Managing healthcare services in long-term and post-acute care environments demands precision, coordination, and real-time access to data. This is where SigmaCare plays a pivotal role. Designed specifically for long-term care (LTC), senior living facilities, and home health providers, SigmaCare is an Electronic Health Record (EHR) platform developed to simplify operations while maintaining quality care standards.
In this article, we will check what SigmaCare is, how it works, its key features, benefits, and best practices for successful implementation.
What is SigmaCare?
SigmaCare is a cloud-based EHR platform developed to streamline clinical documentation and care management for LTC and post-acute care settings. Originally created by eHealth Solutions, and now part of MatrixCare, it provides healthcare professionals with digital tools to manage everything from patient records to medication schedules.
Unlike generic EHRs, SigmaCare is tailor-made for facilities like:
- Skilled nursing centers
- Senior living and assisted living homes
- Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
- Home health and hospice care services
- Adult day care centers
Key Benefits of Using SigmaCare
SigmaCare is designed to replace traditional paper records with a secure, centralized digital system. Here are some of the top advantages:
- Faster documentation with pre-built templates
- Reduced medication errors with automated tracking
- Improved team collaboration through real-time data sharing
- Better regulatory compliance with audit-ready records
- Efficient reporting and analytics for performance improvement
Technical Overview of the System
Platform Architecture
SigmaCare runs on a web-based, wireless, and mobile-friendly infrastructure, which can be accessed via:
- Handheld devices like PDAs
- Laptops and desktops
- Tablets and smartphones (iOS and Android supported)
The software works with commonly used operating systems (Windows, macOS) and browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.). All data is securely stored in an offsite data center, ensuring high uptime and security.
User Roles and Access Control
Every user is given role-specific access:
- Nurses access clinical records and treatment schedules
- Physicians view medical histories and prescribe medications remotely
- CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) access task-specific information
- Admins monitor logs and manage user permissions
Access is tightly managed through encrypted logins, audit trails, and HIPAA-compliant security protocols.
Core Features of SigmaCare
1. Electronic Health Records (EHR)
The backbone of the system. Stores complete medical histories, clinical notes, treatment plans, allergies, lab results, and more.
2. Medication Management (eMAR)
- Auto-updated medication records from pharmacy systems
- Barcode scanning for accurate medication delivery
- Alerts for potential drug interactions
- Cost-saving suggestions via formulary compliance
3. Care Planning Tools
Allows providers to create personalized care plans based on:
- Resident’s medical condition
- Ongoing assessments
- Regulatory requirements
4. Order Management
- Electronic entry of physician orders
- Automated routing to pharmacies or care staff
- Eliminates manual errors and improves turnaround
5. Task Management
- Assigns care duties automatically based on schedule and staff role
- Includes reminders for missed or pending tasks
6. Reporting and Analytics
- Real-time dashboards for patient status and facility operations
- Custom reports for clinical audits, billing, and regulatory needs
- Identification of high-risk cases through exception reporting
Integration and Compatibility
SigmaCare doesn’t work in isolation. It supports integration with:
| System / Service | Functionality |
|---|---|
| Pharmacy Systems | Auto-syncs medication records |
| Lab Services | Imports diagnostic results |
| Health Information Exchanges | Enables data sharing with external providers (RHIOs) |
| Clinical Tools | Connects with third-party tools like how2trak Wound Care |
This integration ensures smoother workflows and helps reduce repeated data entries.
Implementation Process
Setting up SigmaCare involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition:
- Pre-Assessment – Understand current processes and needs
- Workflow Optimization – Adjust operations to fit digital workflows
- Hardware Setup – Install devices and secure network connectivity
- Software Customization – Tailor forms, access roles, and reports
- Training – Role-based tutorials for staff
- Go-Live Support – On-site or remote assistance during launch
Training and Support
SigmaCare offers:
- Built-in Learning Center
- Role-specific training programs
- 24/7 support during critical phases
- Ongoing education for updates and new modules
Facilities are also encouraged to develop “super users”—internal champions who can assist peers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Login or Access Problems
- Use the “Forgot Password?” option on the login page
- Contact admin if your account is locked
Data or Report Access Issues
Use the right reports based on your need:
| Purpose | Report Type |
|---|---|
| Medication logs | Documentation History Detail |
| Care plan overview | Current Care Plans |
| Clinical notes and tasks | Progress Notes / Assessments Log |
| Admissions/Transfers | ADT Reports |
Technical Errors
- Confirm stable internet connection
- Use supported devices and browsers
- Clear browser cache if issues persist
Best Practices for Effective Use
To get the most from SigmaCare:
- Standardize orders and schedules to reduce confusion
- Use flexible medication windows instead of fixed hours
- Implement barcode medication checks for added safety
- Regularly review analytics dashboards for quality improvement
- Engage staff early and collect feedback for system adjustments
The Future of SigmaCare
Though specific updates haven’t been disclosed publicly, based on industry trends, future developments may include:
- Enhanced mobile support
- AI-powered predictive alerts
- Telehealth module integration
- Resident/family engagement features for transparency and interaction
Conclusion
SigmaCare is more than just a documentation tool—it’s a full-featured digital assistant for long-term care environments. Its specialty-focused design, robust medication management, secure architecture, and integration capabilities make it a reliable solution for improving care quality and facility efficiency.
With the right preparation, training, and usage, SigmaCare can help care providers not only meet compliance requirements but also deliver personalized, data-driven, and efficient care for every resident.
