Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Escondido experienced yet another consecutive year for rising rates of the most commonly reported sexually transmitted diseases. Part of San Diego’s North County, the Escondido area is seeing its highest levels of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis these last 20 years. If preventing STIs isn’t high on the county’s priority list—it should be.Â
Infectious syphilis rates rose over 15% between 2016 and 2017. Early syphilis is being discovered at a higher rate in men than in women in the San Diego area, with 85.5 percent of those cases coming from men in the LGBTQ+ community.
The county news center recommends the following ways to prevent STDs: talk frankly about STIs with all of your sexual partners and your medical professional, get screened regularly, reduce your number of sexual partners, and use condoms and barrier methods.
The instances of chlamydia are 1.6 times higher in women than in men of this region, with most cases being between the ages of 20 and 24. The total rate of chlamydia diagnoses rose 10%—a reported 628.5 cases per every 100,000 people. Gonorrhea is surging as well, reporting a mighty 57.6 percent increase from 2015 to 2017.Â
There are many options available to you for testing in the Escondido area, though you may have to travel to San Diego. San Diego County runs four STD clinics that offer testing and treatment regardless of your ability to pay. Those four clinics are Public Health Center in Oceanside, County Health Services Complex on Rosecrans, Central Region Public Health Center on University Avenue, and South Region Public Health Center in Chula Vista. If you’re a young woman under 25, you could be eligible for free STD testing (chlamydia/gonorrhea) through a county implemented program.
To find the best services and location for you, use our search tools below to compare location features across Escondido clinics with our easy-to-read chart.Â
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
North County Health Services was founded in 1971. Currently, NCHS provides its health services throughout 13 health centers. NCHS focuses on providing healthcare services who need them but focuses more on low-income, working-poor residents. North County Health Services has a lot of patients who choose them because of their comprehensive services, flexible payment options, transportation services, and are dedicated to having qualified specialists to help patients get connected with programs and community resources.
Neighborhood Health was founded in 1969 and was incorporated into a high-quality healthcare organization in 1971. They’re a private, non-profit organization that on an annual basis helps serve 67,000 people with medical, dental, and behavioral health services. Their organization helps support many different patients from low-come, homeless, mentally ill, to everything in between. Patients of Neighborhood Health will be provided with the best care from medical experts that will answer your questions on-site.
The Indian Health Council was incorporated into the community in 1970. They are a specialized health center that provides their services to those who are Native American. They want to help them be the best physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balanced person they can be. Currently, they have 15,000 clients who participate in their on-site programs, periodic services, and outreach services.
Mountain Health is a private, non-profit community health organization. The main areas Mountain Health provides its primary care services include Campo, Alpine, Escondido, and San Diego. In fact, Mountain Health opened its first healthcare clinic in Campo in 1974. Patients in these areas can find the following but not limited to services such as primary care, immunizations, nutrition counseling, women’s health, family planning services, lab work, and x-ray services. Most people that use these services are living at or below the poverty level.
The Escondido Center is operated by the Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. The Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest has been providing their medical services to the community since 1963. Patients that visit the Escondido Center location will find excellent customer service and informative medical personnel. Patients will find their staff to be professional and very welcoming. All 17-health centers that the Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest oversees provides comprehensive and informative guidance.
The Health and Human Services Agency a part of the San Diego County Government helps provide health and social services to individuals living in San Diego County. Through their vital services and programs, they are ensuring residents are living more safely and are able to not only survive but to thrive. Some of the unique features of the HHSA include some of the things they provide like HIV/STD testing and counseling, a child health and disability prevention program, community epidemiology, and health promotion.
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 daily from 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. 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
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Due to COVID19, currently only seeing patients by appointment only
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., closed from 12noon-1pm
Description: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., closed from 12noon-1pm; Wed., closed from 12noon-1:30pm
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: Need to enroll as a patient. During COVID-19 emergency care is being provided over the phone and through telehealth. Call or visit the website for updates. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Closed Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 12noon-1pm; and Wed., 12noon-1:30pm
Description: Clinic offers confidential, quick and low or no-cost HIV testing. If you do test positive, it offers a wide-range of medical and support services. This site currently has temporary hours due to COVID-19 emergency. Call or visit website for updates.
Description: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., closed from 12noon-1pm; and Wed., from 11:15am-1pm
Description: Clinic offers confidential, quick and low or no-cost HIV testing. If you do test positive, it offers a wide-range of medical and support services. HIV primary care and support services available at this location.
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.
Description: Closed for lunch from 12:30pm-1:30pm
Description: Closed 12noon-1pm
The rates for each of these diseases are high. Thanks to the good work of analysts and statisticians, trends and patterns are identified which are helpful in determining who is at the greatest risk. The information is then used to help plot strategies for reaching them with valuable educational resources in the form of informational campaigns and increased funding for STD testing and treatment for those who cannot afford the costs.
The numbers above only represent the numbers of people who have followed through with the process of STD testing.
There are no qualifications but individuals must enroll as a patient before partaking in any of their services.
The North County Health Services San Marcos Health Center provides adult medicine services, pediatrics services, quick care, dental care, women’s health services, behavioral health services, and chiropractic needs. Those desiring to be tested for STDs will find their lab technicians to be highly trained and caring. In addition to their laboratory services, they offer X-Rays too. This center will help you and your entire family discover all your healthcare needs under one roof.
150 Valpreda Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069, USA
Neighborhood Health doesn’t have qualifications in order to be seen by a doctor or get STD testing.
Neighborhood Health has been serving their community for a long time and because of this, they have built up a positive reputation with the community in which they serve. The organization wants to exceed your expectations so they have built new facilities, expanded their services, upgraded their technology, and have hired more healthcare staff so patients, like you, have an excellent experience.
460 N Elm St, Escondido, CA 92025, USA
To be a patient at the Indian Health Council, individuals must be Native American. They will need to bring Native American Verification (Tribal Verification/BIA Verification) to their first visit. In addition, individuals must bring proof of residency and any insurance information.
The Indian Health Council will ensure you and your families healthcare needs are taken care of. Besides their medical services, they also provide dental services, behavioral health services, have a pharmacy where you can get medication consultations, and finally if desired, patients can join any of their public health programs like community health and wellness fairs.
50100 Golsh Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082, USA
There are no qualifications in order to seen or receive STD testing at this clinic location.
The healthcare team at Mountain Health will care for you and your entire household regardless of your ability to pay. Their team is highly qualified and educated in their respected field. Each person coming to their clinic will receive a created individualized plan in regards to their healthcare status and goals.
255 N Ash St #101, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
There are no qualifications in order to be seen or take part in their STD testing services.
Patients that visit the Escondido Center will find good service with courteous staff members that put the focus on you. Even though patients may have to wait even if they make an appointment, it is worth it for the expert care at modest prices.
347 W Mission Ave, Escondido, CA 92025, USA
There are no qualifications in order to take part in their services besides to be a resident of San Diego County.
The HIV, STD, and Hepatitis Branch of the Public Health Services of San Diego County helps to encourage healthy behaviors by providing accessibility to testing, treatment, counseling and any other related services that help those infected with the disease live their best life possible.
649 W Mission Ave #2, Escondido, CA 92025, USA
It is believed that by increasing the information available about STDs, more people will realize their need for testing. With cases of teenage infection on the rise, the local health authorities and certain branches of government came up with a strategy to reach more young people. A part of the plan includes mandatory sexual health education classes in all of the pubic schools. Students learn about the consequences of unprotected sex and how to prevent unwanted pregnancy and STD infection.
Demographics play a major role in the trends seen in STD rates. People who are born into situations of economic hardship, at or below the poverty level are at a distinct disadvantage from those who have adequate resources. There is a tendency for high dropout rates in school, and a lack of education about the dangers of unprotected sex. In addition to this, fewer financial resources means that there is an increased chance that they will not seek STD testing or medical treatment for the conditions because of financial restraints or inability to pay. This is among the top reasons why there are so many people still out there who need to get tested, but do not. Even though free STD testing centers are available, the funding is on a first come, first served basis and when it is depleted, there may be a waiting period until new funding is available.
The majority of people who are in at risk groups who do not get tested have not yet read the statistics that support their inclusion in the category of risk ranking, or do not believe that it applies to them. The truth of the matter is that it applies to everybody.
Chlamydia is twice as high in females as it is in men. Women in the 20 to 24 age group have the highest numbers followed by 15 to 19, then 25 to 29. Blacks have the highest rates when scored from an ethnic perspective, followed by Whites, then Hispanics. Gonorrhea incidences are slightly higher in men, particularly those who are age 20 to 24, followed by those 25 to 29, then those age 15 to 19.
Syphilis rates are also higher in males than for women. Those age 20 to 24 are in the highest incidence rank followed by 25 to 29, 45 to 54, then 30 to 34. It is also seen more frequently with co infections of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea or HIV in men who participate in male to male sex.
The rocky hills in Escondido are ideal for climbing and hiking. A safari park at the zoo allows you to get “up close and personal” with animals. It’s also relatively easy to pick up a STD. Public centers and private labs are hard to find, and they will check to see if you have a STI. Make an appointment and skip a potential wait. It won’t take long and you will feel better when you do.
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.
