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How to Choose the Right EHR System for Your Medical Practice

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Choosing the Right EHR System

Choosing the right Electronic Health Record (EHR) system is one of the most important decisions for any medical practice. The right EHR can streamline workflows, improve patient care, and enhance overall efficiency, while the wrong choice can lead to frustration and wasted resources. In this blog, we’ll explore how to choose the right EHR system for your medical practice by breaking down key features, costs, and considerations.

1. Understand Your Practice's Needs

Before exploring options, evaluate your practice’s size, specialty, and workflow requirements. A solo practice may need a simple, cost-effective EHR, while a multi-provider clinic may require advanced scheduling, billing integrations, and patient engagement tools.

Questions to ask:

  • How many providers will use the system?

  • Do you need specialty-specific templates?

  • What features are most important (telehealth, e-prescribing, lab integrations, etc.)?

2. Look for Essential Features

When considering how to choose the right EHR system for your medical practice, focus on features that directly impact your daily operations:

  • User-friendly interface: Avoid steep learning curves.

  • Integrated billing: Reduce errors and speed up payments.

  • Patient portal: Improve communication and engagement.

  • Customizable templates: Fit your unique workflows.

  • Data security: Ensure HIPAA-compliant security measures.

3. Evaluate Integration Capabilities

Your EHR should seamlessly integrate with other systems you use, such as practice management software, billing platforms, and lab systems. Poor integration leads to inefficiencies and duplicate data entry.

4. Consider Costs and Pricing Models

EHR costs vary widely. Some vendors charge per provider per month, while others require large upfront investments. Be sure to evaluate:

  • Setup and training fees

  • Ongoing monthly or annual costs

  • Hidden fees for upgrades, support, or additional features

A budget-friendly system without necessary functionality can cost more in the long run.

5. Research Vendor Reputation and Support

Vendor reliability is as important as the software itself. Look for vendors with:

  • Excellent customer support (24/7 availability is a plus)

  • Strong user reviews and references

  • Regular software updates and compliance measures

6. Request a Demo and Trial Period

Always request a hands-on demo before committing. A trial period allows you and your staff to test the system in real-world scenarios, ensuring it meets your needs before signing a contract.

7. Plan for Data Migration and Training

Transitioning from an old system? Ask vendors how they will migrate your existing patient data and train your team. A strong onboarding plan ensures minimal disruption to patient care.

Conclusion

Understanding how to choose the right EHR system for your medical practice comes down to balancing functionality, cost, and vendor support. Take time to assess your needs, explore options thoroughly, and involve your staff in the decision-making process. A well-chosen EHR system can streamline your operations and support better patient outcomes for years to come.

The First 90 Days: What New Medical Practices Need to Focus On

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What New Medical Practices Need to Focus On

Starting a medical practice is an exciting milestone, but the first few months are crucial to long-term success. The early days set the tone for your operations, patient experience, and profitability. Here’s a guide on what new medical practices need to focus on in their first 90 days:

1. Build an Efficient Operational Structure

Your first priority should be ensuring your systems and workflows are functioning smoothly. Confirm that your electronic health record (EHR) system, phone lines, billing processes, and scheduling software are all in place and tested. Efficiency during this stage prevents chaos as patient volume increases.

2. Focus on Patient Acquisition

You need patients to keep your practice running. Launch a strategic marketing plan that includes your website, Google Business Profile, social media, and community outreach. Referral relationships with other providers can also drive initial growth.

3. Deliver an Exceptional Patient Experience

Patient satisfaction is one of the most powerful growth drivers. Train staff to create a welcoming environment, minimize wait times, and provide clear communication. First impressions during the first 90 days are vital for building long-term relationships.

4. Monitor Financial Health Closely

Cash flow is often tight when starting a practice. Track expenses, monitor revenue cycle metrics, and follow up on insurance claims promptly. Small issues in billing and collections can snowball quickly if left unaddressed.

5. Build a Strong Team Culture

Your staff is the backbone of your practice. Establish clear roles, set expectations, and create a positive work environment. Early investment in team culture reduces turnover and increases efficiency.

6. Gather Data and Adjust as Needed

The first 90 days provide valuable insight into your practice’s strengths and weaknesses. Track patient volume, no-show rates, and revenue trends. Be prepared to adapt quickly when something isn’t working.

Key Takeaway

The success of a new medical practice is heavily influenced by the first 90 days. By focusing on operations, patient acquisition, and financial stability, you’ll build a solid foundation for long-term growth. Regularly review your metrics and stay flexible—small adjustments now can lead to big results later.

Maximizing Profitability in a Medical Practice: Where to Cut Costs

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Maximizing Profitability in a Medical Practice

Running a private medical practice can be deeply rewarding, but it also comes with financial challenges. Rising costs for staff, equipment, and overhead expenses can quickly eat into your revenue. The key to long-term success is finding ways to maximize profitability in your private practice by cutting costs strategically—without sacrificing patient care or quality.

Below are some areas to evaluate:

1. Reassess Your Vendor Contracts

Vendor contracts for medical supplies, cleaning services, and other essentials are often renewed automatically. Take time to review them annually. Negotiate for better rates or explore alternative suppliers who can offer comparable quality at a lower cost. Even small savings can add up significantly over time.

2. Evaluate Staffing Models

Staffing is one of the biggest expenses in any practice. Analyze patient volume and workflow to determine if adjustments can be made without overburdening your team. Options include cross-training employees, outsourcing certain administrative tasks (like billing), or implementing flexible schedules to match peak patient times.

3. Leverage Technology and Automation

Adopting the right technology can reduce repetitive tasks and eliminate inefficiencies. Electronic health records (EHR), automated appointment reminders, and digital intake forms can save hours of staff time each week. Cloud-based systems can also cut costs on servers and IT maintenance.

4. Optimize Your Space

If you’re not fully utilizing your office space, consider subleasing unused rooms or downsizing. You can also look for opportunities to renegotiate your lease, particularly if local commercial vacancy rates are high.

5. Reduce Waste and Track Inventory

Medical and office supply waste is an easily overlooked expense. Implement a robust inventory tracking system to ensure items are ordered only when needed. Encourage staff to be mindful of unnecessary waste in daily operations.

6. Review Your Billing and Collections Process

A poor billing process can drain revenue. Evaluate whether claims are being submitted and followed up on promptly. Outsourcing revenue cycle management or investing in training for your billing team can increase collections while reducing costs.

Key Takeaway

Cutting costs in a medical practice doesn’t mean cutting corners. With strategic planning, renegotiation of contracts, and leveraging technology, you can reduce expenses while improving efficiency and patient satisfaction. By regularly reviewing your operations, you can maximize profitability in your medical practice and set your business up for long-term success.

Why Turnkey Solutions Are the Future of Medical Practice Startups

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Why Turnkey Solutions Are the Future of Private Practice Startups

Physicians today are burned out—not just from patient care, but from navigating a fragmented healthcare system full of administrative burdens and corporate control. That’s why more doctors are turning to private practice. But starting a new practice is no small task—unless you have the right help.

At Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management, we offer turnkey solutions for medical practice startups that simplify the process from idea to grand opening.

What Are Turnkey Solutions for Medical Practice Startups?

A turnkey solution means we handle everything—from site selection and vendor coordination to policies, procedures, and compliance—so that you can walk into a fully functioning medical practice, ready to serve patients on day one.

This approach removes the stress, guesswork, and time drain that typically come with launching a new healthcare business.

What We Handle So You Don’t Have To

At Cornerstone, our turnkey services include:

  • Business formation & legal setup

  • Office location and design assistance

  • Vendor coordination (EMRs, phone systems, IT, billing services)

  • Staffing and HR onboarding

  • Marketing coordination

  • Policy and procedure manuals

  • CLIA-waived application 

  • Financial pro forma development & bank coordination

  • Credentialing support

Why Turnkey Solutions Save You Time and Money

The typical physician spends hundreds of hours planning a new practice. Our clients reclaim that time, allowing them to stay focused on what matters: clinical care and strategic vision.

With fewer delays, better vendor pricing, and coordinated timelines, our clients often save thousands of dollars compared to a piecemeal setup approach.

Who We Help

We specialize in helping:

  • Physicians transitioning out of corporate healthcare

  • Integrative or functional medicine providers

  • Faith-based practice founders

  • Cash-pay, DPC, or hybrid model clinics

  • Startups in psychiatry, internal medicine, primary care, pediatrics, IV Hydration Therapy, pain management, and more!

Let Cornerstone Be Your Foundation

Your vision deserves more than a checklist—it needs a plan, a partner, and a proven process. At Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management, we’re here to build your future in medicine, one step at a time.

Let’s talk about how we can bring your practice to life.
Contact Us to schedule your consultation today.

Why Healthcare Practice Owners Trust Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management

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Building Strong Foundations: Why Cornerstone Is the Go-To for Healthcare Consulting

Starting or managing a medical practice is no small feat. Between regulatory hurdles, staffing needs, vendor selection, and ensuring quality patient care, many physicians find themselves overwhelmed. That’s where Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management comes in—a trusted partner for medical practices and healthcare professionals seeking tailored solutions and expert guidance from day one.

Who We Help

Whether you’re a solo practitioner dreaming of your first clinic, a specialist launching an integrative or direct care model, or an established provider aiming to streamline operations, we’re here for you. At Cornerstone, we specialize in:

  • Healthcare consulting for medical practice startups

  • Practice management support for growing clinics

  • Custom solutions for traditional and alternative care models

  • Vendor coordination, EMR implementation, and process design and more!

Our Comprehensive Services

From strategy to execution, we guide you every step of the way. Our services include:

  • Business planning and entity formation

  • Office setup, staffing structure, and vendor coordination

  • EMR and phone system selection and implementation

  • CLIA Waived and compliance consulting

  • Practice forms, policy creation, and operations manuals

  • Revenue cycle and patient flow optimization

  • Optional support for DPC (Direct Primary Care) and cash-based models

We also understand that many of our clients are disillusioned with the corporate healthcare system. That’s why we offer support for physicians exploring more patient-centered, ethically aligned, and independent models of care.

Why Choose Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting

✅ Experience: Years of expertise in healthcare operations and physician support
✅ Custom Strategy: No cookie-cutter plans—each solution is tailored to your goals
✅ Turnkey Services: Everything you need to launch successfully—without burnout

What Our Clients Say

Outstanding service!!! Wouldn't look anywhere else. Remarkably responsive and time efficient with all communications whether via email, phone or in person. Pleasant and kind. Vastly knowledgeable in multiple areas of healthcare. Highly recommended, especially for new start up practices!

Brigid O'Gorman, MD

Cornerstone Healthcare Consultants gave me the confidence and support I needed to take the leap into opening my own business. Missy is well versed in her field, there wasn’t a question she couldn’t answer. She is organized and thorough! At times I doubted myself and Missy was the positive driving force to steer me in the right direction. Vivify Hydration Lounge & Medispa, LLC opened 11/1/21, we’re off to a great start! Thank you Cornerstone!

Michelle Maniace, F-NP

Let's Build Something That Lasts

At Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management, we don’t just help launch practices—we help build legacies. If you’re ready to open or optimize your medical practice with integrity, faith, and sustainability at the core, we’re ready to help.

📞 SCHEDULE your FREE consultation today and discover how we can make your vision a reality.

How to Attract More Patients Without Spending a Fortune on Marketing

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How to Attract More Patients

Attracting more patients doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget on ads and expensive marketing firms. In fact, some of the most effective growth strategies for medical practices are low-cost—and sometimes free. At Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting, we specialize in helping physicians build sustainable, patient-centered practices, and we know how to help you grow without overspending.

Here are proven, cost-effective ways to attract more patients and build a thriving practice:

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression potential patients get. Make sure it’s fully filled out with accurate contact information, hours, services, and photos. Encourage happy patients to leave reviews—it boosts your visibility and credibility.

💡 Pro Tip: Respond to every review (positive or negative) to show that you’re engaged and care about patient feedback.

2. Leverage Patient Referrals

Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful ways to grow your practice. Ask satisfied patients to refer friends and family—and make it easy for them with referral cards, links in emails, or a small thank-you incentive.

💬 “If you’ve had a great experience with us, we’d be honored if you shared it with others.”

3. Create Helpful, Localized Content

Start a blog or educational video series answering the questions your patients are already asking. Use local keywords like “family doctor in [City Name]” to rank higher in search results.

Need content ideas? Think:

  • “What to Expect at Your First Primary Care Visit”

  • “When Should You See a Cardiologist?”

  • “How Lifestyle Medicine Can Prevent Chronic Disease”

4. Partner With Other Local Providers

Build relationships with chiropractors, physical therapists, urgent care centers, or fitness studios. A referral network can bring in a steady flow of new patients from trusted sources.

🩺 Example: If you’re a lifestyle medicine provider, connect with local yoga studios or wellness coaches who align with your philosophy.

5. Make Scheduling and Communication Easy

Patients are more likely to choose a provider who’s easy to reach. Use online scheduling tools, text confirmations, and responsive phone support to enhance the experience.

If you’re not tech-savvy, Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting can help you find affordable tools that fit your workflow.

6. Be Present on Social Media (Strategically)

You don’t need to go viral. Just consistently show up on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to share office updates, health tips, and patient testimonials (with permission). A genuine presence builds trust over time.

📅 Try posting 2–3 times per week with a mix of photos, tips, and patient-focused messages.

7. Join Local Community Events

Health fairs, farmer’s markets, church events, or school functions are great opportunities to meet potential patients face-to-face. Being visible in your community builds brand recognition and trust—often more than an ad ever could.

Bring simple handouts, a signup sheet for a health newsletter, or a giveaway like a wellness basket.

8. Offer a Memorable Patient Experience

The patient experience is your best marketing tool. People remember how they were treated—every staff interaction, every follow-up, every waiting room moment matters.

Train your staff to be warm, attentive, and responsive. A stellar experience leads to glowing word-of-mouth that money can’t buy.

Need Help Putting It All Together?

At Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting, we help independent physicians and healthcare entrepreneurs build and grow practices with clarity and confidence. From startup strategy to operational efficiency, we offer hands-on support without the corporate red tape.

👉 Let us help you grow your patient base—without overspending on marketing.

Contact us today to schedule a FREE discovery call.