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Top 5 Problems with Used Mobile Clinics

If you’ve been considering buying a used mobile clinic, the lower price tag can look like the perfect solution. On the surface, it feels like a quick way to get your program running without the heavy investment of a brand new unit. But the truth is, there are serious used mobile clinic risks that can turn what seems like a bargain into a costly mistake

Key Moments in this Video

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Problem #1: Extra Maintenance Costs
When you buy a used mobile clinic, you might think you’re saving money—but in reality, those savings can disappear fast. Tires, suspension, HVAC, and even the medical equipment all wear out quicker than expected. And the thing about breakdowns? They never happen at a good time. You’ll be stuck paying for repairs just to keep the unit on the road, which means higher maintenance costs and more downtime for your program.
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Problem #2: Layout Doesn’t Fit Your Needs
Most used mobile clinics were built for someone else’s program, not yours. The exam room might be too small, the storage might not be where you need it, and the workflow just doesn’t make sense. A poor layout doesn’t just affect efficiency, it can impact safety for your staff and patients. And reconfiguring a used unit to match your needs is expensive and often not even possible.
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Problem #3: Outdated Technology & Power
Mobile health today relies on things like electronic medical records, telehealth, and reliable onboard power. Used mobile clinics often have outdated wiring, weak generators, or no setup for modern tech. That means you’re stuck trying to retrofit systems just to get basic functionality. It’s not only costly, it can put your entire mobile program behind the curve.
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Problem #4: Hidden Damage
One of the biggest risks with used units is what you can’t see. Rust under the frame, roof leaks, wiring issues, or HVAC systems that are ready to fail. These aren’t things that show up on a quick inspection, but they hit hard once you start using the vehicle. And once problems show up, you’re the one paying to fix them.
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Problem #5: Little to No Warranty
With a used mobile clinic, chances are you’re getting little to no warranty. That means every repair, every breakdown, every replacement comes out of your budget. If something big goes wrong, like the generator or HVAC, you’re on your own. That’s a huge risk for any organization running on tight funding.
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Final Verdict: Why to Choose a New Van
Used mobile clinics might look like a bargain up front, but the long-term costs tell a different story. Higher maintenance, poor layouts, outdated systems, hidden damage, and no warranty, it all adds up. A new, purpose-built mobile medical clinic is designed for your needs, covered by warranty, and ready to support your program from day one. In the long run, it’s the smarter, more reliable investment.
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Simon Jones
Simon Jones Account Executive at MoveMobility
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Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Are used mobile clinics cheaper than new ones?
A: Up front, yes. But hidden repair costs and downtime often make them more expensive in the long run.

Q: Can I redesign the layout of a used mobile clinic?
A: Usually not. Most layouts are fixed, and customizing them is costly or impossible.

Q: Do used mobile clinics support telehealth and EMR systems?
A: Many don’t. They often lack the power, wiring, and tech readiness for modern healthcare needs.

Q: What hidden issues should I worry about with a used unit?
A: Rust, roof leaks, wiring problems, and failing HVAC systems are common risks.

Q: Do used mobile clinics come with a warranty?
A: Rarely. Most have little or no warranty, so you take on all repair costs.

Q: Why choose a new mobile clinic instead?
A: New units are built for your program, come with full warranty coverage, and save money and stress over time.

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