HotDoc is updating the way we integrate with Best Practice. Currently, HotDoc uses the HotDoc Connector to access your practice’s data. Over the coming months, this connection will be transitioned to Halo Connect.
This change will take place gradually from September 2025. After the transition, the existing HotDoc Connector will no longer be supported and database access through it will be cut off.
| If your clinic uses a Practice Management Software other than Best Practice (e.g. Pracsoft, Zedmed, Genie) this change does not apply – you will continue using the HotDoc Connector as normal. |
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In this article |
What is Halo Connect?
Halo Connect is a new system developed in partnership with Best Practice to manage how third-party providers (like HotDoc) connect with your practice software.
Instead of using the HotDoc Connector installed on your server, Halo Connect provides a more modern and secure way for HotDoc to read and write practice data. It uses Halo Link (a small program installed on your server) to securely connect your practice’s Best Practice system with Halo Connect, which then allows HotDoc to integrate.
What you need to action
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The steps to follow depend on what version of Best Practice you're running. This can be found by going to Help > About – further details can be found here. Please click on the relevant tab below to view the correct instructions. |
Spectra SP1 R3
+
We recommend completing the following steps on your main database server, however, it can also be done on any device that is connected to the server.
- Install the latest Best Practice Data Update
Make sure Bp Premier is running on the latest Data Update available in Best Practice’s downloads here. -
Enable Halo Connect in Best Practice
Once installed, enable the new HotDoc (Halo Connect) integration via Setup > Configuration > Database > Setup third-party integrations.
Ensure both HotDoc and HotDoc (via Halo Connect) are ticked.
Please ensure the current HotDoc integration remains enabled during the migration. If unchecked or disabled, you’ll lose access until the migration is complete. Both integrations should remain ticked. ⓘ Important – do not untick the existing HotDoc integration
- For HotDoc (via Halo Connect), select Generate pairing code
- Copy the Site ID and the Pairing Code
- In the HotDoc Dashboard, go to Setup > Install HotDoc and scroll to Enable Halo Connect Integration.
-
Paste the Site ID from Best Practice
-
Paste the Pairing Code from Best Practice
- Click Connect
< Spectra SP1 R3 installed + Data Update >= Aug
+
We recommend completing the following steps on your main database server, however, it can also be done on any device that is connected to the server.
- Install the latest Best Practice Data Update
Make sure Bp Premier is running on the latest Data Update available in Best Practice’s downloads here. - Enable Halo Connect in Best Practice
Once installed, follow these instructions to download and run the ThirdPartyIntegrations utility for Best Practice -
Ensure both HotDoc and HotDoc (via Halo Connect) are ticked.
Please ensure the current HotDoc integration remains enabled during the migration. If unchecked or disabled, you’ll lose access until the migration is complete. Both integrations should remain ticked. ⓘ Important – do not untick the existing HotDoc integration
- For HotDoc (via Halo Connect), select Generate pairing code
- Copy the Site ID and the Pairing Code
- In the HotDoc Dashboard, go to Setup > Install HotDoc and scroll to Enable Halo Connect Integration.
- Paste the Site ID from Best Practice
-
Paste the Pairing Code from Best Practice
- Click Connect
< Spectra SP1 R3 installed + Data Update < Aug
+
We recommend completing the following steps on your main database server, however, it can also be done on any device that is connected to the server.
- Install the latest Best Practice Data Update
Make sure Bp Premier is running on the latest Data Update available in Best Practice’s downloads here. - Enable Halo Connect in Best Practice
Once installed, follow these instructions to download and run the ThirdPartyIntegrations utility for Best Practice -
Ensure both HotDoc and HotDoc (via Halo Connect) are ticked.
Please ensure the current HotDoc integration remains enabled during the migration. If unchecked or disabled, you’ll lose access until the migration is complete. Both integrations should remain ticked. ⓘ Important – do not untick the existing HotDoc integration
- For HotDoc (via Halo Connect), select Generate pairing code
- Copy the Site ID and the Pairing Code
- In the HotDoc Dashboard, go to Setup > Install HotDoc and scroll to Enable Halo Connect Integration.
-
Paste the Site ID from Best Practice
- Paste the Pairing Code from Best Practice
- Click Connect
What happens next
- Migration from Connector to Halo Connect will occur in stages from September 2025.
- Once fully migrated, all HotDoc services will run via Halo Connect.
- After the migration, the Connector will be permanently switched off.
FAQs
Why is HotDoc moving to Halo Connect for Best Practice?
Best Practice has introduced Halo Connect as the new standard for connecting with third-party providers like HotDoc. After the migration, the existing Connector will no longer be supported, so all practices must migrate.
What does this change mean for my Best Practice clinic?
Your HotDoc services will continue as normal. The main difference is that the connection will be managed through Halo Connect instead of the Connector – a more secure, reliable, and future-proof setup.
What device do I need to action this on?
We recommend making the changes on your main database server, though it can be done on any device connected to the server. Only one device needs to be updated.
What happens to our HotDoc Sidebar?
Nothing – your Sidebar will continue to function as normal.
What is the HotDoc Connector?
The HotDoc Connector is the current tool installed on your clinic’s server that allows HotDoc to connect with Best Practice. It enables secure data exchange between your software and HotDoc.
After the migration, the Connector will be replaced by Halo Connect.
Will my staff or patients notice any day-to-day changes?
No – the migration happens behind the scenes. If you do notice issues, please contact Support.
Do I need to uninstall the HotDoc Connector?
No – keep it enabled until the migration is complete to avoid service interruptions.
What if I don’t install the latest Best Practice update before the deadline?
HotDoc will no longer be able to connect with your practice software.
Will Halo Connect come to other PMS types?
Not currently – any future changes will be communicated well in advance.
Where can I learn more about Halo Connect?
See Best Practice’s FAQ and Halo Connect website.