How to Build EHR Software Development in 2025

Creating a modern EHR (Electronic Health Record) system involves more than just coding. It seeks smarter, safer, and more connected healthcare. By 2021, about 88% of U.S. office-based doctors used an EHR system. Also, around 96% of hospitals adopted certified EHR platforms. These tools have become standard in healthcare. Still, developing a quality EHR system requires more than technology. It needs a clear plan, strong legal compliance, and a user-friendly design.

This guide explains the steps to build an EHR system. It focuses on improving workflows, supporting care, and promoting long-term progress.

What is EHR Software?

EHR (Electronic Health Record) software is a digital tool. It collects, stores, and manages a patient’s complete medical history. EHR systems provide real-time access to patient data. This includes allergies, lab results, diagnoses, prescriptions, vaccination records, and treatment plans.

EHR allows multiple clinics to access the same patient records. Each provider can view medical history without manual transfers. Doctors at different locations can make informed decisions based on shared data. This reduces treatment delays and avoids repeated tests. It also supports consistent care across the healthcare system.

Also, EHR systems assist with routine tasks. They help with appointment scheduling and handle billing. They manage prescription refills and ensure secure communication between doctors and patients. Some tools alert doctors about allergies or special treatment needs. This enhances safety and decision-making during care.

For example, many hospitals use EHR software like Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, or Athenahealth. Due to that, healthcare providers manage patient information and deliver better care.

Today, EHR software development is vital in healthcare. It provides complete patient histories, lab results, imaging reports, and medication records all in one spot. This allows doctors to see a clear picture before making medical decisions. It saves time by reducing paperwork and automating routine tasks. It also speeds up data access during consultations.

To modernize your clinic or hospital, medical software development is the first step. It creates a smarter, safer, and more efficient system for staff and patients.

Types of EHR Software

Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems come in many types. Each type works in a different way and fits different clinics or hospitals. Choosing the right type depends on your size, budget, and tech setup.

1. On-premise EHR

On-premise EHR is software that runs on computers at the healthcare provider's site. Large hospitals or clinics often use it. They have their own IT teams and need full control over their systems.

• Stores data on local servers managed by the provider.
• Offers high data control and customization.
• Needs in-house IT staff for maintenance and support.
• Requires upfront investment in hardware and infrastructure.

On-premise EHR is ideal for large organizations that want full system control. It is more complex and costly but gives stronger control over sensitive data.

2. Cloud-based EHR

Cloud-based EHR works on the internet. It stores data on remote servers, not on your computer. Many small and medium clinics use it because it is easy to set up and does not need a big IT team.

• No need to install software or buy local servers.
• Doctors and staff can use it anytime with the internet.
• The vendor handles updates and backups.
• Clinics usually pay a monthly or yearly fee.

Cloud-based EHR saves clinics’ time and money. It is simple to use and keeps the system up to date without much work.

3. Web-based EHR

Web-based EHR is a system that users can open directly from a web browser, like Chrome or Firefox. It is often used in smaller practices or new clinics that want a fast and easy digital setup.

• Runs fully in the browser without downloads.
• Works on desktops, laptops, and some mobile devices.
• Updates are automatic and need no user action.
• Often part of a SaaS (Software as a Service) model. 

Web-based EHR is simple and quick to use. It’s perfect for clinics wanting an affordable solution. While it may lack some advanced features, it effectively meets basic needs.

4. Mobile EHR

Mobile EHR works on smartphones and tablets. Doctors use it when they move between departments, visit patients at home, or face emergencies. It is a part of healthcare app development and allows real-time access to patient information.

• Lets doctors see patient records anytime, anywhere.
• Works on both iPhone and Android devices.
• Some apps work offline and update later.
• Needs strong security to protect patient information.

Mobile EHR helps doctors respond quickly and improves patient care. This is vital in emergencies or during fieldwork.

5. Personal Health Records (PHR)

Personal Health Records (PHRs) manage a patient's medical information and are often available through websites or apps.

• Lets patients view records, appointments, and medications.
• Patients can share data with their doctors when needed.
• Often connects with wearables and health apps.
• Encourages self-care and better communication with doctors.

PHR systems empower patients to regular checkups, chronic care, or wellness tracking.

Top Features of EHR Systems

Here are some key features to consider during EHR software development. These features support daily operations and improve both efficiency and patient care.

1. Patient Portal

A patient portal is a safe website that helps people manage their health records. Patients can use it to message doctors from any place at any time. This reduces the need for in-person visits. It also saves time for both doctors and patients. Many clinics add this feature when building EHR software. It helps improve care and makes access to health information easier. 

• Patients can see test results, past visits, allergies, and medicine.
• Ask for more medicine or change their visit time.
• Send safe messages to their doctors to ask questions or get help.
• Available 24/7 through desktop or mobile.

To build a good healthcare portal, many clinics now follow a clear guide to patient portal development. This helps them create tools that are easy to use, helpful, and secure for everyone involved.

2. E-prescribing

E-prescribing lets doctors send prescriptions to pharmacies through an electronic system. It removes paper mistakes and helps patients get medicine faster. This feature is an important part of EHR software development because it makes treatment safer and quicker.

• Doctors select drugs from a digital database.
• Prescriptions are sent instantly to the patient’s chosen pharmacy.
• The system checks for drug interactions and allergies.
• Tracks refill status and previous prescriptions.

E-prescribing reduces errors by removing unclear handwriting. It alerts doctors about possible drug interactions. It sends prescriptions directly to the pharmacy. Patients do not need to wait or bring paper slips. Pharmacists receive clear instructions. This lowers mistakes and makes medication use safer.

3. Clinical Records Support

Clear data handling is a key part of EHR software development. The system lets doctors view and update patient information quickly. It helps doctors make better decisions. They can choose the right medication. They can adjust treatment plans based on lab results. They can avoid harmful drug interactions. Accurate and updated data gives doctors more confidence. It improves decision-making and treatment quality.

• Records diagnosis codes, treatment plans, and test results.
• Logs allergies, immunization status, and medical history.
• Supports custom templates for specialty care.
• Allows easy sharing of notes among providers.

With better records, clinicians can offer safer and more accurate care while reducing documentation mistakes.

4. Billing Management

Billing Management is a feature that automates billing tasks and connects with insurance systems. It simplifies payments and reduces paperwork.

• Generates coded medical invoices automatically.
• Submits claims to insurance providers.
• Tracks payments and outstanding balances.
• Handles copays and deductibles.

In EHR software development, billing and invoice management speeds up payment cycles, improves accuracy, and helps clinics manage finances more effectively.

5. Medical System Integration

In EHR software development, integration allows different healthcare systems to work together. It links the EHR with lab and pharmacy services. Lab results and radiology images show up directly in the EHR. It connects to pharmacy systems to update prescriptions in real time. The system uses HL7 and FHIR standards. This interoperability prevents duplicate tests. It reduces manual data entry by sharing accurate information between departments.

6. Decision Support Tools

Decision Support Tools give doctors suggestions and reminders based on patient data. They help doctors make better choices. They show drug interactions, allergy risks, and missing test results. These tools can also recommend the next treatment step using clinical guidelines. The system offers clear, data-driven prompts. This helps doctors avoid mistakes, select the right treatment, and act fast in emergencies. Care is safer, more accurate, and timely. The tool sends alerts for allergy risks and wrong drug mixes.

• The tool sends alerts about allergy risks or wrong drug mixes.
• It tells doctors what to do next based on treatment rules.
• It reminds nurses about shots or health checks.
• It uses live data to help doctors act fast.

7. Reporting & Analytics

Reporting & Analytics helps clinics track progress, performance, and trends. It turns raw data into meaningful insights.

• Creates custom reports on patient visits, outcomes, and revenue.
• Tracks quality metrics and compliance with regulations.
• Identifies common health issues in the population.
• Monitors staff efficiency and productivity.

Better data supports hospitals in making smarter decisions. Doctors can choose the right treatment based on patient history. Managers can plan staff shifts using real-time workload data. Admins can track equipment use to avoid shortages. Each decision improves care quality and daily operations.

8. Data Security & Compliance

Keeping patient data safe is a key goal of EHR software development. Systems must follow legal rules to protect information and earn patient trust.

• Encrypts all records during storage and transmission.
• Uses role-based access control and login tracking.
• Follows HIPAA (U.S.) and GDPR (Europe) standards.
• Backs up data regularly to prevent loss.

It protects patient privacy, prevents data leaks, and keeps the clinic legally compliant at all times.

9. Healthcare AI Chatbot

A healthcare AI chatbot is a smart assistant that uses artificial intelligence to talk with patients through text or voice. It is often built into EHR systems to help patients get answers, book visits, or get reminders. Moreover, AI chatbots are also active 24/7 and give instant support.

• Answers common questions about symptoms, medicines, and services.
• Helps patients book appointments or refill prescriptions.
• Sends reminders for visits or medicine schedules.
• Works in real time and learns from past interactions.
• Can collect basic information before a doctor visit.

Building healthcare AI chatbots improves communication between patients and clinics. They reduce the workload for staff and give fast, helpful support. In EHR systems, they make patient care easier, faster, and more personal

How to Build EHR Software in 6 Critical Stages

EHR software development is a step-by-step process that needs smart planning, good teamwork, and care for both users and rules. If you're wondering how to create EHR software, each stage matters. Let's break down 5 steps to build an EHR system!

Step 1. Identify Core Modules

The first step in EHR software development is to choose the right features. Each feature should support daily work in clinics and hospitals.

• The patient record module stores medical histories and visit notes.
• The scheduling tool manages appointments for doctors and patients.
• Billing feature tracks payments, invoices, and insurance claims.
• The E-prescribing tool sends prescriptions directly to pharmacies.
• The reporting module shows clinic performance and treatment outcomes.
• Lab integration displays test results in patient profiles.
• Security features ensure compliance with HIPAA or GDPR.

By choosing the right core modules, you build a strong base that supports better care and daily workflows.

Step 2. Plan Data Migration

If you already have patient data in another system, you need to move it safely into the new EHR. This ensures consistent clinical documentation and smooth interoperability across platforms.

• Look at your old records and choose what to keep.
• Match old data fields with the new system structure.
• Check that all data is correct, consistent, and clean.
• Keep patient info safe with strong encryption and access controls.
• Use a reliable backend tech stack to handle data migration at scale.
• Connect the new data with patient portal integration to keep patients informed.

Good data migration is a key step in EHR software development. Combined with data analytics, this step helps uncover care patterns, fix data gaps, and provide accurate, usable information for both staff and patients.

Step 3. Design UX/UI

A simple design makes EHR software easier to use. It helps both doctors and patients work more efficiently.

• Create clean screens with a clear layout.
• Use clear buttons, readable colors, and simple icons.
• Make sure patients and doctors can use it without confusion.
• Test the design on both desktop and mobile.

Good UX/UI makes the system user-friendly. It also reduces training time for staff.

Step 4. Develop MVP

An MVP (Minimum Viable Product) in EHR software development is the simplest version with core features to test real use. It must be functional, secure, and technically solid.

• Build key modules like patient records, scheduling, and prescriptions.
• Use tech stacks like React or Angular for frontend; Node.js or Django for backend.
• Choose MongoDB for flexibility or SQL for structured data.
• Encrypt data using AES or TLS standards.
• Set user roles with clear access control.
• Ensure mobile responsiveness across devices.
• Integrate APIs for labs, billing, and pharmacy systems.
• Test with real users and gather feedback.
• Fix issues early before scaling further.

An MVP helps save time and cost by focusing on what matters most and improving early. Using professional MVP development services ensures your EHR software has a solid core of healthcare and reaches the market faster.

Step 5. Testing & Compliance

Before launching, check that your EHR works well and meets all healthcare rules. This step is vital in EHR software development to keep data safe and follow the law.

• Test all functions: logins, records, payments, etc.
• Look for bugs and security risks.
• Check if your software follows HIPAA, GDPR, or local rules.
• Do regular performance and stress testing.

This step protects patient data and ensures your software is safe and legal to use.

Step 6. Full Launch & Support

A smooth launch is the final milestone in the EHR software development journey. It ensures the system is ready for real users and meets both care and compliance needs.

• Demo on how to use the system.
• Offer support channels like chat, email, or hotline.
• Fix bugs and improve tools based on user feedback.
• Plan for future updates and features.

A smooth launch and a strong support team help your EHR system work well over time. If you plan to build a complex product like EHR software, picking the right team is important. Many companies now choose to outsource software development instead of hiring in-house. This choice gives them better speed, lower cost, and stronger results.

Golden Owl Solutions offers a skilled team, clear process, and full-stack tech support. We are a good fit for building large, secure, and compliant healthcare platforms. With our dedicated outsourcing team, you can deliver faster, avoid risks, and grow with ease.

EHR vs. EMR: The Differences

Many people think Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR) are the same. But they are different. Both store patient data in digital form. However, they serve different purposes. EMRs are used inside a single clinic. EHRs are shared across many clinics and providers.

For both EHR and EMR software development, it’s important to know this difference. It helps you build the right system for better patient care and teamwork. The table below compares EHR and EMR in key areas.

What Is the Cost of EHR Software Development?

Building EHR software can cost a lot or a little, depending on what you need. Some systems are basic, while others include many advanced features and follow strict security rules. You may spend from $30,000 to over $500,000, depending on the scope. To plan your budget wisely, it helps to know what affects the final price. Below are some of the main factors that can raise or lower the development cost:

• Number of features (e.g. patient portal, billing, e-prescribing)
• Design complexity (simple layout vs. custom UI/UX)
• Compliance needs (HIPAA, GDPR, etc.)
• Integration with labs, pharmacies, and third-party tools
• Technology stack (custom-built vs. ready-made frameworks)
• Team location (U.S.-based teams often cost more than offshore teams)
• Web vs. mobile support (or both)
• Data migration from older systems
• Ongoing maintenance and updates

Last Thoughts

Building EHR software helps improve how healthcare is delivered. Doctors can access records, lab results, and allergy alerts quickly. This supports faster and safer decisions during treatment. The system reduces repeated tests and drug risks. Patients can view their health data and get updates easily. EHR software development includes choosing features, meeting security rules, and designing simple interfaces.

Partnering with a custom software development firm with us. Golden Owl can help you turn that vision into a secure, user-friendly, and scalable reality. 

Contact our software expert to start your EHR system!

FAQs

Q1: How long does it take to build EHR software?

A: It usually takes 6–12 months. The time depends on features, design, and rules. If you want to know how to create EHR software, start by planning the key tools and timeline.

Q2: Is cloud-based EHR secure?

A: Yes. A safe system uses encryption, access control, and follows rules like HIPAA. Most modern electronic health records software is now cloud-based and built with strong security in mind.

Q3: Can EHR software integrate with existing hospital systems?

A: Yes. Most healthcare EMR systems connect with labs, billing tools, and pharmacies. Integration is key in healthcare app development today.

Q4: Who uses EHR software?

A: Doctors, nurses, lab workers, and billing staff use it daily. Patients also use portals to see results and book visits. That’s why EHR developers build systems that help both staff and patients.

Q5: Do small clinics need EHR software?

A: Yes. Even small clinics benefit from faster service, better records, and smooth work. Many small teams now use healthcare website development to link their site with their EHR software.