Practice information management software (PIMS) is a crucial part of business for veterinary practices to maximize their operations and profit, reduce lost revenue, and make the workday flow a bit easier.
But depending on the PIMS a practice chooses, it can either work for them and make their life simpler, or it can feel like a battle with the software each day.
There’s no single “perfect” PIMS that’s right for everyone. Team members may have different preferences, and veterinary practices come in all shapes and sizes and have different needs.
To help with the research process when purchasing a PIMS, in our last article we discussed some of the key features of AVImark software. Today, we’ll be taking a look at Cornerstone software from IDEXX.
The Basics and Getting Started with Cornerstone Software
Cornerstone Software (Cornerstone Software | Feature-Rich Veterinary Software - IDEXX US ) is available from IDEXX.
Cornerstone is a preferred provider recommended by AAHA, and the software reportedly helps vets collectively manage the treatment of 26 million patients per year.
A cloud option is available. There’s no seat or usage limitation for larger practices.
One attractive security feature is automatic daily data backup, along with Cornerstone specialists to verify that data is backed up successfully and without data corruption. The provider also offers security alerts, help for fixing security concerns, and a 2-hour recovery for business-critical data if recovery is ever needed.
IDEXX offers data conversion into Cornerstone, noting that they’ve managed more data conversions than any other vet software provider.
Customized training is available for team members, including onboarding and a training plan for the practice through in-person and remote sessions.
Main Features and Functions of Cornerstone Veterinary Software
The key features advertised by IDEXX include…
All the functions that would be expected from a robust PIMS, including scheduling, price estimates, payment processing, client reminders, electronic medical records, inventory, and reports.
User-friendly, easy navigation. This includes contemporary fonts and icons, enhanced search, and a hover feature for access to scheduling details.
IDEXX claims to have the industry’s most integrated software, for working with a variety of popular apps and other programs. Obviously, integration with IDEXX labs is smooth, including in-house machines. Other highlighted applications include…
Pet Health Network Pro (Pet Health Network Pro Integrated Features - IDEXX US ), also from IDEXX, helps veterinary practices with appointment requests, automated email and text reminders for appointments, medical reminders, thank you and pet birthday messages, targeted marketing campaigns, 1-on-1 texting with clients that is saved to the patient’s record, newsletters, and reputation management. The service also features Petly pages and a mobile client app with branding customized to the veterinary practice.
rVetLink, a cloud-based referral management solution.
VetConnect Plus, an online diagnostic resource to support clinical decision-making.
IDEXX Web PACS for image storing and sharing.
PetDetector, for printing temporary pet ID collars during hospital stays.
Portable checkout devices for exam rooms or curbside.
A whiteboard to for assigning and keeping track of tasks, and for updating patient status and tasks.
Conclusion about Cornerstone Software
It seems that Cornerstone is designed to be an all-encompassing solution to help veterinary practices manage their daily workflow more efficiently, improve performance, and grow the business.
In reviews, opinions of Cornerstone range from “love it” to “hate it.” Proponents of the software note that it works best if team members invest the time to train on and customize the software from the beginning.
Training helps team members actually use all the functions that are available, for the best return on investment. And customization helps personalize the software to the needs of an individual practice, so it becomes more intuitive and a tool to improve workflow and efficiency.
To determine if Cornerstone is a good fit for your practice, a free demo is available from IDEXX. Be sure to ask a lot of questions and explore all the software’s features while “test-driving” it.
Also, talk to other practitioners to get their opinions. If another practice in your area uses the software, ask them about making a quick visit to see the software in action and ask them what they like and don’t like about it. Doing your research can help ensure the software you choose meets the needs of your clinic and practice style.
Editor's Note: Looking for x-ray or ultrasound equipment that integrates with your practice management software? Our x-ray and ultrasound equipment integrates with any software with DICOM, to save you time and make your workflow easier.
Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM
