CentralReach vs Cerner

CentralReach is a healthcare software company founded in 2012 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. They specialize in serving organizations that provide applied behavior analysis (ABA), autism therapy, and developmental disability services. Their platform offers a unified solution that combines clinical data collection, scheduling, billing, payroll, telehealth, and ongoing staff training, all designed to meet the complex needs of therapy-focused practices. One of their standout features is their customization capabilities, allowing users to build tailored clinical programs and data forms. They also offer CR Institute, a built-in learning management system that supports CEUs and certification prep for RBTs and BCBAs. CentralReach’s tools are built to accommodate a wide range of service settings, including in-home, school-based, and clinic care. While customer feedback is largely positive about the platform’s functionality and impact, some users report a steep learning curve and inconsistent support responsiveness. They maintain a BBB profile, have been featured on the Inc. 5000 list, and continue to grow within their niche. For organizations exploring practice management solutions in the ABA and therapy space, CentralReach presents a compelling, specialized option worth a closer look.

Cerner, founded in 1979 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, is one of the most established names in healthcare IT. Over the decades, they built a comprehensive suite of role-oriented solutions that serve providers, patients, employers, government agencies, and researchers. At the center of their platform is a robust electronic health record (EHR) system that connects clinical documentation, scheduling, patient portals, and education resources. They also provide advanced revenue cycle management, population health tools, and analytics powered by their Lights On Network®, which delivers real-time dashboards and benchmarking.
Beyond clinical and financial functions, Cerner has offered managed services through partnerships with AWS, SaaS products like Cerner Millennium® and Soarian®, and tiered customer support that ranges from help desk services to specialized engineering assistance. Their focus on security and compliance, backed by ISO 9001:2000 certification and an A+ Better Business Bureau accreditation, reflects a long-standing commitment to quality.