Cloud Solutions for Medical Practices
The cloud isn't just for tech companies. Medical practices can benefit from cloud services too—when implemented thoughtfully with compliance and security in mind.
"The cloud" can mean a lot of things. For most medical practices, it means using services like Microsoft 365 for email and collaboration, storing backups off-site, and potentially running some applications in the cloud rather than on local servers.
We help practices figure out what cloud services make sense for their situation, then handle the migration and ongoing management. Not everything needs to be in the cloud—and not everything should be. We help you find the right balance.
Cloud doesn't mean "less secure"
Major cloud providers invest billions in security—more than any medical practice could. The key is configuring services correctly and maintaining good practices. That's where we help.
Why Practices Move to the Cloud
Cloud services offer real advantages for medical practices.
Reduced Hardware Costs
Less on-premises infrastructure means less hardware to buy, maintain, and eventually replace.
Work From Anywhere
Access your systems securely from any location—office, home, or on the road.
Built-in Redundancy
Major cloud providers offer reliability levels that would cost a fortune to replicate on-premises.
Automatic Updates
Cloud services stay current without the patching headaches of on-premises systems.
Scalability
Add users or storage as you grow without major infrastructure investments.
Better Disaster Recovery
Your data lives in redundant data centers, not just in your server closet.
Things to Consider
Cloud isn't perfect for every situation. Here's what to think about:
Internet Dependency
Cloud services require reliable internet. If your connection goes down, so does your access. We help you plan for redundancy.
Ongoing Costs
Cloud shifts costs from capital expenses to monthly subscriptions. This is often beneficial, but you need to budget accordingly.
Vendor Lock-in
Moving data between cloud providers isn't always easy. We help you make choices that maintain flexibility.
Compliance Responsibility
Cloud providers handle infrastructure security, but you're still responsible for how you use and configure services.
Our Cloud Services
We help medical practices adopt cloud services sensibly and securely.
Microsoft 365
Most practices can benefit from Microsoft 365—professional email, file sharing, collaboration tools, and more. We handle setup, migration, and ongoing management.
- Email migration to Exchange Online
- SharePoint and OneDrive setup
- Teams for communication
- Security and compliance configuration
- User training and onboarding
Cloud Backup & Disaster Recovery
Your data is your practice. Cloud backup ensures you can recover from hardware failures, ransomware, or disasters without losing everything.
- Automated daily backups
- Off-site cloud storage
- Point-in-time recovery options
- Regular backup testing
- Rapid restoration when needed
Cloud Migration
Moving to the cloud isn't all-or-nothing. We help you determine what makes sense to move, then handle the migration carefully to minimize disruption.
- Assessment and planning
- Data migration
- Application compatibility review
- User transition support
- Post-migration optimization
Hybrid Solutions
Many practices work best with a mix of cloud and on-premises systems. We design and manage hybrid environments that give you flexibility without complexity.
- On-premises and cloud integration
- Secure connectivity between systems
- Identity management across environments
- Consistent security policies
- Unified management approach
Cloud Security
Cloud doesn't mean less secure—but it does mean different security considerations. We configure cloud services with security and compliance in mind.
- Multi-factor authentication
- Conditional access policies
- Data loss prevention
- Encryption in transit and at rest
- Compliance monitoring
Remote Access Solutions
Whether staff needs to work from home or providers need to access records from the hospital, we set up secure remote access that works.
- Secure VPN connections
- Remote desktop solutions
- Mobile device management
- BYOD policies and security
- Performance optimization
Cloud vs. On-Premises: A Comparison
Neither approach is universally better. The right choice depends on your practice.
| Aspect | Cloud | On-Premises |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low (subscription model) | High (hardware purchase) |
| Ongoing Cost | Predictable monthly fees | Variable (maintenance, repairs) |
| Maintenance | Provider handles infrastructure | You handle everything |
| Scalability | Add/remove resources easily | Requires new hardware |
| Remote Access | Built-in | Requires additional setup |
| Control | Less direct control | Full control |
| Internet Dependency | Required | Optional for local access |
Many practices find that a hybrid approach works best—using cloud services where they make sense while keeping some systems on-premises. We help you design an approach that fits your needs, budget, and comfort level.
Related Services
Cloud solutions work best as part of comprehensive IT management.
Managed IT Support
Cloud services still need management. We monitor, maintain, and support your cloud environment just like we would on-premises systems.
Learn about Managed Support →Cybersecurity
Cloud security requires proper configuration and ongoing attention. Our security services ensure your cloud environment is protected.
Learn about Cybersecurity →Nephrology Cloud Solutions
Nephrology practices have unique connectivity needs—dialysis centers, hospital systems, lab interfaces. We design cloud solutions that work with your workflow.
Explore Nephrology Services →Eye Care Cloud Solutions
Eye care practices need to balance cloud convenience with the demands of imaging systems and diagnostic equipment. We find the right mix.
Explore Eye Care Services →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cloud HIPAA compliant?
Major cloud providers like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon offer HIPAA-compliant services and will sign Business Associate Agreements. However, compliance isn't automatic—it depends on how you configure and use those services. We ensure your cloud setup meets HIPAA requirements.
Should we move our EHR to the cloud?
That depends on your EHR. Many modern EHR systems are already cloud-based or offer cloud versions. If yours is on-premises, moving it may or may not make sense depending on the vendor, your workflows, and your infrastructure. We can help you evaluate the options.
What happens if the internet goes down?
This is a real concern. We recommend redundant internet connections for practices that rely heavily on cloud services. We can also design hybrid setups where critical functions remain accessible locally even if your internet is down.
How long does cloud migration take?
It varies widely based on what you're migrating. A straightforward Microsoft 365 migration might take a few weeks. Moving complex on-premises systems to the cloud could take months. We'll give you a realistic timeline after assessing your specific situation.
Will our staff need training?
Usually some, yes. Cloud tools like Microsoft 365 work differently than traditional on-premises software. We provide training to help your team get comfortable with new workflows and take advantage of features that can make their work easier.
Curious About Cloud for Your Practice?
Let's talk about what cloud services might make sense for your situation. No pressure to move everything—or anything—until you're ready.