Home Forums Discussions General Discussion AC "In the Cloud"

I've been using AC for several years, but I'm wondering if there is anyone that has been using the "Cloud" version of AC. If so, can you comment on it's speed, problems, etc?
Is there anyone that has switched from the server-based version to the Cloud version?
Thanks.

We have been using the cloud version for the past 1 year. We had to change Internet service because of upgrades. AC in the clouds requires more internet speed so that was an added cost we didn't anticipate.

I am not "techie" and did not want to bother about backups after we lost some data previously. Initially, it "kicked" us out of AC a lot, still does to some extent now. I used to use logmein for remote access before, but now, I can access AC anywhere I have Internet service on my laptop.

I think it is a little expensive but I can't go back to the "old" way mainly because I am not "techie".

Could you give us an general idea of how much down time you experience, say in a week? A few minutes at a time, an hour, a few hours?

Also, do you know what internet bandwidth you need for efficient use of cloud AC -- is 20 down and 3 up sufficient?

Thanks for your response......
Were you using the office-based version of AC before? If so, have you noted any change in speed...do you have delays while charting on patients? And I am also interested to know how often and for how long is the down time?
Thanks again.

Yes, many of us are really interested in how AC-Cloud performs. Frankly, I like the idea and if you look in the old thread, I think the total cost is considerably lower than other cloud EHRs. Plus, you have the ability to go straight to local if your internet connection goes down.

We have just completed the free 28-day period with the Cloud version. There were some challenges initially with the various interfaces, but these have been resolved. Our performance is much more stable than it was with our Office Server based setup. Our internet connection is Cable 30/5 and is quite effective. Speed is improved and predictable. The only current issue is that AC disconnects too quickly if there is inactivity at the PC, when the doctor sees the patient. It takes time for it to reconnect. Overall, it is worth it and I don't miss having to tune the Server every 2 weeks or so. AC technical support is working with us to find a solution to the quick disconnect issue.

"Could you give us an general idea of how much down time you experience, say in a week? A few minutes at a time, an hour, a few hours?

Also, do you know what internet bandwidth you need for efficient use of cloud AC -- is 20 down and 3 up sufficient?"

In terms of "downtime", we scheduled the installation at the end of the work day. AC remoted into our system. We came back the next day and were "in the cloud". AC claims it didn't take long.

As for Internet bandwidth, they told us 50kb/s but we had 1.5/1.5 speed and it was too slow. So we upgraded to 20/25 or something similar.

And yes, I think 20/3 should be sufficient.

I am new here and typing on my phone. Screen too small. I will have to reply to each question separately.

"Were you using the office-based version of AC before? If so, have you noted any change in speed...do you have delays while charting on patients? And I am also interested to know how often and for how long is the down time?"

Yes, we were using the office-based version of AC before the switch. And yes, there is definitely an improvement on the speed. Little or no delay while charting. However, there is frequent loss of connection when it stands for a while "perhaps when you are seeing patients" and then you want to chart.

It annoys me when I have to wait to be reconnected or I have to login again. There are 2 logins, 1st to the cloud then 2nd to AC. Sometimes it reconnects automatically.

The downtime is like I mentioned above and we only did it that one time.

I am in the process of switching to AC in the Cloud and was told by tech support that they recommend a download speed of at least 18mbps. This necessitated us switching from a slow DSL connection to cable internet.

John

" I think the total cost is considerably lower than other cloud EHRs."

I guess you are right but I am still hoping ......