Urgent care centers are a fast-growing part of the healthcare ecosystem—offering accessible, on-demand medical services without the long wait times of hospitals. But expanding an urgent care facility or launching a new one requires significant capital. From medical equipment to real estate, staffing, and technology, the costs can add up fast.
Fortunately, urgent care financing options are available to help clinic owners invest in growth without draining working capital. In this guide, we’ll explore how to secure funding, which types of loans work best, and how to position your urgent care clinic for long-term success.
Whether you're launching a new location or scaling an existing operation, here are common reasons urgent care operators seek funding:
Opening a new location to serve high-demand or underserved communities
Purchasing or renovating clinic space to improve patient flow and meet regulations
Investing in medical equipment such as digital X-rays, EKGs, and urgent care beds
Hiring and training medical staff, receptionists, and billing professionals
Implementing technology like EMR systems, telehealth tools, and scheduling platforms
Running local marketing campaigns to increase patient volume and brand awareness
Bridging cash flow gaps due to insurance reimbursement cycles
With the right financing, urgent care centers can keep pace with demand, improve patient care, and maintain a competitive edge.
| Expense Area | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Clinic build-out or renovation | $100,000 – $750,000+ |
| Digital X-ray and diagnostic gear | $50,000 – $300,000+ |
| EMR and patient intake systems | $10,000 – $100,000 |
| Staff recruitment and training | Varies |
| Marketing and advertising | $5,000 – $50,000 |
| Inventory and medical supplies | $10,000 – $75,000 |
SBA loans offer government-backed funding at low interest rates and long repayment terms—perfect for opening or expanding urgent care clinics.
Use for:
Real estate purchases
Equipment investments
Hiring and operating capital
Pros:
Low interest rates
Long terms (up to 25 years)
Cons:
Requires strong credit and documentation
Approval process may take several weeks
🔗 Explore SBA Loans
This option lets you finance medical equipment purchases over time, preserving cash flow.
Eligible items include:
Digital X-rays
EKG machines
Exam room equipment
Patient monitoring systems
Pros:
Doesn’t require a large down payment
Equipment serves as collateral
Cons:
Restricted to equipment costs
A fixed-term loan provides a lump sum to fund major projects like renovations, expansions, or staffing.
Best for:
Remodeling or expanding an existing facility
Launching a second or third location
Pros:
Fast funding through alternative lenders
Predictable monthly payments
Cons:
Shorter terms than SBA loans
Rates can vary based on credit profile
A line of credit is a flexible financing tool that gives you ongoing access to capital as needed.
Use for:
Payroll and utilities
Supply orders
Managing gaps in insurance reimbursements
Pros:
Only pay interest on what you use
Reusable after repayment
Cons:
Credit limits vary by lender and creditworthiness
Can carry higher interest rates
Some banks and private lenders offer loan products designed specifically for healthcare providers, including urgent care operators.
Examples:
Bankers Healthcare Group (BHG)
Panacea Financial
Live Oak Bank (Healthcare Division)
Pros:
Industry-specific expertise
Faster underwriting with tailored repayment structures
Cons:
May charge higher origination fees
Define your funding needs
Calculate expected ROI and revenue increase
Check your business and personal credit
Gather key documents: P&L, tax returns, licenses
Compare loan products and lenders
Apply and negotiate terms
Use funds strategically for clinic growth
Add telehealth services to reach more patients remotely
Launch weekend or after-hours availability to increase revenue
Invest in automation tools for faster intake and billing
Hire nurse practitioners or urgent care physicians to shorten wait times
Purchase an adjacent property to expand your footprint
❌ Not understanding total loan costs (interest, fees, penalties)
❌ Overestimating patient volume without a marketing plan
❌ Underinvesting in staffing or digital infrastructure
❌ Accepting the first loan offer without comparison
❌ Using short-term loans for long-term needs
Live Oak Bank – Healthcare Lending
The urgent care industry is growing—and clinics that invest now will be well-positioned to lead. With strategic financing, you can open new locations, upgrade your tech, or simply manage day-to-day operations more efficiently.
Whether you're expanding access or enhancing service quality, the right loan can turn your vision into reality.