Amelia Barone and her 11-year-old daughter, Harleigh, from Montgomery, were pleasantly surprised by their recent drive-thru healthcare experience.

Both needed blood draws and Edward-Elmhurst Health’s new drive-thru in Downers Grove provided a unique and convenient option.

Barone and her daughter were able to stay in their car while the labs were drawn and they were able to get their tests done on a Saturday, when Barone’s husband was off from work and could stay home with their other children.

“It was a great experience overall,” says Barone, adding that the whole process took about 20 minutes. “Everyone was so kind.”

Pictured above: Amelia and her daughter, Harleigh

The three-lane, enclosed drive-thru, located at 2205 Butterfield Road in Downers Grove, opened in January.

Drive-thru services are available for all ages, newborns and up, with an appointment. Clinicians at the drive-thru perform common lab tests and vaccinations including bloodwork, rapid strep tests and COVID-19 tests and vaccinations. Individuals who need minor medical care can use the on-site Walk-In Clinic. Learn more about walk-in care services.

When patients arrive at the drive-thru for a lab or vaccine appointment, they check in by calling drive-thru staff from their car.

“They direct you back and into the enclosure,” Barone says.

Neither she nor her daughter had to leave their car during their appointment. Even when her daughter felt a little faint, she remained in the car as clinicians brought her juice and crackers and checked on her.

Barone says she made sure to prep her daughter before the appointment to explain what tests were being done, how the drive-thru worked and ensure that Harleigh felt comfortable going through the drive-thru.

“She did really well,” Barone says of her daughter.

The drive-thru services are recommended for anyone who feels comfortable with the lab or vaccination services being provided while staying in their vehicle. Those who prefer the traditional lab process can still visit any of the Edward-Elmhurst Health locations that provide lab work and vaccinations.

As a mother of three young children, the drive-thru is a good fit for Barone.

“I’m a mom of three so usually anywhere I go, all of them are going,” she says. “It’s nice to have a blood draw and everyone can stay in the car. It’s an easily accessible option.”

Barone says she could see the drive-thru lab also being a good option for older patients or people with limited mobility. She adds that being able to have children get lab work done in a drive-thru provides the benefit of them being able to stay in their car seats while they are getting labs drawn.

“It’s a huge benefit for Edward-Elmhurst Health patients to have this option available,” Barone says.

With Edward-Elmhurst Health’s drive-thru lab and vaccine service in Downers Grove, it’s easier than ever to get your lab tests and COVID-19 tests and vaccines completed and get on with your day. You can also schedule most lab tests online 24/7. Learn more about the drive-thru.