1. Introduction

Did you know that over 70% of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are now leveraging electronic health records (EHR) and advanced analytics to drive better patient outcomes and operational efficiency? Data-driven care is rapidly becoming the gold standard in post-acute and long-term care. Yet, as skilled nursing organizations race to modernize, many are discovering that their current healthcare technology—such as NextGen Healthcare—may not fully meet their evolving needs.

While NextGen Healthcare has long been a popular choice for EHR and practice management, recent trends highlight significant frustrations among SNFs: limitations in long-term care workflows, lack of intuitive user interfaces for nursing staff, and challenges in integrating advanced analytics and interoperability features. With new software options emerging—such as PointClickCare, MatrixCare, and Netsmart Vision—facility leaders are now evaluating whether a NextGen Healthcare alternative might better support their pursuit of person-centered, proactive, and evidence-based care.

In this article, we’ll explore why many skilled nursing facilities are searching for a NextGen Healthcare alternative. We’ll examine the most pressing pain points, review the latest software solutions designed specifically for SNFs, and offer guidance on how to select the right technology to optimize care delivery, regulatory compliance, and operational success. Whether you’re a director of nursing, an administrator, or an IT leader, understanding your options is crucial in today’s fast-evolving healthcare landscape.

2. Current Challenges in NextGen Healthcare Alternative

As healthcare organizations seek to optimize electronic health record (EHR) systems and practice management tools, many consider alternatives to NextGen Healthcare. However, transitioning to or implementing a new EHR platform introduces its own set of challenges. Below, we explore the key pain points healthcare facilities encounter, supported by recent research and statistics, and examine their impact on operations, compliance, and patient care.

• 1. Data Migration and System Integration
  Migrating from NextGen to an alternative EHR is complex and resource-intensive. According to a 2019 report by HealthIT.gov, only 46% of hospitals can electronically find patient health information from outside providers, underscoring interoperability struggles. Ensuring seamless integration with labs, pharmacies, and billing systems remains a major hurdle, risking data loss and workflow disruptions.
• 2. High Implementation Costs and Downtime
  EHR transitions can cost large facilities millions of dollars. The American Hospital Association estimates EHR implementation and maintenance can reach $1.1 million per hospital, with additional costs for training and support. Unplanned downtime during the switch can disrupt clinical operations and delay patient care.
• 3. User Training and Adoption Issues
  Staff resistance and steep learning curves are common when adopting new systems. A 2021 Medical Economics survey found that 62% of physicians cited lack of adequate training as a primary reason for EHR dissatisfaction. Inefficient onboarding can lead to errors, reduced productivity, and clinician burnout.
• 4. Compliance and Regulatory Risks
  Ensuring new EHRs meet HIPAA, HITECH, and CMS requirements is critical. Inadequate compliance features or delayed updates can result in costly violations. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services reported over $28 million in HIPAA violation penalties in 2022 alone, highlighting the compliance risks of EHR transitions.
• 5. Customization Limitations
  Not all NextGen Healthcare alternatives offer the same level of customization. Limitations in tailoring workflows, templates, or reporting tools can hinder operational efficiency and fail to support specialty-specific needs, affecting both staff satisfaction and patient outcomes.
• 6. Data Security and Privacy Concerns
  New EHR implementations may expose vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of cyberattacks. According to HIPAA Journal's 2023 Data Breach Report, healthcare data breaches affected over 133 million individuals in 2023, emphasizing the need for robust security protocols during and after EHR transitions.
• 7. Disruption to Patient Care
  EHR changes can cause interruptions in care delivery, delayed access to patient histories, and increased administrative burden. Research published in JAMA Network Open found that EHR transitions are associated with increased rates of medication errors and patient safety events during the initial implementation phase.

These challenges impact facility operations by increasing costs, reducing efficiency, and exposing organizations to regulatory risks. More importantly, they can compromise patient care quality and safety. Healthcare leaders must carefully assess these pain points—and their potential impact—when considering a NextGen Healthcare alternative.

3. How Sparkco AI Transforms NextGen Healthcare Alternative

Healthcare organizations seeking an alternative to NextGen Healthcare face several critical challenges: complex EHR transitions, interoperability requirements, value-based care pressures, and the need for seamless integration with existing systems. Sparkco AI rises to these challenges with an innovative, AI-powered platform purpose-built for skilled nursing facilities and post-acute care providers. Here’s how Sparkco AI stands apart as a next-generation alternative:

• Seamless EHR/EHR Migration and Onboarding
  Sparkco AI streamlines the process of switching from legacy EHR systems like NextGen. Its AI-based migration tools analyze, map, and convert patient data with high accuracy, minimizing manual effort and data loss. Automated onboarding modules train staff via interactive, adaptive workflows, ensuring a smooth, confident transition.
• Advanced Interoperability and Compliance
  Meeting CMS interoperability mandates is a challenge for many providers. Sparkco AI uses intelligent mapping and standardized data formats to connect effortlessly with other healthcare systems, payers, and labs. Real-time data validation ensures that information flows securely and complies with the latest federal requirements—without complex technical setups.
• Value-Based Care Analytics
  Sparkco AI delivers real-time analytics tailored for skilled nursing and post-acute environments. Its AI-driven insights identify risk factors, predict hospital readmissions, and recommend interventions that improve patient outcomes and maximize reimbursements. Automated reports and dashboards make it easy for care teams to track quality metrics and performance benchmarks.
• Automated Clinical Workflows
  Manual documentation and repetitive administrative tasks slow down care delivery. Sparkco AI automates charting, scheduling, medication management, and compliance tracking. By reducing paperwork and administrative burden, clinical teams can focus on patient care, boosting both satisfaction and efficiency.
• Flexible Integration With Existing Systems
  Unlike many EHR alternatives, Sparkco AI is engineered for plug-and-play compatibility. Its open APIs and pre-built connectors enable rapid integration with billing, HR, laboratory, and pharmacy systems. Whether upgrading a single module or transforming an entire facility’s software stack, Sparkco AI works alongside your current tools with minimal disruption.
• User-Friendly, Adaptive Interface
  Sparkco AI puts usability at the forefront. Its intuitive dashboard adapts to different roles—nursing, administration, or compliance—showing only the most relevant tasks and alerts. AI-driven suggestions help users complete documentation, flag missing information, and stay on top of regulatory changes.

In summary, Sparkco AI tackles the most pressing challenges of NextGen Healthcare alternatives by combining robust AI automation, advanced analytics, seamless interoperability, and effortless integration. This holistic approach empowers skilled nursing facilities to deliver better care, remain compliant, and thrive in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

4. Measurable Benefits and ROI

Adopting an automated alternative to NextGen Healthcare can drive transformative results for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and healthcare organizations. Data-driven solutions offer substantial improvements in operational efficiency, cost savings, compliance, and patient care quality. Below, we highlight six measurable benefits, supported by recent industry data and real-world case studies.

• Exceptional ROI: Up to 751% in Under Two Months
  A national healthcare provider achieved a 751% return on investment (ROI) in less than two months after implementing an automated alternative to legacy EHR and management systems. This dramatic ROI was driven by process automation, real-time analytics, and integration across clinical and financial workflows.
• Time Savings: 35-45% Reduction in Administrative Tasks
  Automated platforms significantly reduce manual data entry and repetitive paperwork. Facilities report a 35-45% reduction in staff time spent on administrative tasks, freeing nurses and clinicians to focus on direct patient care and improving overall staff satisfaction.
• Cost Reduction: Up to 20% Lower Operational Expenses
  By streamlining workflows and eliminating redundant processes, SNFs can realize operational cost savings of up to 20%. These savings are attributed to decreased overtime, fewer billing errors, and optimized resource allocation (source).
• Improved Compliance: 99% Documentation Accuracy
  Automated solutions ensure that documentation is complete, timely, and compliant with federal and state regulations. Facilities using advanced analytics and real-time alerts have reported documentation accuracy rates as high as 99%, reducing the risk of costly compliance penalties.
• Faster Revenue Cycle: 30% Decrease in Days to Payment
  Enhanced billing automation and claims management can lead to a 30% reduction in days to payment. This improvement accelerates cash flow, minimizes denied claims, and enhances financial stability for facilities.
• Actionable Insights: Real-Time Performance Metrics
  Platforms like primeVIEW deliver real-time analytics across census, staffing, and clinical outcomes. Facilities gain instant access to actionable metrics, empowering data-driven decisions that elevate care quality and operational performance.
• Increased Occupancy: 5-10% Growth Through Data-Driven Marketing
  Leveraging automated analytics for census management and targeted outreach enables facilities to increase occupancy rates by 5-10%, directly impacting revenue and market competitiveness.
• Reduced Staff Turnover: Up to 15% Decrease
  By automating routine tasks and improving workflow efficiency, staff experience less burnout and higher job satisfaction. This results in up to a 15% decrease in turnover rates, saving recruitment and training costs.

In summary, automated NextGen Healthcare alternatives deliver rapid, measurable ROI and wide-ranging benefits for skilled nursing facilities. With proven results like 751% ROI in weeks, 35-45% time savings, and double-digit improvements in cost, compliance, and staff retention, these solutions are quickly becoming essential for forward-thinking healthcare organizations.

5. Implementation Best Practices

Successfully transitioning to a NextGen Healthcare alternative requires a structured approach, clear communication, and proactive management of both technology and people. Follow these actionable steps to ensure a smooth implementation that supports compliance, interoperability, and quality patient care.

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Needs Assessment
   

   Evaluate your current workflows, regulatory requirements (such as CEHRT and CMS interoperability mandates), and organizational goals. Involve clinical, administrative, and IT stakeholders to identify must-have features and integration points.

   Tip: Document gaps in your current system to guide feature selection.
   Pitfall: Failing to involve end-users can result in missed requirements and adoption issues.
2. Build a Cross-Functional Implementation Team
   

   Assemble a team with representatives from clinical, IT, compliance, and operations departments. Assign clear roles and responsibilities to ensure accountability and smooth communication.

   Tip: Designate a project manager experienced in healthcare IT rollouts.
   Pitfall: Underestimating the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration can delay timelines.
3. Develop a Detailed Implementation Roadmap
   

   Create a phased timeline with key milestones, resource allocation, and contingency plans. Incorporate training, data migration, and system testing into the roadmap.

   Tip: Schedule regular progress reviews to adjust plans as needed.
   Pitfall: Overlooking contingency planning can lead to project stalls during unforeseen challenges.
4. Ensure Regulatory and Compliance Alignment
   

   Verify that your chosen alternative supports 2025 compliance updates (e.g., HTI-1, CMS interoperability, and quality reporting). Work closely with vendors to confirm ongoing support for emerging regulations.

   Tip: Regularly review regulatory updates and engage compliance experts.
   Pitfall: Neglecting compliance can result in costly penalties and operational disruptions.
5. Prioritize Data Migration and Interoperability
   

   Plan a secure, accurate transfer of patient and operational data. Test interoperability with existing systems, such as billing and lab interfaces, to ensure seamless information flow.

   Tip: Conduct pilot migrations and validate data integrity before full rollout.
   Pitfall: Rushing migration without proper testing can cause data loss or corruption.
6. Implement Robust Training Programs
   

   Design role-based training for all users, including clinicians, administrative staff, and IT. Offer ongoing support and refresher courses post-implementation.

   Tip: Utilize super-users or champions to facilitate peer learning.
   Pitfall: Insufficient training can lead to low adoption and workflow disruptions.
7. Monitor Performance and Solicit Feedback
   

   Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as user adoption, system uptime, and compliance metrics. Establish feedback channels to rapidly address issues and optimize workflows.

   Tip: Schedule post-implementation reviews at 30, 60, and 90 days.
   Pitfall: Ignoring user feedback can result in persistent inefficiencies and dissatisfaction.
8. Manage Change Proactively
   

   Communicate frequently and transparently about implementation progress and benefits. Address resistance by involving staff early and celebrating milestones to build momentum.

   Tip: Share success stories and quick wins to reinforce positive change.
   Pitfall: Underestimating the human side of change can jeopardize long-term success.

By following these best practices, your organization can maximize the value of a NextGen Healthcare alternative while minimizing disruption and ensuring compliance with evolving healthcare regulations.

6. Real-World Examples

Real-World Examples: NextGen Healthcare Alternatives in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) across the country are increasingly seeking electronic health record (EHR) solutions tailored to their unique workflows. While NextGen Healthcare is a well-known platform, some SNFs have found greater value in alternative solutions that better align with their operational needs and budget constraints. Below is an anonymized case study that illustrates how one facility transitioned to a NextGen Healthcare alternative, achieving significant improvements in efficiency, compliance, and financial outcomes.

• Situation:

  Sunrise Meadows, a 120-bed skilled nursing facility in the Midwest, struggled with their existing EHR system, which was based on the NextGen Healthcare platform. Staff reported difficulties with user navigation, slow response times, and limited integration with pharmacy and therapy modules. The facility faced challenges in maintaining regulatory compliance and often experienced delays in MDS submissions, impacting reimbursement rates.

• Solution:

  The facility conducted a thorough review of EHR alternatives and selected PointClickCare as their new platform based on its SNF-specific features, ease of use, and interoperability with external providers. Implementation included data migration, staff training, and integration of pharmacy and therapy documentation into a unified system.

• Results:
  • Documentation Time: Reduced by 30%, allowing nurses to spend more time on resident care.
  • MDS Submission: On-time submission rate improved from 86% to 98%, resulting in more timely reimbursements.
  • Survey Readiness: Compliance scores increased by 15%, with fewer documentation errors cited during state inspections.
  • Financial Impact: Revenue cycle accelerated, with a 12% decrease in days in accounts receivable within six months post-implementation.
• ROI Projection:

  Sunrise Meadows projected a full return on investment within 14 months, factoring in reduced overtime, minimized penalties from late submissions, and increased reimbursement rates. Ongoing operational savings were estimated at $75,000 annually, derived from improved efficiency and optimized billing processes.

This case highlights the tangible benefits skilled nursing facilities can achieve by exploring NextGen Healthcare alternatives tailored to their clinical and financial objectives.

7. The Future of NextGen Healthcare Alternative

The future of "NextGen Healthcare alternative" solutions is rapidly evolving as healthcare organizations seek more advanced, flexible, and interoperable electronic health record (EHR) systems. As the industry shifts toward value-based care, providers are prioritizing platforms that go beyond traditional EHR functionalities.

Emerging trends and technologies are shaping the landscape of healthcare IT. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are being integrated into EHR systems to streamline clinical workflows, automate administrative tasks, and provide predictive analytics for better patient outcomes. Telehealth capabilities are now essential, enabling remote patient monitoring and virtual consultations. Additionally, cloud-based EHRs are gaining traction for their scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.

Integration possibilities are crucial for the success of NextGen Healthcare alternatives. Modern solutions offer robust API frameworks for seamless interoperability with third-party applications, wearable devices, and health information exchanges (HIEs). This integration ensures a holistic view of the patient journey, enabling providers to deliver coordinated, patient-centric care. Furthermore, advanced population health management tools are being embedded, helping practices analyze data across diverse patient groups and address social determinants of health.

Long-term vision for NextGen Healthcare alternatives includes:

• Personalized care: Leveraging data analytics for tailored treatment plans and precision medicine.
• Enhanced patient engagement: Empowering patients with user-friendly portals, mobile apps, and real-time access to their health data.
• Regulatory compliance: Adapting rapidly to evolving healthcare policies and standards, ensuring data privacy and security.
• Continuous innovation: Embracing emerging technologies to improve clinical decision support and operational efficiency.

As the demand for smarter, more connected healthcare solutions grows, NextGen Healthcare alternative platforms are poised to lead the industry into a future defined by interoperability, innovation, and patient-centered care.

8. Conclusion & Call to Action

Choosing the right healthcare technology partner is essential for the success of your practice. While NextGen Healthcare offers a range of features, Sparkco AI stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly alternative designed to revolutionize your operations. With advanced AI-driven workflows, seamless EHR integration, and robust data security, Sparkco AI empowers your team to deliver efficient, patient-centered care while reducing administrative burdens.

Don’t let outdated systems hold you back. The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, and now is the perfect time to upgrade to a modern solution that grows with your organization. Sparkco AI’s intuitive platform not only saves you time and resources but also enhances compliance and streamlines communication across your care team.

Ready to transform your practice? Take the first step toward a smarter, more efficient future in healthcare. Explore Sparkco AI and discover how our technology can help you achieve better outcomes, increased productivity, and higher patient satisfaction.

Contact us today or Request a free demo to see Sparkco AI in action. Don’t wait—empower your team with the tools they need to succeed!