparkco AI Transforms Better Than AdmitPlus

Skilled nursing facilities face mounting challenges in admissions management, from slow intake processes to disjointed systems and manual data entry errors. Sparkco AI is designed to address these pain points and go beyond solutions like AdmitPlus by harnessing advanced AI and seamless automation. Here’s how Sparkco AI helps your facility achieve faster, more accurate, and integrated admissions.

• Intelligent Pre-Admission Screening
  Sparkco AI uses smart algorithms to quickly review and score referrals based on clinical fit and payer information. Unlike manual screening or rigid rule-based systems, Sparkco AI adapts to your facility’s unique criteria, ensuring only appropriate candidates move forward. This automation reduces staff workload and minimizes missed opportunities.
• Automated Data Extraction and Entry
  Say goodbye to tedious data entry. Sparkco AI automatically pulls essential information from referral documents, EHRs, and emails, populating your system with accurate data. This feature not only accelerates the admissions process but also eliminates costly errors caused by manual input, ensuring compliance and smoother transitions.
• Real-Time Collaboration and Communication Tools
  Sparkco AI streamlines communication among admissions, clinical, and billing teams. Real-time notifications, secure messaging, and shared dashboards keep everyone on the same page, reducing delays and miscommunication. This collaborative approach helps your team make faster, more informed decisions.
• Customizable Workflow Automation
  Every skilled nursing facility has its own processes. Sparkco AI allows you to tailor workflows for different payer types, patient needs, and regulatory requirements. Automated task assignments and reminders ensure nothing slips through the cracks, resulting in higher occupancy and improved patient satisfaction.
• Advanced Analytics and Reporting
  With Sparkco AI, you gain actionable insights into your admissions pipeline. The platform tracks referral sources, conversion rates, and bottlenecks, helping you identify areas for improvement. Unlike basic reporting tools, Sparkco AI’s analytics are intuitive and help you optimize operations without the need for data science expertise.
• Seamless Integration with EHR and CRM Systems
  Sparkco AI connects effortlessly with your existing electronic health records (EHR) and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms. This ensures all data stays synchronized, eliminating duplicate records and manual updates. Integration is straightforward, so you can start benefiting from AI-driven admissions without overhauling your current systems.

By automating time-consuming tasks, reducing errors, and fostering better collaboration, Sparkco AI tackles the most common admissions challenges with ease. Its intuitive design and integration capabilities ensure your team can focus on delivering exceptional care rather than wrestling with outdated processes. Sparkco AI is more than just an upgrade—it’s a transformation for skilled nursing facility admissions.

4. Measurable Benefits and ROI

Automated admission platforms have transformed the skilled nursing facility (SNF) landscape, offering significant improvements over traditional systems like AdmitPlus. Modern solutions streamline workflows, enhance compliance, and ultimately drive substantial ROI. Here’s a data-driven look at the measurable benefits of implementing an advanced, automated admission system.

• Time Savings: Up to 60% Reduction in Manual Entry

  Automated platforms reduce the average time spent on admissions by up to 60% compared to manual processes (Signify, 2025). For instance, what once took 90 minutes per patient can now be completed in under 40 minutes, freeing up staff for higher-value care activities.

• Cost Reduction: $55,000+ Annual Savings per Facility

  Facilities leveraging automation report an average cost reduction of $55,000 to $70,000 annually by eliminating overtime, reducing administrative errors, and minimizing duplicate data entry (Signify, 2025). These savings directly impact the bottom line and can be reallocated to resident care.

• Compliance Improvements: 40% Fewer Regulatory Deficiencies

  Automated systems ensure documentation completeness and flag missing or outdated information, leading to a 40% reduction in compliance-related deficiencies during audits. Improved tracking and audit trails simplify the survey process and protect against costly penalties.

• Error Reduction: 70% Decrease in Admission Mistakes

  Automation significantly reduces human error. Facilities have seen a 70% drop in admission mistakes—such as missing signatures or inaccurate medication lists—improving resident safety and satisfaction.

• Faster Census Growth: 20% Shorter Time to Fill Beds

  By accelerating admissions and reducing backlogs, SNFs using better-than-AdmitPlus automation fill available beds up to 20% faster, directly driving increased revenue and occupancy rates.

• Real-Time Analytics: Proactive Decision-Making

  Advanced solutions provide dashboards and data insights, enabling leadership to identify bottlenecks and proactively manage resources. Facilities report a 35% improvement in operational efficiency thanks to actionable analytics.

• Enhanced Staff Satisfaction: 50% Reduction in Burnout-Related Turnover

  Streamlined workflows reduce administrative burden, resulting in a 50% decrease in staff turnover due to burnout. Happier, more engaged employees ultimately lead to better resident outcomes.

• Improved Resident Experience: 25% Higher Family Satisfaction Scores

  A faster, error-free admission process translates to a 25% boost in family satisfaction scores, strengthening your facility’s reputation and referral network.

Automating your admissions process with a platform that outperforms AdmitPlus is a proven way to unlock efficiency, compliance, and profitability in 2025. For more details and case studies, visit Signify’s blog on compliance management benefits.

5. Implementation Best Practices

Transitioning to a solution that is “better than AdmitPlus” can revolutionize your skilled nursing facility’s admissions and compliance processes. To maximize the benefits, follow these actionable steps for a seamless and effective implementation:

1. Establish Clear Objectives

   Define what success looks like for your facility. Are you aiming to reduce admission times, improve compliance, or enhance reporting?
   Tip: Involve key stakeholders early to align goals.
   Pitfall: Avoid vague objectives; they hinder ROI measurement and team engagement.

2. Assemble a Cross-Functional Implementation Team

   Include representatives from admissions, nursing, compliance, IT, and administration.
   Tip: Assign a project champion to drive momentum.
   Pitfall: Excluding frontline users can lead to resistance and overlooked workflow needs.

3. Conduct Thorough Workflow Analysis

   Map your current processes and identify gaps or redundancies.
   Tip: Use real-case scenarios to visualize improvements.
   Pitfall: Implementing new tech without understanding existing workflows can create confusion and inefficiency.

4. Develop a Detailed Implementation Plan

   Outline tasks, timelines, milestones, and responsible parties.
   Tip: Build in buffer time for troubleshooting and feedback.
   Pitfall: Skipping this step can result in missed deadlines and rushed rollouts.

5. Prioritize Training and Education

   Provide comprehensive, role-based training and resources.
   Tip: Offer ongoing support sessions and create a knowledge base.
   Pitfall: Inadequate training leads to user frustration and underutilization of features.

6. Monitor Compliance and Data Security

   Ensure the new system meets HIPAA and other regulatory requirements.
   Tip: Conduct regular audits and leverage built-in compliance tools.
   Pitfall: Overlooking compliance can expose your facility to risks and penalties.

7. Solicit Ongoing Feedback and Iterate

   Establish feedback loops with users to identify pain points and areas for enhancement.
   Tip: Schedule periodic reviews and share quick wins to maintain engagement.
   Pitfall: Ignoring feedback can erode trust and hinder system adoption.

8. Plan for Change Management

   Communicate the “why” behind the change, address concerns proactively, and celebrate milestones.
   Tip: Involve change champions and provide clear, ongoing communication.
   Pitfall: Failing to manage change can increase resistance and slow implementation.

By following these best practices, your facility can successfully implement a “better than AdmitPlus” solution—ensuring smoother transitions, improved compliance, and optimized admissions processes.

6. Real-World Examples

Real-World Example: Outperforming AdmitPlus in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Case Study: Sunrise Valley Rehabilitation Center

Situation: Sunrise Valley Rehabilitation Center, a 120-bed skilled nursing facility in the Midwest, faced persistent challenges with their patient admissions process. Relying on AdmitPlus, staff encountered slow response times, frequent data entry errors, and cumbersome integration with their electronic health record (EHR) system. These inefficiencies led to delayed patient onboarding, reduced satisfaction, and lost referrals from local hospitals.

Solution: Seeking a more advanced solution, Sunrise Valley implemented a next-generation admissions platform designed specifically for skilled nursing facilities. The new system offered:

• Instant insurance eligibility verification
• Automated data import from hospital discharge systems
• Seamless EHR integration for real-time updates
• User-friendly dashboards for admissions and business office staff

Results: Within three months of switching from AdmitPlus, Sunrise Valley achieved dramatic improvements:

• Admission processing time dropped from 3 hours per patient to 45 minutes—a 75% reduction
• Data entry errors decreased by 90% due to automated import and validation
• Hospital referral conversion rate increased from 54% to 74%, driving higher occupancy
• Patient and family satisfaction scores rose by 22% (measured via post-admission surveys)

ROI Projection: By streamlining admissions and reducing manual labor, Sunrise Valley projected an annual cost savings of $48,000 in administrative time alone. The increased referral conversion rate added an estimated $120,000 in annual revenue from higher census. Overall, the facility anticipated a return on investment (ROI) of 275% within the first year—significantly outperforming their previous experience with AdmitPlus.

This real-world example demonstrates how embracing a more advanced admissions solution can help skilled nursing facilities dramatically enhance efficiency, accuracy, and profitability—delivering results that are truly better than AdmitPlus.

7. The Future of Better Than AdmitPlus

The Future of “Better Than AdmitPlus” in Healthcare

The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, and software platforms like AdmitPlus are setting the stage for digital transformation in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and beyond. However, the future holds the promise of solutions that are even more advanced, seamlessly integrated, and impactful for patient care and operational efficiency.

Emerging Trends and Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Predictive Analytics: Next-generation platforms will harness AI to predict patient needs, automate documentation, and flag potential risks before they impact outcomes.
• Interoperability and Data Exchange: Future solutions will effortlessly integrate with EHRs, hospital discharge systems, labs, and payer portals, creating a unified patient record across the continuum of care.
• Remote Monitoring and Telehealth: Integration of remote patient monitoring and telehealth will support post-acute care management, facilitating seamless transitions and reducing re-hospitalizations.

Integration Possibilities

• Connected Workflows: Solutions “better than AdmitPlus” will offer APIs and FHIR compatibility, enabling real-time data sharing between SNFs, hospitals, pharmacies, and ancillary providers.
• Automated Compliance: Advanced rules engines will ensure regulatory and reimbursement compliance, automatically updating forms and documentation based on changing requirements.

Long-Term Vision

In the coming years, healthcare platforms will evolve into comprehensive care orchestration hubs. These systems will empower SNF staff with real-time insights, AI-driven recommendations, and robust communication tools. The ultimate vision is a frictionless, patient-centered ecosystem where transitions of care are smooth, manual processes are minimized, and outcomes are consistently optimized. As technology advances, solutions that surpass AdmitPlus will not just support admissions—they will transform the entire post-acute care journey.

8. Conclusion & Call to Action

In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, settling for outdated solutions like AdmitPlus can hinder your facility’s growth and quality of care. Sparkco AI outshines the competition with its cutting-edge technology, seamless integrations, and intuitive user experience. Our platform streamlines admissions, automates crucial workflows, and delivers actionable insights—empowering your team to focus on what truly matters: superior resident care and operational excellence.

Don’t let inefficiencies and missed opportunities hold your skilled nursing facility back. Every day without Sparkco AI is a day your team could be saving time, reducing errors, and improving resident outcomes. The shift to smarter, AI-driven admissions and care coordination has never been more urgent—or more accessible.

Join the growing number of facilities transforming their operations with Sparkco AI. See for yourself how our platform can elevate your workflows, boost census, and enhance compliance. Contact us today at info@sparkcoai.com or request a personalized demo to experience the Sparkco AI difference firsthand. Don’t wait—discover a smarter way to manage admissions and drive your facility forward now!