Exploring the Types of EMR & EHR Systems

Digital transformation in healthcare has brought about significant improvements in how patient information is recorded, accessed, and shared. Electronic medical records (EMRs) and electronic health records (EHRs) are now essential tools in modern clinical practice, streamlining workflows, enhancing communication, and supporting better patient outcomes. But with so many systems available, each with its own features, benefits, and limitations, it can be challenging to know which is right for your organisation.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of electronic medical record systems and EHR platforms, breaking down how they work, what sets them apart, and how to choose one that aligns with your clinical and operational needs. Whether you’re in direct patient care or managing operations, a solid grasp of these systems is fundamental for making decisions that stand the test of time.

What are EMRs & EHRs?

EMRs are digital versions of traditional paper charts used during a patient’s treatment. Typically transactional in nature, these systems are primarily used to document medical history, diagnoses, prescribed medications, and other details relevant to a patient’s current course of care.

In comparison, EHRs offer a more comprehensive perspective, extending beyond data collected within a single provider’s clinic. EHRs are designed for secure sharing across various healthcare organisations, incorporating information from multiple clinicians, hospitals, and specialists to support coordinated and continuous care.

While both systems aim to enhance accuracy, minimise paperwork, and support improved healthcare outcomes, they differ in their scope and ability to support interoperability. It's important to understand the different types of electronic medical record systems available, as each serves distinct roles in the evolving landscape of digital healthcare.

Types of electronic medical records (EMR) used in healthcare

Electronic medical records can be grouped into different categories depending on how they are used and where they are implemented. The following are some common types of EMR systems. 

A. Deployment-based EMR systems

1. Server-based EMRs: Server-based is one of the major types of electronic medical records that are hosted locally, allowing healthcare professionals to securely access and update patient records across multiple locations. Benefits include enhanced data security, better accuracy, and smoother workflows.

2. Application service provider: ASP-based EMRs are hosted by a third party and accessed via the internet. This model reduces the need for in-house IT infrastructure, offering a cost-effective way for clinics to use EMR software without heavy technical investment.

3. Cloud-based EMRs: These types of EMR systems offer flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. Popular for features like automatic updates, remote access, and pay-as-you-go pricing, they also support easy collaboration among care providers.

B. Setting-based EMR systems

1. Ambulatory EMRs: Designed for outpatient or primary care settings, these systems help clinicians manage patient records in real time. They are a key part of the broader types of electronic medical record systems used across healthcare.

2. Acute care EMRs: Used in hospitals for short-term stays, these types of EMR systems enable fast access to patient data and test results, supporting quicker decision-making and better outcomes during acute treatment episodes.

3. Hybrid EMRs: Hybrid systems combine features of both ambulatory and acute care EMRs, offering a more complete view of a patient’s medical history and improving care coordination across settings.

C. Speciality-based EMR systems

1. Speciality-specific EMRs: These are tailored for specific medical fields, offering customised templates and workflows. While highly specialised, they may lack the flexibility needed for general use.

2. Multi-speciality EMRs: Built to support multiple disciplines on a single platform, these systems offer varied modules and templates, making them ideal for larger practices or organisations serving diverse medical needs.

EMR systems: Features & use cases

Modern EMR systems are more than just digital filing cabinets. Key features often include:

• Centralised patient information: EMR systems act as a digital hub for storing patient history, diagnoses, medications, and treatment data in one place.

• Real-time data access: Healthcare professionals can access patient information instantly, supporting faster decisions and better care delivery.

• Efficient documentation: Different types of EMR systems help streamline record-keeping, reduce paperwork, and improve workflow accuracy.

• Interoperability and data sharing: Many types of EMRs enable secure data exchange across healthcare providers, supporting coordinated and continuous care.

• Clinical decision support: EMR systems often include tools like alerts and reminders to guide clinical decisions and improve patient safety.

Use cases for EMRs typically centre around internal practice management. For example, a small family clinic may use an EMR to manage patient check-ups, and lab results, all within a single interface. EMRs help reduce medical errors, ensure timely care, and increase operational efficiency.

Types of EHR systems: Cloud-based, on-premise & more

EHRs, due to their broader functionality and need for integration, come in different deployment models:

• Cloud-based EHR systems: They’re hosted on external servers and accessed via the internet. These systems are cost-effective, scalable, and ideal for multi-location practices. They also support remote access, which is vital for telemedicine and mobile health solutions.

• On-premise EHR systems: This type of EHR system is installed locally on the healthcare provider’s servers. These offer more control over data security and customisation but often require higher upfront costs and dedicated IT teams.

• Hybrid systems: This type of electronic health record combines the features of both cloud and on-premise systems, allowing data storage on local servers with cloud-based functionality for remote access.

Key differences between EMR & EHR system types

The difference between EMR and EHR software

The difference between EMR and EHR software lies in scope. EMRs focus on medical history, while EHRs provide a fuller view of overall health. Here's a quick comparison between both:

Scope

• EMRs focus on patient records within the organisation

• EHRs provide a full view of a patient's health by gathering data from multiple providers

Interoperability

• EMRs have limited interoperability, mostly within the system

• EHRs feature high interoperability, enabling data exchange between providers

Data sharing

• EMRs mainly share information among the organisation's staff

• EHRs enable the sharing of patient data across organisations and providers

Accessibility

• EMRs are accessible to authorised personnel within the organisation

• EHRs are accessible to authorised personnel within and across healthcare organisations

Data integration

• EMRs manage clinical data within the healthcare system

• EHRs include clinical, administrative, and financial data

How to choose the right type of EMR or EHR system?

Choosing an EMR or EHR system is a strategic move — one that shapes clinical outcomes, influences patient satisfaction, and affects financial performance. Keep these guiding principles in mind:

• Start with your needs: Every practice is different. Evaluate your workflows, patient load, and clinical focus before exploring systems.

• Plan for the future: Select a platform that’s built to scale, as your system should evolve as your organisation grows.

• Know your options: Understanding the various types of electronic medical records can help you match features to your practice’s requirements.

• Invest in training and support: Even the best software underdelivers without a well-prepared team. Prioritise systems with strong onboarding and ongoing help.

• Prioritise ease of use: From consultants to receptionists, the system should be able to reduce daily friction, not add to it.

• Budget smartly: Weigh the full cost, not just the initial investment, but long-term updates, support, and potential downtime.

• Be informed before choosing: Explore the different types of EHR systems to find one that aligns with your operational goals and patient care model.

Choosing the best electronic medical record system

The shift to digitised healthcare starts with choosing a system that truly fits. Whether you run a clinic or manage a hospital network, the right choice can transform care delivery. Explore the different types of EMRs to find what aligns best with your workflow and scale. While EMRs focus on internal records, EHRs connect the full spectrum of care, streamlining data, access, and outcomes. Refer to our list of EHR solutions to see which ones meet your clinical, technical, and strategic goals. Because in today’s data-driven world, the right system isn’t just helpful, it’s essential to delivering smarter, patient-focused care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between EMR and EHR?

An EMR (electronic medical record) is a digital version of a patient’s chart used within one practice. An EHR (electronic health record) contains more comprehensive data and can be shared across multiple healthcare providers.

2. What are the main types of EHR systems?

The main types include physician-hosted, remotely-hosted, and cloud-based EHR systems. Each varies in terms of data storage, access, and maintenance responsibilities.

3. What is a cloud-based EHR system?

Cloud-based systems store data on secure internet servers and allow access from any location. They are often cost-effective and scalable, ideal for smaller practices or mobile access.