Best EHR for Orthopedics (2025): Top 7 Systems Compared + Must-Have Features

Introduction

Orthopedic practices face unique challenges that generic EHR systems simply can't address. From complex fracture documentation to specialized imaging workflows, orthopedic providers need EHR solutions designed specifically for musculoskeletal care. This comprehensive guide examines the best EHR systems for orthopedics in 2025, helping you choose the right platform for your practice.

Modern orthopedic EHR systems go beyond basic patient records; they integrate with imaging systems, provide specialty-specific templates, and streamline surgical workflows. The right system can reduce documentation time by up to 40% while improving billing accuracy and patient outcomes.

What Makes Orthopedic EHR Systems Unique?

Specialized Clinical Documentation

Orthopedic practices require documentation capabilities that general EHR systems lack:

• Fracture and injury charting with anatomical diagrams
• Range of motion (ROM) tracking with progress visualization
• Surgical planning tools for pre-operative documentation
• Post-operative follow-up templates and protocols
• Pain assessment scales integrated with treatment plans

Advanced Imaging Integration

Unlike other specialties, orthopedics is heavily dependent on diagnostic imaging. Top orthopedic EHR systems provide:

• PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) integration
• DICOM viewer capabilities for X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans
• Image annotation tools for surgical planning
• Side-by-side comparison of imaging studies
• Mobile imaging access for on-the-go consultations

Regulatory Compliance Features

Orthopedic EHR systems must address specific compliance requirements:

• CPT coding optimization for orthopedic procedures
• ICD-10 coding with musculoskeletal specificity
• MIPS reporting for quality measures
• Workers' compensation documentation templates
• Medicare compliance for orthopedic services

Top 7 Best EHR Systems for Orthopedics in 2025

1. SpryPT.com - Best Overall Orthopedic EHR

Rating: 4.9/5

SpryPT.com stands out as the most comprehensive orthopedic EHR solution, combining specialty-specific features with an intuitive design.

Key Features:

• AI-powered documentation reduces note-taking time by 40%
• Integrated PACS viewer with annotation tools
• Specialty-specific templates for all orthopedic subspecialties
• Mobile-first design for bedside and OR access
• Real-time insurance verification
• Automated billing with denial management

Pricing: Starting at $150/month per NPI 

Best For: Multi-specialty orthopedic practices and surgery centers

Pros:

• Comprehensive orthopedic-specific features
• Excellent imaging integration
• Strong mobile capabilities
• Dedicated orthopedic support team

Cons:

• Higher price point than generic solutions
• Requires training for full feature utilization

2. ModMed EMA - Best for Specialty Focus

Rating: 4.7/5

ModMed EMA offers deep orthopedic specialization with tablet-optimized workflows designed by practicing orthopedic surgeons.

Key Features:

• Touch-based charting optimized for tablets
• Extensive orthopedic procedure templates
• Outcomes tracking and reporting
• Integration with surgical scheduling systems
• Mobile documentation capabilities

Pricing: Starting at $650/month per provider 

Best For: Large orthopedic practices and academic medical centers

3. Epic - Best for Enterprise Integration

Rating: 4.6/5

Epic provides enterprise-level capabilities with strong orthopedic modules and hospital system integration.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive orthopedic specialty modules
• Seamless hospital system integration
• Advanced analytics and reporting
• Robust security and compliance features
• Extensive third-party integrations

Pricing: Custom enterprise pricing 

Best For: Large health systems and multi-location practices

4. Athenahealth - Best Cloud-Based Solution

Rating: 4.5/5

Athenahealth offers cloud-first orthopedic EHR capabilities with strong billing and practice management integration.

Key Features:

• Cloud-based accessibility
• Integrated billing and revenue cycle management
• Patient engagement tools
• Real-time eligibility verification
• Comprehensive reporting dashboard

Pricing: 3-7% of collections 

Best For: Medium to large orthopedic practices

5. NextGen Healthcare - Best for Customization

Rating: 4.4/5

NextGen provides highly customizable orthopedic workflows with strong ambulatory surgery center integration.

Key Features:

• Highly customizable templates
• ASC integration capabilities
• Advanced scheduling tools
• Population health management
• Interoperability features

Pricing: Starting at $429/month per provider 

Best For: Practices requiring extensive customization

6. DrChrono - Best for Mobile-First Practices

Rating: 4.3/5

DrChrono excels in mobile functionality with iPad-optimized orthopedic documentation.

Key Features:

• iPad-native application
• Apple Pencil support for diagrams
• Voice dictation capabilities
• Real-time patient data access
• Integrated billing features

Pricing: Starting at $299/month per provider 

Best For: Small to medium orthopedic practices

7. Practice Fusion - Best Budget Option

Rating: 4.2/5

Practice Fusion offers affordable orthopedic EHR capabilities for smaller practices.

Key Features:

• Cost-effective pricing
• Basic orthopedic templates
• Essential billing integration
• Cloud-based accessibility
• Standard reporting tools

Pricing: Starting at $149/month per provider. 

Best For: Small orthopedic practices and solo practitioners

Key Features to Look for in Orthopedic EHR Systems

1. Specialty-Specific Templates

Look for EHR systems that offer:

• Pre-built orthopedic templates for common procedures
• Customizable SOAP notes for different subspecialties
• Injury-specific documentation tools
• Surgical planning templates
• Post-operative care protocols

2. Imaging Integration Capabilities

Essential imaging features include:

• PACS system integration for seamless image viewing
• DICOM compatibility for various imaging modalities
• Image annotation tools for surgical planning
• Multi-monitor support for reading rooms
• Mobile imaging access for consultations

3. Billing and Revenue Cycle Management

Key billing features for orthopedic practices:

• Automated CPT coding for orthopedic procedures
• Real-time insurance verification
• Denial management workflows
• Revenue cycle analytics
• Workers' compensation billing support

4. Mobile and Tablet Optimization

Mobile capabilities should include:

• Tablet-optimized interface for bedside use
• Touch-screen navigation
• Offline capabilities for areas with poor connectivity
• Voice dictation support
• Secure messaging between providers

5. Compliance and Security Features

Essential compliance features:

• HIPAA compliance with audit trails
• Data encryption in transit and at rest
• Role-based access controls
• Automatic backups and disaster recovery
• Regulatory reporting capabilities

Implementation Considerations

Practice Size and Complexity

Small Practices (1-5 providers):

• Focus on ease of use and quick implementation
• Consider cloud-based solutions for lower IT overhead
• Prioritize essential features over advanced capabilities

Medium Practices (6-20 providers):

• Require multi-provider scheduling coordination
• Need advanced reporting and analytics
• Benefit from specialty-specific workflows

Large Practices (20+ providers):

• Require enterprise-level features and scalability
• Need advanced integration capabilities
• Benefit from dedicated support and training

Budget Considerations

Initial Implementation Costs:

• Software licensing fees
• Hardware requirements
• Data migration expenses
• Training and support costs

Ongoing Operational Costs:

• Monthly subscription fees
• Maintenance and updates
• Support and training
• Integration costs

Integration Requirements

Consider integration needs with:

• Existing practice management systems
• Imaging systems and PACS
• Laboratory information systems
• Hospital systems and HIEs
• Billing and accounting software

ROI Analysis for Orthopedic EHR Systems

Time Savings Benefits

Documentation Efficiency:

• Average 40% reduction in note-taking time
• Faster patient encounter documentation
• Reduced administrative burden on providers

Billing Improvements:

• Decreased claim denial rates
• Faster reimbursement cycles
• Improved revenue capture

Operational Efficiency:

• Streamlined scheduling processes
• Reduced phone calls and administrative tasks
• Improved patient flow management

Financial Impact

Revenue Increases:

• 15-25% improvement in billing accuracy
• 10-20% reduction in claim denials
• Faster collections and improved cash flow

Cost Savings:

• Reduced administrative staff requirements
• Lower paper and supply costs
• Decreased transcription expenses

Future Trends in Orthopedic EHR Technology

Artificial Intelligence Integration

AI-Powered Documentation:

• Automated SOAP note generation
• Predictive text and clinical decision support
• Voice-to-text transcription

Diagnostic Assistance:

• AI-enhanced imaging analysis
• Pattern recognition for diagnosis
• Treatment recommendation engines

Interoperability Advances

FHIR Standard Adoption:

• Seamless data exchange between systems
• Improved care coordination
• Better patient data portability

Cloud-Based Integration:

• Real-time data synchronization
• Enhanced collaboration tools
• Improved disaster recovery

Patient Engagement Features

Patient Portal Enhancements:

• Mobile-first patient interfaces
• Real-time communication tools
• Integrated telehealth capabilities

Remote Monitoring:

• Wearable device integration
• Remote patient monitoring
• Predictive health analytics

Conclusion

Choosing the right EHR system for your orthopedic practice is crucial for operational efficiency, clinical outcomes, and financial success. SpryPT.com stands out as the top choice for most orthopedic practices, offering comprehensive specialty-specific features, excellent imaging integration, and AI-powered documentation tools.

When evaluating options, consider your practice size, budget, and specific workflow requirements. Focus on systems that offer robust imaging capabilities, specialty-specific templates, and strong mobile access. The investment in a quality orthopedic EHR system will pay dividends in improved efficiency, better patient care, and increased revenue.

Take advantage of free trials and demos to experience these systems firsthand. The right EHR system will transform your practice operations and help you deliver better patient care while improving your bottom line.

Ready to transform your orthopedic practice? Contact SpryPT.com today to schedule a personalized demo and discover how our AI-powered EHR system can save you 40% of your documentation time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an EHR system suitable for orthopedic practices?

An orthopedic EHR system should include specialty-specific templates, imaging integration capabilities, surgical planning tools, and support for orthopedic-specific billing requirements. Look for systems that understand the unique workflows of orthopedic practices.

How much does an orthopedic EHR system cost?

Costs vary significantly based on practice size and features. Expect to pay $150-$700 per provider per month for cloud-based solutions, with additional costs for implementation, training, and support.

Can orthopedic EHR systems integrate with imaging systems?

Yes, most modern orthopedic EHR systems offer PACS integration capabilities, allowing seamless viewing of X-rays, MRIs, and other imaging studies directly within the patient record.

What are the key compliance requirements for orthopedic EHR systems?

Orthopedic EHR systems must be HIPAA compliant, support meaningful use requirements, and provide features for MIPS reporting. They should also support specialty-specific coding requirements for orthopedic procedures.

How long does it take to implement an orthopedic EHR system?

Implementation timelines vary but typically range from 3-6 months for most practices. Factors affecting the timeline include practice size, data migration complexity, and training requirements.