Run‑to‑Financing Guide for Oncology Equipment in 2026

What is run‑to‑financing for oncology equipment?

Run‑to‑financing is a short‑term funding model that lets oncology practices obtain capital quickly, use the money to purchase or lease diagnostic or radiation therapy equipment, and then refinance or convert the loan into a longer‑term structure once cash flow stabilizes.

The model is popular for high‑cost assets such as MRI scanners, linear accelerators and PET/CT systems, where a practice needs the equipment now to remain competitive, but traditional loans can take weeks to close.

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Why run‑to‑financing matters in 2026

• Rapid market expansion – The U.S. medical‑equipment financing market is projected to reach $87.7 billion by 2035, with an annual growth rate of nearly 8% from 2026 onward, according to a recent industry forecast from Precedent Research.
• High utilization of financing – In 2023, 82% of end‑users funded equipment purchases through some form of financing, and roughly 57.7% of total equipment‑and‑software investment was financed, as reported by the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation.
• SBA support – The SBA guaranteed about $56 billion in loan volume in fiscal year 2024, providing a robust backstop for oncology clinics seeking larger, low‑rate loans (Crestmont Capital).

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How run‑to‑financing works step by step

1. Identify the equipment need – Define the specific machine (e.g., 3‑T MRI, Linac, PET/CT) and gather vendor quotations. 2. Choose a short‑term funding source – Options include:

• Supplier‑backed “quick‑cash” leases (often 0‑90 days to close).
• A bridge loan from a specialty lender that offers up to 12 months of funding.
• An SBA 7(a) bridge tranche, which can be approved in weeks. 3. Secure the funding – Submit a concise application with cash‑flow projections, payer contracts and a business plan. Many lenders pre‑approve based on anticipated revenue from Medicare‑/private‑payer reimbursements. 4. Purchase or lease the equipment – Receive the asset and begin generating revenue immediately. 5. Re‑finance or convert – After 3‑6 months, refinance into a longer‑term equipment loan, a 504 loan, or a multi‑year lease‑to‑own agreement to lock in lower rates.

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Equipment financing terms you’ll encounter

Term	Typical range	When it’s best for oncologists
Interest rate (APR)	5‑7% for leases, 7‑9% for term loans	Lease if you prefer lower monthly costs and maintenance bundles.
Loan amount	$100 k – $10 M (depends on equipment)	SBA 7(a) up to $5 M; 504 up to $5.5 M with 10% down.
Down payment	0‑15% (often waived for strong cash flow)	Lease for minimal upfront cash; loan if you have equity.
Term length	12‑60 months (lease), 5‑10 years (loan)	Longer terms spread cost for capital‑intensive Linacs.

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Pros and cons of run‑to‑financing

Pros

• Speed: Funding can be secured in days rather than weeks.
• Flexibility: Allows you to lock in a short‑term rate and refinance when market conditions improve.
• Preserves capital: Minimal upfront cash outlay keeps working capital for staffing or marketing.

Cons

• Potential rate reset: If refinance rates rise, the long‑term cost can increase.
• Higher short‑term rates: Bridge loans may carry a premium compared to standard equipment loans.
• Documentation burden: You’ll need to re‑apply for the longer‑term loan, requiring updated financial statements.

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How to qualify for the best rates

1. Credit score – Aim for a personal and business FICO ≥ 680.
2. Debt‑service coverage ratio (DSCR) – Lenders look for DSCR ≥ 1.25; strong payer contracts help.
3. Down payment – Offering 10‑15% reduces risk and can shave 0.5‑1% off the APR.
4. Vendor relationships – Some manufacturers have preferred financing programs with lower rates.
5. SBA eligibility – Demonstrate that at least 51% of ownership is U.S.‑based and that the practice meets size standards (≤ $15 M annual revenue).

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Frequently asked financing questions (quick answers)

What credit score is needed for a radiation therapy lease? A score of 680‑700 is typically required; higher scores can lower the lease rate.

Can a new oncology clinic qualify for SBA financing? Yes, if you present a solid business plan, projected cash flow, and collateral; SBA 504 loans are especially friendly to startups.

Are lease rates for MRI machines lower than loan rates? In 2026, lease APRs average 5‑7% versus 7‑9% for term loans, making leasing a cost‑effective option for newer practices.

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Bottom line

Run‑to‑financing gives oncology practices the speed and flexibility needed to acquire costly imaging and radiation equipment while preserving cash flow. By securing a short‑term bridge and then refinancing into an SBA‑backed loan or longer lease, you can lock in competitive rates and keep your clinic financially healthy.

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Ready to see if you qualify? Check rates now.

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Disclosures

This content is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. oncoevidence1.com may receive compensation from partner lenders, which may influence which products are featured. Rates, terms, and availability vary by lender and applicant qualifications.