EHR-based IPS tools gain traction against best-of-breed vendors

Bedside interactive patient systems (IPS) are becoming more popular, with 85 percent of larger hospitals considering buying one, according to a new study by Orem, Utah-based KLAS Research.

Of hospitals using Epic and Cerner electronic health record system, more than 80 percent are considering an IPS from their EHR vendor even though such systems are not as "robust" as those of best-of-breed options. This is causing a shift in the industry, which traditionally has been dominated by best-of-breed IPS vendors.

Among the best-of-breed vendors, GetWellNetwork leads "thanks to initiative, robust functionality, quick development and good service." Skylight and TeleHealth Services were not far behind. Among Epic and Cerner customers already using best-of-breed IPS systems, none planned to switch to their EHR vendor's IPS solution. Announcement