Aero Cloud: Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Aero Cloud is IntraHealth’s cloud-based solution that shifts the database from local servers at your practice to a secure, fully managed IT environment.
- Traditional setup required complex maintenance and security on-site.
- Aero Cloud offers “software as a service” (SaaS), reducing technical burdens.
- It enables access to advanced features like a Patient Portal and enhanced mobility.
Intrahealth hosts its databases in the Datacom data center located in Hamilton, New Zealand.
Moving to Aero Cloud offers numerous benefits, including:
- Access to your data from anywhere
- Automatic backups, removing the need for manual backup processes
- No more server maintenance or upgrades to worry about
- The latest server infrastructure provided seamlessly
- 24/7 monitoring and management by industry experts, making enterprise-grade security affordable for your practice
- Access to cloud-exclusive features, such as patient portals
Data in Aero Cloud is secured using a combination of robust physical and virtual security measures. It is stored at the Datacom Cloud facility, which is protected by industry-standard security protocols. The system is continuously monitored 24/7 to detect and mitigate any potential security threats. In addition, regular audits, penetration testing, and threat risk assessments are conducted to ensure the environment remains secure. This multi-layered approach ensures that your data is protected and compliant with industry security standards.
Intrahealth manages most of the migration work to ensure a smooth transition. The process begins with a test run to estimate the transfer time, followed by the actual data transfer, which typically takes place after hours to minimize disruption.
Once the transfer is complete, Aero Cloud will be up and running by the next day, with no expected downtime for your practice.
Our team handles the technical aspects of the migration, ensuring that your data is securely transferred and fully operational in the cloud environment.
The cost of Aero Cloud depends on your specific needs and the number of concurrent users at your practice. Pricing includes a small initial transition fee and a monthly subscription based on a “concurrent user” model. This means you only pay for the number of users actively using Aero Cloud at any given time, rather than the total number of user accounts.
For more detailed pricing information, please contact Intrahealth for a proposal tailored to your practice.
A “concurrent user” licensing model means that you are charged based on the number of users actively using Aero Cloud at any given time, rather than the total number of user accounts.
For example, if you have 30 staff members but only 5 of them are using Aero Cloud simultaneously, you would only pay for 5 concurrent users. This model helps optimize costs by ensuring you only pay for the actual usage of the system, rather than for every user account created.
The subscription period for Aero Cloud typically ranges from 1 to 5 years, with the most popular and cost-effective option being a 3-year term. The subscription length can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your practice, providing flexibility and value over time.
For more details on the available subscription options, please contact Intrahealth for a proposal.
Yes, you can test Aero Cloud before committing. After signing the Subscription Agreement, we will perform a test data transfer to ensure everything works as expected. If you choose not to proceed with the full transition after the test, a one-time fee of $1,200 will apply to cover the costs of the test transfer. This allows you to evaluate Aero Cloud’s performance and suitability for your practice before making a final decision.
Yes, Aero Cloud offers several exclusive features that are not available in the traditional on-premises setup. These include the Patient Portal, Provider Portal, SMS integration, and future additions like Xero integration. These cloud-exclusive features enhance your practice’s capabilities, improving patient engagement, communication, and overall efficiency in managing your healthcare services.
Yes, a mobile app for providers is currently in development and is expected to launch in early 2025. This app will allow healthcare providers to access key features of Aero Cloud on the go, enhancing flexibility and mobility for your practice. Stay tuned for updates on the app’s release and additional capabilities.
Yes, you will still need ConnectedHealth for certain services, such as HealthOne and eSpecial Authorities. While Aero Cloud offers many advanced features, ConnectedHealth remains necessary for these specific functionalities. However, we plan to eliminate this requirement in the future as Aero Cloud continues to evolve.
Data Security and Ownership
Yes, Aero Cloud ensures data security through 24/7 monitoring and industry-leading security measures. Regular threat assessments and audits maintain a secure environment.
You, the customer, own the data. Intrahealth acts solely as a custodian, maintaining and securing it on your behalf.
Yes, your data can be sent back to you in an industry-standard format. A fee may apply to cover the costs of this service.
Data is secured through continuous monitoring by Intrahealth’s team of experts using advanced tools. Regular threat risk assessments and audits ensure a secure environment, and the system is protected by robust physical and virtual security measures. Data is monitored 24/7, with regular audits and penetration testing.
No, only authorized users with usernames and passwords can access your data. Intrahealth requires your permission to access your data.
Intrahealth handles nightly backups of your data. If recovery is needed, we will work with you on recovery options.
Migration and Setup
A test run will be conducted first to estimate transfer time. The transfer typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on internet speed, with data conversion taking around 1 hour per clinician.
No, no data is lost during the transition. Your functionality remains the same, and additional features like the Patient Portal are available.
No, Aero Cloud offers the same fully featured application you are familiar with, plus added cloud-exclusive features such as the Patient Portal, SMS provider, and more.
No, the Aero Cloud client application is compatible with your existing computers and requires no hardware upgrade.
Yes, HealthLink is required for labs, referrals, and Smartforms. In the future, we plan to eliminate this requirement.
Features and Functionality
Core functionality remains the same, but Aero Cloud introduces additional features such as:
- Two-factor authentication
- Patient Portal
- SMS provider
Yes, some Aero Cloud-exclusive features include the Patient Portal, Provider Portal, SMS provider, and upcoming integrations such as Xero.
Yes, Aero Cloud uses a new SMS provider that offers lower costs and future development opportunities for SMS features.
Yes, a mobile app for providers is under development and is expected to launch in early 2025.
No formal training is required. Documentation on new features will be provided, and staff can review this to familiarize themselves with the changes.
Access and Usage
Yes, a reliable, high-speed internet connection is necessary for optimal performance and usability of Aero Cloud.
Aero Cloud is primarily an installed application, but a Provider Portal is available for web access to specific information.
If your internet connection is interrupted, you’ll need an alternative connection (e.g., 4G or 5G) to access Aero Cloud, as it does not support offline use. However, internet reliability is generally strong in most areas.
Support and Maintenance
Intrahealth’s technical operations team manages all updates. You’ll be notified when an update is complete, and the application will automatically upgrade.