Dear Arv;
 
   There are many aspects to what you ask.  There is a learning curve and a commitment to the VistA application which needs to happen if you are to host your own VistA system.  VistA is not a turn-key operation.  It is an application which grows and adapts to the changing needs of the practice.  An ASP model can help make such a commitment easier in that the physician/small practice does not have to shoulder the burden of support (keeping the enhancement stream up to date).  It will depend on the relationship that the practice maintains with their VistA ASP provider.  If good communications (for the special needs of these specific practices) is maintained, then the service can be very effective.
 
  If the support is taken on by the practice outside of the ASP model, then accommodation is needed to an in-house support staff, or a contracted outside support staff.  The trade-off here is that new functionality can frequently be added in a couple of days to a couple of weeks rather than waiting for the next release of the code from a vendor.
 
  So from a support and price commitment, the ASP moel has many advantages, especially if one is just coming up in the technology.  From a functionality and the ability to extend the practice, self-hosting or contracted hosting is more attractive.  As time goes on, more folks will be offerring such services, but remember that support is usually best if you know the support provider and keep a good relationship with them.   Communications is critical in all of these operations.
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Friday, March 31, 2006 5:39 AM
Subject: [Hardhats-members] Hosting Vista for Physician Offices

Hello.  I am looking for insights from experienced Vista/Vista-Office folks.   If you were to run an ASP/service bureau-style operation serving mostly small, independent physician practices, what options would you consider in the Vista/Vista-Office realm?   Which of these would be most attractive from a lowest cost/most affordable standpoint?   from a most functional standpoint?

 

Thank you!

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