1. Introduction

The skilled nursing facility (SNF) market is on the brink of unprecedented growth, projected to reach a staggering USD 895.01 billion by 2034. This rapid expansion is driven by an aging population, rising demand for post-acute care, and increasing complexity in healthcare delivery. As SNFs race to keep pace with evolving regulations and patient expectations, technology solutions like electronic health records (EHRs) and care management platforms have become essential. Yet, with opportunity comes fierce competition among healthcare technology providers—and NextGen, once a dominant force, now faces a new wave of nimble, innovative rivals.

While NextGen Healthcare has long been recognized for its robust EHR and practice management solutions, many skilled nursing facilities are finding themselves at a crossroads. Operational challenges, interoperability demands, and the need for seamless patient transitions have prompted decision-makers to explore alternative platforms that promise greater flexibility, better integration, and improved outcomes. As the market continues to evolve, the landscape of technology vendors vying for SNF attention is more dynamic than ever.

In this article, we’ll delve into the current state of the SNF technology market, examine the emerging competitors giving NextGen a run for its money, and highlight the key features that matter most to facility leaders today. Whether you’re an administrator evaluating new systems or a clinician seeking workflow improvements, understanding the shifting competitive landscape is essential for making informed decisions in 2025 and beyond.

2. Current Challenges in NextGen Competitor

Healthcare facilities increasingly rely on Electronic Health Record (EHR) solutions to streamline operations, ensure compliance, and deliver high-quality patient care. While NextGen Healthcare is a prominent EHR provider, many organizations consider or utilize competing systems such as Epic, Cerner, Athenahealth, and Allscripts. Despite their popularity, these NextGen competitors present several significant challenges for healthcare providers. Below are key pain points, supported by recent research and industry statistics.

• 1. Interoperability Issues
  Many NextGen competitors struggle to provide seamless interoperability with other EHRs and healthcare IT systems. According to a 2023 KLAS report, only 63% of hospitals using major EHR competitors report "easy" data exchange with external providers. This hampers care coordination and can lead to fragmented patient records, increasing the risk of medical errors.
• 2. Customization and Usability Concerns
  Facilities often cite the lack of user-friendly interfaces and insufficient customization options as major pain points. A 2023 Medical Economics survey found that 67% of physicians reported frustration with EHR usability, which can slow workflows and contribute to clinician burnout.
• 3. High Implementation and Maintenance Costs
  Adopting and maintaining EHR systems from NextGen competitors is costly. A HealthIT.gov report estimates initial implementation costs average $162,000 per provider, with annual maintenance at $85,000. These expenses strain budgets and can divert resources from other critical patient care initiatives.
• 4. Compliance and Security Challenges
  Ensuring compliance with HIPAA and evolving data privacy laws is a persistent challenge. In 2022, the HHS Office for Civil Rights reported a 93% increase in healthcare data breaches compared to 2018, with EHR vulnerabilities cited as a common culprit. Non-compliance not only risks patient confidentiality but also incurs hefty penalties.
• 5. Limited Integration with Third-Party Tools
  Many healthcare facilities face difficulties integrating EHRs from NextGen competitors with telehealth, billing, and population health management tools. According to a 2023 HIMSS survey, 54% of IT leaders said integration limitations hinder innovation and operational efficiency.
• 6. Inadequate Support and Training
  Large EHR vendors often provide insufficient onboarding and ongoing support, leading to poor user adoption. A 2023 Medscape survey revealed that 40% of clinicians feel inadequately trained on their current EHR system, impacting compliance and increasing documentation errors.
• 7. Slow System Performance and Downtime
  System lags and unplanned outages disrupt care delivery. A recent study found that 77% of healthcare organizations experienced EHR downtime in the past year, with 69% reporting negative effects on patient safety and care quality.

These pain points impact healthcare facilities by increasing operational complexity, straining compliance efforts, and potentially compromising patient care. Addressing these challenges is critical for facilities to realize the full benefits of EHR technology while maintaining high standards for security, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

3. How Sparkco AI Transforms NextGen Competitor

Ambulatory practices are under constant pressure to improve operational efficiency and streamline electronic medical record (EMR) support. While solutions like NextGen leverage tools such as MAKE Solutions’ TransIT, practices still encounter persistent challenges—ranging from inconsistent provider documentation to workflow bottlenecks and integration complexities. Sparkco AI is engineered to directly address these “NextGen competitor” pain points with advanced, yet user-friendly, capabilities. Here’s how Sparkco AI stands apart:

• Standardized Documentation with Intelligent Templates
  Sparkco AI harnesses natural language processing to automatically suggest and standardize clinical documentation. Providers receive real-time prompts, ensuring consistent and complete records across all encounters. This eliminates variability in provider notes—a common challenge NextGen users face—resulting in cleaner data and more reliable reporting.
• Automated Data Extraction and Entry
  Manual data entry leads to errors and consumes valuable staff time. Sparkco AI automates the extraction of relevant patient data from faxes, emails, and scanned documents, then seamlessly populates the EMR. This not only improves accuracy, but also frees up providers and administrative staff to focus on patient care.
• Proactive Compliance Monitoring
  Regulatory adherence is a moving target for ambulatory practices. Sparkco AI continuously scans documentation and workflows for compliance gaps, alerting teams to missing signatures, unsigned orders, or outdated forms. This proactive approach reduces audit risks and helps maintain a compliant operation—an area where many NextGen competitors struggle.
• Adaptive Workflow Automation
  Sparkco AI automates routine clinical and administrative workflows, such as patient check-ins, appointment scheduling, and follow-up reminders. By learning from usage patterns, it adapts to each practice’s unique needs, ensuring no task falls through the cracks and dramatically reducing workflow bottlenecks.
• Real-Time Analytics & Predictive Insights
  Sparkco AI transforms raw EMR data into actionable insights. Practices receive instant dashboards on patient volumes, revenue trends, and care gaps. Predictive analytics help anticipate patient needs, staffing requirements, and identify at-risk populations—enabling smarter, data-driven decisions.
• Seamless Integration with Existing Systems
  Unlike platforms that require complex, costly migrations, Sparkco AI offers robust API and HL7/FHIR support for easy integration with NextGen and other EMR systems. This ensures data flows securely and smoothly between systems, reducing disruptions and accelerating time-to-value for ambulatory practices.

By combining AI-driven automation, adaptive learning, and seamless integration, Sparkco AI empowers ambulatory practices to overcome the operational and technical challenges often faced by NextGen competitors. The result is a more efficient, compliant, and patient-focused practice—without the overhead of manual work or the headaches of complex technology upgrades.

4. Measurable Benefits and ROI

Implementing an automated platform like a NextGen competitor delivers robust, measurable returns for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and senior care providers. Leveraging data analytics, compliance automation, and streamlined workflows, these solutions drive efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate care quality. Below, we highlight key benefits and ROI metrics substantiated by real-world case studies and industry research.

• Exceptional ROI – Up to 751% in Less Than Two Months:
  A national healthcare provider achieved a staggering 751% return on investment in under two months by implementing an automated data and workflow solution. Rapid ROI was attributed to reduced manual labor, faster decision-making, and improved resource allocation.
• Time Savings – Up to 40% Reduction in Administrative Hours:
  Automated platforms streamline repetitive tasks such as census reporting, compliance documentation, and staff scheduling. Facilities leveraging real-time dashboards reported administrative time savings of 30-40%, freeing clinical and administrative staff to focus on patient care (primeVIEW Metrics).
• Cost Reduction – 20-35% Decrease in Operational Expenses:
  By reducing manual processes and optimizing staffing, NextGen competitor solutions help SNFs cut operational costs by up to 35%. Automated labor analytics also minimize overtime and agency spend, directly impacting the bottom line.
• Compliance Improvement – Up to 60% Faster Regulatory Reporting:
  Compliance management systems enable automated tracking, real-time alerts, and documentation, resulting in compliance task completion 60% faster on average (GetSignify Blog). This reduces the risk of costly penalties and survey deficiencies.
• Data-Driven Decision Making – 85% Faster Access to Actionable Insights:
  NextGen competitor analytics platforms provide dashboards on census, staffing, and clinical outcomes. Operators reported that access to actionable metrics improved by 85%, accelerating interventions and quality improvement efforts (primeVIEW).
• Enhanced Occupancy and Revenue – Up to 10% Increase:
  With automated census and referral tracking, facilities can respond to leads faster and optimize bed utilization, resulting in a 5-10% increase in occupancy rates, directly boosting revenue streams.
• Reduced Human Errors – Up to 70% Fewer Documentation Mistakes:
  Automated workflows and digital records reduce manual entry, resulting in up to 70% fewer documentation errors. This not only improves compliance but also ensures more accurate billing and reimbursements.
• Staff Satisfaction – Improved Retention Rates by 15%:
  By reducing administrative burdens, staff satisfaction improves, translating to up to 15% higher retention rates as clinical teams spend more time on patient engagement and less on paperwork.

For more in-depth data and customer success stories, review these resources:

• Workday: 751% ROI Case Study
• primeVIEW: Skilled Nursing Data Analytics
• GetSignify: Compliance Management Benefits

In summary, automated NextGen competitor solutions are proven to generate substantial financial and operational returns, positioning skilled nursing facilities for sustainable growth and regulatory success.

5. Implementation Best Practices

Implementing a new compliance management system or EHR platform—like a NextGen competitor—requires a strategic, well-structured approach. To maximize ROI, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster staff adoption, follow these eight best practices:

1. Define Clear Objectives and Success Metrics
   

   Start by outlining what you hope to achieve—improved workflow efficiency, enhanced compliance tracking, or better patient outcomes. Set measurable KPIs for each goal.

   Tip: Involve key stakeholders from the outset to ensure alignment.
   Common Pitfall: Vague goals lead to scope creep and unclear ROI.
2. Assemble a Cross-Functional Implementation Team
   

   Include representatives from clinical, compliance, IT, and administrative departments to address diverse needs and facilitate smooth communication.

   Tip: Assign a dedicated project manager to keep tasks on track.
   Change Management: Involve staff early to build buy-in and reduce resistance.
3. Conduct Thorough Workflow Analysis
   

   Map current processes to identify gaps and inefficiencies. Tailor the new system for optimal integration into these workflows.

   Tip: Shadow staff to uncover hidden pain points.
   Common Pitfall: Failing to adapt workflows can result in low user adoption.
4. Prioritize Data Migration and Integrity
   

   Plan a phased data migration with rigorous testing. Validate that all critical patient, compliance, and billing data transfers accurately.

   Tip: Cleanse and standardize data before migration.
   Common Pitfall: Skipping validation can lead to compliance violations and operational disruptions.
5. Customize System Configuration
   

   Leverage platform flexibility to align forms, reports, and user permissions with your facility’s specific needs.

   Tip: Use pilot groups to test configurations before full rollout.
   Change Management: Encourage feedback loops to fine-tune configurations.
6. Deliver Comprehensive Training
   

   Offer role-based training for all users, combining live demonstrations, hands-on practice, and reference materials.

   Tip: Provide ongoing support with “super users” to reinforce learning.
   Common Pitfall: Underestimating training needs can increase errors and frustration.
7. Monitor, Measure, and Optimize Post-Go-Live
   

   Track system performance against established KPIs, gather end-user feedback, and rapidly address issues.

   Tip: Schedule regular check-ins for continuous improvement.
   Change Management: Celebrate early wins to sustain momentum.
8. Stay Current with Regulatory Updates
   

   Assign responsibility for monitoring CMS regulations, HIPAA, and interoperability requirements to ensure continued compliance.

   Tip: Subscribe to regulatory alerts and conduct periodic compliance reviews.
   Common Pitfall: Lax monitoring can quickly lead to non-compliance and penalties.

By following these implementation best practices, your organization can unlock the full potential of a NextGen competitor platform—supporting compliance, efficiency, and improved care delivery.

6. Real-World Examples

Real-World Example: NextGen Competitor in Skilled Nursing Facilities

A prominent 120-bed skilled nursing facility in the Midwest was struggling with inefficient documentation workflows, delayed billing cycles, and compliance risks due to an outdated Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. The facility’s leadership sought a modern, user-friendly solution to streamline operations and improve financial performance. After evaluating several options—including NextGen—they selected a leading NextGen competitor for its specialized features and robust integration capabilities tailored to skilled nursing environments.

• Situation: The facility faced an average claim denial rate of 14%, slow charting processes that added 2+ hours to nurses’ shifts weekly, and a declining 5-star CMS rating due to documentation errors and survey deficiencies.
• Solution: The NextGen competitor implemented an interoperable EHR with automated charting tools, real-time compliance alerts, and integrated billing modules. Training programs ensured rapid staff adoption, and customizable dashboards provided administrators with real-time visibility into clinical and financial KPIs.
• Results:
  • Claim denial rate dropped from 14% to 4% within six months, resulting in a significant boost in revenue cycle efficiency.
  • Nursing documentation time decreased by 1.5 hours per nurse per week, freeing up over 150 staff hours monthly for direct resident care.
  • Survey compliance scores improved by 18%, contributing to the restoration of the facility’s 5-star CMS rating within nine months.
  • Billing turnaround time was reduced from 12 days to 3 days, accelerating cash flow and improving financial stability.

ROI Projection: Based on reduced labor costs, increased revenue from lower claim denials, and avoidance of compliance penalties, the facility projected a full return on investment in under 14 months. Specifically, the annualized savings exceeded $120,000, factoring in labor efficiency, improved reimbursements, and reduced overhead. The facility also reported higher staff satisfaction and resident care quality, further strengthening its competitive position.

7. The Future of NextGen Competitor

The future of "NextGen competitor" in healthcare is rapidly evolving as emerging trends and technologies reshape the landscape of Electronic Health Records (EHR) and practice management solutions. As healthcare organizations seek more robust, interoperable, and user-friendly platforms, competitors to NextGen are pushing innovation to new heights.

Emerging Trends and Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: Competitors are embedding AI-driven analytics for predictive care, automated documentation, and clinical decision support, improving both efficiency and patient outcomes.
• Telehealth Integration: Seamless telemedicine capabilities are becoming standard, enabling virtual visits, remote monitoring, and digital patient engagement directly within EHR platforms.
• Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-first architectures ensure scalability, security, and easier updates, while reducing IT overhead for healthcare providers.
• Patient-Centric Mobile Apps: Intuitive mobile apps empower patients to access records, schedule appointments, and communicate securely with care teams.

Integration Possibilities

• Interoperability: NextGen competitors are prioritizing open APIs and HL7/FHIR standards, allowing seamless data exchange across various health systems, payers, and third-party applications.
• Connected Devices: Direct integration with wearable health devices and IoT sensors enables real-time data sharing and proactive care management.
• Revenue Cycle Management (RCM): End-to-end integration of billing, claims, and analytics streamlines financial operations and enhances profitability.

Long-Term Vision

The long-term vision for NextGen competitors centers on creating holistic, interoperable healthcare ecosystems. These platforms will provide actionable insights at the point of care, support value-based reimbursement models, and foster personalized patient experiences. By leveraging advanced technologies and robust integrations, NextGen competitors are set to drive digital transformation, empowering providers and patients alike for years to come.

8. Conclusion & Call to Action

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, having the right technology partner is crucial for your skilled nursing facility’s success. While NextGen offers a range of solutions, Sparkco AI stands out as the true game-changer. With advanced AI-driven analytics, seamless EHR integration, and user-friendly workflows designed specifically for skilled nursing, Sparkco AI empowers your team to deliver higher quality care while reducing administrative burden and costs.

Unlike traditional platforms, Sparkco AI automates documentation, streamlines compliance, and provides actionable insights that let you stay ahead of regulatory changes and reimbursement challenges. Our intuitive platform ensures faster staff onboarding, increased productivity, and improved patient outcomes—giving your facility the competitive edge it needs.

The future of skilled nursing is here—don’t let your facility fall behind. Now is the time to take action and upgrade to a smarter, more efficient solution. Discover how Sparkco AI can revolutionize your operations and elevate your quality of care.

Ready to see Sparkco AI in action? Contact us or request a personalized demo today, and let our experts show you the advantages firsthand. Don’t wait—future-proof your skilled nursing facility with Sparkco AI.