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Preferred Location: Change location
In the county of Los Angeles, the rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have been steadily increasing during recent years, and those of the city of Bellflower are not far behind. During 2014-2016, Bellflower experienced 27.1 syphillis cases, 179.5 gonorrhea cases, and 228.3 HIV cases per 100,000 population (compared with the rates of county of Los Angeles, which had 33.3, 179.5, and 491.7 cases, respectively.These statistics include those for primary, secondary, and early latent forms of syphillis.
According to additional estimates by the Los Angeles Department of Public Health, Bellflower, CA ranked 17 out of 26 regions for STDs in 2010-2014, and had average 1.44 infections per infected persons. The highest ranking STIs for both Los Angeles County and Bellflower during this time line were gonorrhea and chlamydia, which had rates nearing the 1000s.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported 1,200 cases of gonorrhea in Bellflower during 2010-2014
The city of Bellflower has many public clinics, like Bellflower Health Center and All Family Wellness Clinic, both in and around the city which may provide free STD testing or low-cost tests for herpes, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis, syphillis, and other related diseases. However, not all clinics may offer testing for every STD, and doctor consultation may not be available during the process.
In addition, there are plenty of private facilities which offer low-cost, same-day STD testing that be ready within 1-2 days of a visit. The county of Los Angeles also has online testing options available for certain sexual diseases for ease of testing and convenience.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 (CDC) recommends screening for the most common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, herpes 1, herpes 2, and HIV for both men and women. In addition, the CDC suggests women get screened for trichomoniasis.
SaferSTD recommends searching for locations that offer a 10-test panel which tests for the most common bacteria and viral STDs in the U.S. with additional premium add-ons like early HIV detection, if needed.
The CDC2Â provides detailed STD testing information as to when you should get tested. In summary, you should get tested today if you are sexually active, never been tested before, have had unprotected sex in the past, or if you exhibit symptoms.Â
According to the World Health Organization3, the majority of STI cases reported every day, more than one million, are asymptomatic; another reason to get tested today.
You should get tested again in 90 days to rule out STDs that have specific exposure waiting times, including HIV.
STD testing can be a quick and simple process, depending on the type of test you choose and where you get tested. Some may require an oral or genital swab, a urine test or blood sample, or a physical exam to check your genital area for signs of an STD.
SaferSTD has identified preferred providers that require only a urine test, a blood sample, or both without a physical exam.
The speed at which you receive your STD testing results depends on where you get tested. Before you choose your location, find out how long testing results will take.Â
At-home STD testing results are usually 3-5 business days, depending on the manufacturer of your test. You also need to take into account the amount of time it takes to receive the test or pick one up, perform the test, and ship it back, before the lab can analyze your results and report back to you.Â
If you test at a public facility such as a neighborhood clinic, you may have to wait a week, if not more for the results, which could delay treatment. If you test through a private facility, they have the fastest turnaround within 1-3 business days.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified the most accredited and most reputable testing locations. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Some STD testing clinics offer same-day walk-in options without an appointment. Below are nearby preferred locations that offer this option.
The cost of STD testing depends on whether you select private, public, or at-home testing, as well as the type of test(s) you need.
Several at-home STD options and public testing locations can cost up to $250, with most on the higher end, depending on the brand and type of testing. Public testing fees also vary based on income and welfare eligibility.Â
With private testing, you may save money on a low-cost comprehensive 10-test panel that tests for the most common bacterial and viral STDs in the United States.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified reputable locations that offer upfront pricing without hidden fees. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Order a home-test kit onlineThe test takes just 5 minutes and then mail in your sampleReceive your lab results in 2 to 5 daysFDA approved technologyEnjoy free shipping
Founded in 1999, Black AIDS Institute is an organization that solely focuses on the health necessities of black people living with HIV/AIDS in the US. In partnership with the St. John’s Well Child and Family Clinic, the organization launched a Prevention Clinic in Los Angeles that has medical practitioners experienced in offering screening services for STDs.
All Family Wellness Center Clinic provides quality health care to individuals who cannot afford expensive medical insurance covers. It offers several services such as birth control, free family planning services, ultrasounds, and immigrant health exams. It also has skilled doctors who administer accurate tests for STDs.
The LGBT Center OC was established as a volunteer organization in 1971 with a mission to advocate on behalf of the LGBTQ community in Orange County and provide health care services that ensure its well being. It has compassionate and well-trained medical practitioners who offer STD testing, diagnosis, and treatment services. HIV tests are done by the use of finger sticks, and results may be ready in 20 minutes.
Lakewood Health Center is a Planned Parenthood health clinic that provides equitable health care to residents of Lakewood and bordering communities. It has physicians proficient in providing STD services. They conduct STD tests by a blood draw, and results may be available in about two days.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is a public health facility that aims at protecting and improving the health standards of people living in Los Angeles County. Some of the services it provides include providing safe drinking water, sex education, and promoting childhood vaccinations. The facility has competent medical practitioners who provide STD testing and treatment services.
Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care is dedicated to providing health care services to meet the needs and concerns of every client it serves. It has Dr. Eugene Allen and Dr. Connie Yu, as well as a compassionate staff, who serve clients’ health needs exhaustively. The clinicians are experienced in providing accurate STD testing services.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Order online and receive a doctor's order to visit this lab to get tested in as little as 15 mins. Get your results privately within 1-2 business days and speak with a doctor over the phone if your test results come back positive. Doctors may prescribe treatment or refer you to a specialist if needed.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Getting an STD test at a clinic near you has never been easier. When you choose this location, you can get a doctor's requisition to get tested in as little as 15 minutes. Following your test, you receive your results privately within 2 business days, and can speak to a doctor over the phone with confidence, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Why go to a public clinic? Get convenient and fast STD testing that is 100% confidential. Individual tests under $50. Order online and visit this lab the same day for a quick 15 min test. Get your results online within 1-2 business days, and view them privately. Doctor consultation available over the phone, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Get Fast, Easy and Affordable testing at this location. Results come back within 2 business days and be in and out of the lab in less then 20 minutes.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Description: Closed for lunch Mon-Fri, 12noon-1pm
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Please bring the following documents: photo ID. Fees for services are based on your household income. You will not be turned away because of your inability to pay. Services under some insurance plans and physician groups require prior authorization. You are welcome to walk in any time the Health Center is open to make an appointment or see if there is a same day appointment available. Walk in hours are Mon.-Fri., 8am-3:30pm and Sat., 8am-3pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Community Based Organization. Tarzana Treatment Centers provides integrated health care services for HIV positive individuals. Services include primary care, mental health and substance abuse treatment, housing, transportation, and more.
Description: Social Service Organization. You are welcome to walk in any time the Health Center is open to make an appointment or see if there is a same day appointment available
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Description: Community Based Organization.
Description: Pavilions Pharmacy.
Description: Closed for lunch Mon-Fri 12noon-1pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Sliding/reduced fees (based on income) for comprehensive STD testing & treatment and Biomedical HIV Prevention Services are available for the uninsured, underinsured, or if you would prefer not to use your insurance due to confidentiality concerns. Hours may vary by specific clinic. Call to verify
Description: Closed for lunch Mon-Fri, 12noon-1pm
Description: Open the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 8am-5pm
STD rates in California are the highest they have been in two decades. National statistics show a rise in STDs but in California it is even worse with this including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
California’s rates are higher than the average in the United States and climbing fast. Cases have increased over 10 percent in California for the three STIs since 2014 which was the worst previous year. Here are rates for chlamydia.
Rates are similar for gonorrhea and syphilis. Los Angeles County exceeds California. California exceeds the country. Here are some additional statistics of concern about STDs in California.
The state has the third highest rates of primary and secondary syphilis with Louisiana and Georgia the only states with higher rates. Syphilis is the least common of the three STDs but is a concern because of the increasing number of babies born with syphilis. It is passed on with an infected mother.
There were 142 babies born with syphilis in California in 2015. This is a jump from the 30 cases is 2012. California has the second highest rate of congenital syphilis in the United States.
Here are some statistics about HIV in Los Angeles County.
The clinic offers free HIV testing services to black people without considering their age, gender, race or sexual orientation. Additionally, medication provision may also be free based on the clients' income.
The prevention clinic in Los Angeles offers free HIV testing and consultation services. Also, the black communities who may face racial discrimination in other facilities are welcomed by the kind and friendly staff at the clinic. Additionally, clients who need services may call to book appointments.
1833 W 8th St # 200, Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA
The clinic provides STD testing services to its clients despite their age, color, sex, or financial status. It also accepts some insurances and offers self-pay options such as cash and checks to uninsured clients.
Walk-in and appointments are available at the clinic. Additionally, the ethically upright staff provides confidential STD testing services. Moreover, clients receive services at the facility equally without discrimination.
15747 Woodruff Ave, Bellflower, CA 90706, USA
The clinic provides free STD testing to the LGBT community and to any other young or aged individuals that may seek its services.
Physicians conduct free and confidential STD tests. Additionally, doctors attend to clients' needs on a walk-in basis. However, clients may book appointments over the weekends and receive comprehensive STD services.
1605 N Spurgeon St, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
The clinic offers STD testing services to all clients regardless of age or gender. Insured persons may receive comprehensive STD testing and treatment services with their health plans. However, if a client doesn’t have insurance, they may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale.
The medical team provides interpretation services for languages other than Spanish and English. Also, the health center offers STD services to clients on an appointment basis. Additionally, doctors treat clients with respect and provide test results in person.
5525 E Del Amo Blvd, Lakewood, CA 90713, USA
All Los Angeles residents and individuals living in neighboring communities may receive STD testing services. Additionally, the facility accepts some insurances and offers free to low-cost services to uninsured clients.
The health center does not charge any cash for clinic visits. Some STD testing services may be offered for free. Moreover, clients may seek services at the facility via booking appointments. However, limited walk-ins are also accepted at the facility.
313 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
Any client is entitled to receive STD testing services at the health center without considering his or her gender, color, or age. The facility accepts most insurances and self-pay options for uninsured clients.
The facility runs seven days a week, hence clients with compact weekday schedules may be served over the weekend. Additionally, physicians provide services to clients affectionately to promote tranquility. Also, clients receive services through booking appointments.
15745 Paramount Blvd, Paramount, CA 90723, USA
A recent law requires that all California public school students take sex education with the education beginning in seventh grade. Â
This recent act includes the purpose of promoting understanding of sexuality as a normal part of human development. It also has additional goals:
The timing of this education is to come when a young person’s body is developing. It is when a young person can have a strong interest and even a crush on another student. Students are dealing with the effects of hormones. Understanding all of this can be a challenge.
Another challenge most likely will be implementing this comprehensive sex education curriculum in conservative areas. Another challenge as well as a question is how the state will monitor school districts. Educators and legislators also wonder how many families will opt out of the program.
We see reports showing that some in the Right To Life organization consider the curriculum going too far. They object that pupils are being forced to listen to six years of education about sexual health and this new approach.
The California State Parent Teacher Association supports the new approach. They note that pupils should have unbiased information that is medically accurate.
A look at demographics can help our understanding of STI rates in your city and region. The city is the twenty fifth most densely populated city in the United States for cities over 50,000 and it has a population of 76616 according to the 2010 census.
It is the eighth most densely populated city in California. With a dense population typically comes a high number of STIs.
The racial makeup of the city was 42 percent white and 1 percent African American with 52 percent Hispanic or Latino of any race.
We should remind ourselves that due to population density and other causes, Los Angeles County has more infections than anywhere else in the country. Some blame the problem on technology and dating apps that can facilitate high risk hook ups.
STDs affect young people at high rates. They are the most likely to contract the disease through dating app hook ups. The age group of 20 to 24 is more like to contract an STD. Twice as many women suffer from chlamydia compared to men. Men suffer in higher numbers than women in other STDs including syphilis and HIV. Rates of infection are higher disproportionately for the African American community in Los Angeles.
People are not using condoms regularly so this could lead to the higher STD rates. People are going without testing and treatment and unknowingly spreading STDs. This is another possible reason for the higher rates. We also see reports that STD prevention systems have been weakened because local and state clinics have reduced capacity or closed in the last few years.
There are STI testing resources available in your city and throughout Los Angeles county. You can go to an area hospital, local lab or online service, or Planned Parenthood/Lakewood Health Center as some of the options. Â
The Planned Parenthood/Lakewood Health Center offers STI counselling, testing, treatment, and vaccines. Testing, diagnosis, and treatment are provided for chlamydia, gonorrhea, bacterial vaginosis, genital warts, herpes, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. Testing and diagnosis only are provided for HIV. Prevention services include condoms and hepatitis B vaccines.
The Bellflower Medical Center is another option you could pick if you feel embarrassed about being at Planned Parenthood. STD Test Express is another option in your area. They advertise doctor guided STD testing helping you find the right testing option. They provide an STD testing recommendation created for you by their doctors. You can then get through them testing and options for treatment if needed. You can get tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, herpes 1 and 2, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
As we mentioned earlier, we do not know what is the precise cause for why people do not get tested. Services in your area are offering STD tests to be ordered online and mailed to homes. You provide a sample, send it back to a lab, and get results within a few days. We do not know how reliable these services are. The hope is to get approval for these tests from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to sell similar tests in stores. These tests are not all cleared by the FDA to be sold online.
The Los Angeles Department of Public Health noted how difficult it can be to get people to go to one of their STD clinics. The county then offered kits online to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea for women under the age of 25 as this group should have annual screens for these two STIs as these women are considered at risk and bearing the consequences of the STIs.
Planned Parenthood also launched an app in California. Through the app men and women can order chlamydia and gonorrhea tests.
Another option is the myLAB Box. The kits sell online for getting tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis C. They require a urine sample, vaginal swab, or blood from a finger prick to send to a lab.
You might like the anonymity of this approach. You do not have to have an embarrassing conversation with your doctor.
A down side of the kits is that people could get the kit then not get treated if needed. Only about half of the kits mailed out through the program run by the Los Angeles County’s Health Depart had kits returned for testing.
Whether you go to the Lakewood Health Center /Planned Parenthood, a counsellor or nurse at an area high school, an online service, or a clinic or hospital, you can find in your area information about STDs, testing, and treatment. While STD rates are high in the Los Angeles area, help is available in your city in the way of testing and treatment that is confidential, discreet, compassionate, and effective.
Consider how the staff at these facilities is trained to help someone like you, especially with the staff at Planned Parenthood/Lakewood Health Center or any other facility reminding you to check your health, improve it, and keep yourself healthy by always using a condom.
Here are links to resources mentioned above.
http://www.hospital-data.com/hospitals/BELLWOOD-GENERAL-HOSPITAL-BELLFLOWER.html
Each page below contains a detailed report of the local area, location STD statistics and clinic reviews of some the top STD testing locations. The content is curated by our very own editors and medical experts.
