What level of NextGen expertise do I need for basic practice management versus complex customizations?
Basic practice management like scheduling and billing requires intermediate skills, but complex customizations like specialty templates, automated workflows, and system integrations need advanced expertise. Most practices benefit from having an expert handle the initial setup and customizations, then train staff for day-to-day operations.
How can I tell if a NextGen professional actually has hands-on experience versus just theoretical knowledge?
Ask for specific examples of customization projects they've completed, have them explain the difference between NextGen's modules, and request references from practices where they've done implementations. Real experts can discuss workflow challenges and integration issues they've solved, not just basic features.
Can NextGen handle complex specialty workflows, or is it mainly for primary care practices?
NextGen is actually quite strong for specialty practices and can handle complex workflows through custom templates, decision support rules, and specialty-specific billing configurations. However, it requires proper configuration by someone who understands both the software and your specialty's requirements.
How well does NextGen integrate with other systems we're already using like labs, imaging, or billing services?
NextGen has strong integration capabilities with major lab systems, imaging platforms, and clearinghouses, but integration setup requires technical expertise. Most integrations are possible through HL7 interfaces or APIs, but you'll need someone experienced with healthcare integrations to configure them properly.
How long does a typical NextGen implementation or major customization project take?
Basic implementations typically take 3-6 months including data migration, customization, and staff training. Complex multi-location or specialty implementations can take 6-12 months. Ongoing customizations and optimizations are usually 2-8 week projects depending on complexity.
What kind of ongoing support will we need after our NextGen system is set up and running?
Most practices need periodic optimization, user training for new staff, and occasional customizations as workflows evolve. Plan for 5-10 hours per month of expert support for a typical practice, more during software updates or when adding new providers or locations.