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In this article:
Exploring low-interest healthcare loans, whether you’re a dentist, surgeon, or vet.
- Understanding eligibility requirements for low-interest medical loans and how to apply.
Breaking down different types of medical practice financing, from term loans to business lines of credit.
The healthcare industry is constantly experiencing change. Between evolving federal regulations, technological innovation, and patient expectations, the cost of doing business is always changing for business owners. To adapt to a changing industry and plan for the future, many healthcare business owners opt for business financing options. But not all debt is the same. High interest can eat your profits quickly. Savvy practice owners look for a low-interest medical loan, potentially with flexible terms that support their unique business needs.
Low-interest medical financing is possible, but you need to take the time to compare loan options and understand how loan applications work.
What Is a Low-Interest Medical Loan?
A low-interest medical loan is a financing product built specifically for healthcare professionals. They’re low-interest because they offer competitive rates that are below the average rate available. While fixed rates are largely dependent on your business and personal credit, lenders often view healthcare as a safe industry, making lower interest rates more accessible. People always need medical care, so qualified borrowers may find low-interest medical loans available from traditional banks, local and federal credit unions, or specialized online lenders.
Even a 1% difference in your interest rate can make a huge difference. On a $500,000 loan amount over ten years, that 1% could save you tens of thousands of dollars that can be reinvested in other parts of your practice. Whether you need to acquire a business vehicle or medical equipment, are looking to hire new staff, or have some other business purpose, a low-interest medical loan can be a great way to protect your cash flow.
Who Qualifies for a Low-Interest Medical Loan?
Just like personal loans, not every healthcare business owner will automatically qualify for a low-interest medical loan. Lenders take a look at your professional background as well as your personal and business creditworthiness. During the application process, the lender will weigh several factors to determine if you’re eligible for low-interest medical financing.
Licensure
First and foremost, you must be licensed to practice medicine. Some roles that may qualify for medical financing include:
- Physicians and surgeons
- Dentists and orthodontists
- Veterinarians
- Optometrists
- Physical therapists
When you apply, you should provide your licensing information and a resume that demonstrates your experience.
Time in Business
You don’t necessarily have to have an established medical practice to qualify for a low-interest medical loan, but it may make the process easier. Lenders who see an established revenue history and reputation with patients will be more willing to work with you. New businesses can still qualify, but you’ll likely have to provide a higher down payment or more collateral. Either way, you’ll likely have to provide a personal guarantee saying you’ll pay back the money from your personal funds if your business defaults on the loan.
Many banks have new-to-practice programs that allow you to get a low-interest medical loan based on your future earning potential.
Credit History
You’ll need a strong credit history to get a low-interest medical loan. Every lender has different requirements, but generally, the higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate is likely to be.
Financial Ratios
Lenders will check your Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR). This calculation measures how much operating income the business makes compared to its monthly payments for debt. Essentially, it’s the same as a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio for personal loans. The higher your DSCR, the more likely it is that you can secure a low-interest medical loan.
Low-Interest Loan Options Used by Medical Professionals
Where you look for money is just as important as how much you need. Generally, you can find financing programs from three primary sources: Traditional lenders like banks and credit unions, SBA lenders, and online lenders. Each has its pros and cons and an array of loan options, but most will be able to offer at least one of the following programs. It is important to note that the interest rate will vary but these may offer low interest to certain applicants.
Term Loans
Term loans are conventional loans in which a lender provides a lump sum upfront that you repay with monthly payments based on an interest rate and loan term. These loans can be used to purchase a specific asset or as a flexible source of capital to address a range of business needs.
SBA Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) works with approved lenders to partially guarantee loan amounts. These guarantees provide lenders and borrowers both with some added security. The SBA offers several loan programs that could provide low-interest loans.
The 7(a) program is the most popular term loan program that can be used for a wide range of funding needs. If you need to acquire a fixed asset like medical equipment or real estate, a 504 loan may serve you best. In either case, the SBA offers competitive interest rates, low down payments, and long loan terms for qualified applicants.
Business Lines of Credit
A business line of credit can be seen as both a financial safety net and an opportunistic tool for business owners. A cross between a credit card and a term loan, you’re approved for a maximum loan amount that you can borrow from to make purchases. Unlike a loan, however, you only pay interest on what you borrow.
Although lines of credit tend to have high interest rates compared to term loans, the flexibility may allow you to reduce your overall interest cost if you only use it when you absolutely need to.
Equipment Financing
When you need to acquire a new piece of equipment for your practice, a low-interest medical loan can help. Equipment loans typically use the equipment itself as collateral for the loan, meaning the lender may repossess and sell the equipment if you default on the loan. This added security allows them to offer lower-cost financing.
How to Apply for a Low-Interest Medical Loan
Each lender has its own application process, but many allow you to apply online today. Regardless of the type of lender you work with, the basics of a loan application remain the same.
Determine funding needs: Look at your business and identify how you’ll use funding to increase your revenue. Lenders love to see a clear return on investment (ROI) plan, so doing this exercise early can help you craft a more compelling application for a low-interest medical loan.
Get organized: Lenders will want to see your tax returns, profit and loss statements, and patient volume reports. Keep these in a secure cloud folder so they’re ready to go as soon as you apply. Having documentation ready will show the lender you’re serious and can help expedite the process.
Research lenders: Take the time to prequalify for loans wherever possible so you can compare interest rates. Even if one offer looks like a low-interest medical loan, you won’t know unless you have offers to compare. You can use an online marketplace or a medical loan broker to see multiple options at once.
Negotiate: Finally, once you have a loan offer in hand, you may be able to negotiate on specific terms. When you’re satisfied, sign the loan agreement, and you’ll receive the funds.
Tips to Lower Your Interest Rate
If your initial offer for a low-interest medical loan isn’t low enough, you have options. Here are some tips to lower your rate:
Increase your down payment: Putting 20% down instead of 10% can often slash your rate.
Shorten the term: A 5-year low-interest medical loan will almost always have a better rate than a 10-year loan. That said, monthly payments will be higher for a shorter term, so be sure you can afford the cost increase.
Offer collateral: Offering collateral is a good way to get low rates. If you aren’t buying a specific asset, consider offering another type of business collateral, like used equipment, as part of the loan.
Autopay discounts: Many banks offer a discount if you set up automatic payments from your business account.
Final Thoughts
The healthcare industry is full of competition. To stay on the cutting edge, you need modern tools and a great team. A low-interest medical loan can help finance the costs you incur during growth or innovation periods. Remember, though, the interest rate isn’t everything. Always look at the fees, terms, and flexibility of a loan to ensure it aligns with your needs and goals. By preparing your documentation ahead of time and comparing offers, you can find a low-interest medical loan that suits your practice.
FAQs About Low-Interest Medical Loans
1. What is a ‘good’ interest rate?
Lenders set interest rates based on a benchmark rate and their own markups. Each applicant may be eligible for different rates depending on their financial profile and the loan product. Ultimately, a ‘good’ interest rate for someone else may not be for you. That’s why it’s important to compare offers, so you can find the best available rate on the market for you
2. Can I use a low-interest medical loan to pay off student debt?
Generally, no. A low-interest medical loan is for business use. You can, however, use medical refinancing for personal student debt. For your practice, stick to using the funds for equipment, real estate, or operations.
3. Do I need collateral for a low-interest medical loan?
To get the lowest rates available, you will typically need to provide collateral. Collateral lowers the bank’s risk, so they’re more willing to offer interest cuts.
4. How long does it take to get the money?
It depends on the lender. The SBA generally has the longest loan application turnaround times, while online lenders tend to have the fastest.
5. Can I get a low-interest medical loan with a bad credit score?
It’s difficult to qualify for financing with a low credit score, but it’s not impossible. Online lenders are more willing to work with business owners with bad credit, provided the business plan is solid, and there’s an established revenue history.


