MilkNotes vs Generic EHR Systems
Generic medical EHRs weren't designed for lactation consultants. Here's a straightforward comparison so you can see exactly where purpose-built LC software makes a difference — and where it doesn't.
Why Generic EHRs Fall Short for Lactation Consultants
General-purpose EHR systems are built for hospitals and multi-specialty clinics. When lactation consultants try to use them, these problems show up fast.
Fields You'll Never Use
Generic EHRs include thousands of medical fields for specialties that have nothing to do with lactation. You waste time scrolling past irrelevant options to find what you actually need.
Charting Takes Twice as Long
Without lactation-specific templates, every visit note requires manual formatting. There's no SBAR for lactation, no Dynamic Dictionary, and no fields designed around breastfeeding assessment.
You Pay for Features You Don't Need
Enterprise EHR pricing assumes large medical practices with multiple departments. Solo and small-group LCs end up paying $100–$300/month for software built for a completely different workflow.
Telehealth Is Bolted On, Not Built In
Most generic systems integrate with third-party video tools. You can't chart while on the call, parents need to download separate apps, and HIPAA compliance depends on the video vendor.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | MilkNotes | Generic EHRs |
|---|---|---|
| Built for Lactation Consultants | Purpose-built by an IBCLC | Adapted from general medical templates |
| SBAR Charting for Lactation | Lactation-specific SBAR with Dynamic Dictionary | Generic SOAP notes requiring manual customization |
| Telehealth | VideoCare™ embedded — chart during video | Third-party integration required (Zoom, Doxy, etc.) |
| Parent Portal | Dedicated portal for intake, care plans, and resources | Limited or no parent-facing features |
| Pump Tracking | Built-in pump rental tracker | Manual workaround or not available |
| eFaxing | Fax referral letters directly from the app | Separate fax service required |
| Secure Messaging | HIPAA-compliant messaging with parents | Often requires separate messaging tool |
| Setup & Learning Curve | Sign up and start — no IT setup, no training sessions | Days to weeks of configuration and staff training |
| Pricing | $26.99 – $49.99/mo | $100 – $300+/mo |
| HIPAA/GDPR Compliance | Built in to every plan | Often an add-on or higher-tier feature |
What Lactation Consultants Say
"Excellent customer service. Beautiful layout and any IBCLC can easily tell that IBCLCs had a hand in every part of this."
Christine Staricka
IBCLC
"MilkNotes is wonderful! I love the easy charting and automatic doctor report. MilkNotes is increasing my efficiency and reducing my charting time."
Kara Nellor Sunderland
Lactation Consultant
"I have 4 friends who have been waiting for this feature so they can ditch Intake-Q and sign up for MilkNotes. I've been using MilkNotes since 2019 and couldn't run my practice without you."
Cheryl Patel
IBCLC, Breastfeeding Rocks
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