LOUISVILLE, Ky. ⁠— Norton Healthcare officials announced an innovative concept in medical care that gives the community another option for low-contact health screenings.

A permanent drive-thru/walk-up express health care site will be built on the corner of Breckenridge Lane and Taylorsville Road, and will offer health screenings and testing, vaccinations, diagnostics and lab work. Additional locations are being considered.

While health systems have contorted temporary tent and curbside testing areas, this is believed to be the first permanent structure of its kind in Kentucky.

“COVID-19 taught us a great deal about new ways we can provide medical care to our community,” said Russell Cox, president and chief executive of Norton Healthcare. “We quickly expanded our telehealth services, but we also began offering drive-thru pre-admission testing and health checks as well as COVID-19 testing.

“We heard from our community that they liked the convenience of both of these, so we have developed a way that we can expand beyond COVID-19.”

The concept will be similar to other drive-thru business models for banks, vehicle maintenance and, in some areas of the country, city services such as vehicle registrations.

Individuals will drive into a covered location and stay in their vehicle for services such as vaccines, lab work and minor tests. 

Walk-up patients also will be accommodated. A provider order will be needed for some offerings beyond routine vaccinations.

When offered in conjunction with telehealth visits where individuals can stay within the confines of their home to receive care, this option provides fast, convenient care from vehicles. 

A relationship with a medical provider is an important part of maintaining health. Testing centers and telehealth visits provide a convenient alternative, but do not replace important in-person visits.