Rapid strep testing and treatment right from your car.
Sore throat that came on fast? Fever? Pain when you swallow? Strep moves quickly — and so do we. SmartMED Drive-Thru offers rapid strep testing and same-visit treatment right from your car. No appointment needed. Results in minutes.
More Than Just a Sore Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. Unlike a sore throat from a cold (which is usually viral and runs its course on its own), strep requires a confirmed test and antibiotic treatment. Left untreated, it can sometimes lead to complications including rheumatic fever and kidney problems — which is why getting tested matters.
Strep is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. It’s common in school-age kids but can absolutely affect adults too.
SYMPTOMS
How to Tell If It Might Be Strep
Strep throat has a distinctive symptom profile that sets it apart from a typical cold. Look for:
Sore throat
Fever of 101°F or higher (in some cases)
Painful swallowing
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
White patches or streaks on the tonsils
Headache, stomach ache, or nausea (especially in children)
One important clue: strep typically does NOT cause a cough. If you have a sore throat with a runny nose, cough, and congestion, a virus is more likely the culprit. Still not sure? Come in and we’ll test.
TESTING & TREATMENT
Fast Answers, Right From Your Car
Rapid Strep Antigen Test
Results in 15 minutes. This is the standard first-line test and catches the majority of strep cases quickly. If your rapid test is positive, we’ll prescribe antibiotics on the spot and send them to your pharmacy before you leave.
Strep PCR (Molecular Testing)
More sensitive than the rapid antigen test and useful when symptoms have presented in the past 48 hours. PCR results return within approximately one hour and are considered definitive.
If strep is confirmed, we’ll prescribe a course of antibiotics and provide guidance on how to manage symptoms while you recover. Most patients start feeling better within 24–48 hours of starting treatment. You’re typically non-contagious after 24 hours on antibiotics and once your fever has resolved.
Award-Winning Care, Year After Year
Questions about coverage or cost?
We’re happy to help you understand your options. Call or email us anytime for assistance.
Helpful Resources
From strep symptoms to flu season prep, our blog is packed with practical guides to help Atlanta families get the right care at the right time.
Why the First Two Weeks of School Are Peak Illness Season (And What to Do About It)
Fever, Ear Infections, and Sick Kids in Summer: When Drive-Thru Pediatric Urgent Care Makes Sense
Should I Go to Urgent Care or the ER? A Symptom-by-Symptom Guide
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment to get tested for strep?
No. Just drive up. No appointment needed for urgent care at SmartMED.
Can you test my child for strep?
Yes. We treat children ages 1 and up. Our team is experienced in making kids as comfortable as possible during the visit.
What if my rapid test is negative but I still feel terrible?
We may recommend a PCR test for a more sensitive result, especially if your symptoms strongly suggest strep. We’ll walk you through the options.
How long does strep last?
With antibiotics, most people feel significantly better within 1–2 days. It’s important to finish the full course of antibiotics even if you start feeling well before it’s done.
When can I go back to work or school?
Most schools and workplaces require you to be on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and fever-free before returning. We can provide documentation if needed.