Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Livermore in California is not just a suburb of San Francisco. It is the most populous city in California’s Tri-Valley Region and is the farthest outskirts of the East Bay Region. In Alameda County, Livermore gets included in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward Metro Statistical area and the San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland combined statistical area. That means it suffers from the same STI and STD transmission rates as the rest of Central California.
Since 2013 there has been a 45% increase in diagnoses of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). That is an increase of more than 300,000 new infections in approximately five years.Â
Heartbreakingly, in 2017 alone, there were more than 30 stillbirths attributed to congenital syphilis in California; a completely preventable condition. The highest it has been in almost two and a half decades. Doctors in Contra Costa County hypothesize that the increase amongst millennials, the most affected group, might stem from digital dating services and apps. Open communication between partners and STD screening—early and often—is the key to stifling this rise in transmission.
For prevention, detection, and treatment in the Livermore area, there are a few affordable options. Quest Diagnostic is just off of East Stanley Boulevard, Valley Care is on Holmes Street, and Axis Community Health is right off Livermore Avenue. Free STD testing may be available if you’re able to trek into San Francisco to look for it. Public clinics are often crowded and operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, so plan your day accordingly.Â
To find the best services and location for you, use our search tools below to compare location features across Livermore 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
The Berkeley Free Clinic emerged in 1969 and was known as a "street medicine" clinic but it has become a permanent stalwart of the Berkely community.
It does not charge fees for its services and has a holistic approach to care and support. It generates money from governmental and organizational donations and programs.
It also emphasizes knowledge and education, and part of its vision is for the community to self empower itself with it providing the resources to make that possible. Run by volunteers they have had extensive classroom and clinic-based training.
It provides HIV testing as well as other STD testing and also conducts rapid blood testing for HIV.
ValleyCare's service laboratory, part of Stanford Health Care, offers laboratory testing including STD testing in Livermore, CA, at an outpatient drawing station.
Testing is done onsite and samples are sent away for most infections but rapid blood testing is applied, which means test results are returned within two to three days. Most STDs are covered and vaccines are available as well.
Kaiser Permanente is a member-based health organization founded for the provision of healthcare that is open to everyone, providing healthcare coverage and treatment through the same organization. It covers a range of different conditions including specialist care.
Its location in Antioch, CA, around 34 miles from Livermore, CA, provides STD testing and HIV testing, with your samples sent to the lab. It covers most STDs and can be arranged by appointment.
Planned Parenthood is a leading family planning and reproductive healthcare facility with 600 centers across the country. This facility in San Ramon, CA is located around 15 miles from Livermore, CA.
The center operates an inclusive policy and it offers interpreters who speak English and Spanish. If you require a translator or speak a different language then you can request one when you make your booking, by phone.
You can also book online, and while nurses will administer the tests for STD testing, doctors are available at the center should you want to discuss anything.
Axis Community Health is a community-centric health center that gives access to medical care, mental health services and counseling through affordable provision.
It started in 1972 initially as a resource for low-income children in the Eastern Alameda County who were closed out from the health system. Now in addition to medical care, it has expanded its services and opened the center up to all age groups. There are also now five sites covering 14,000 people in the Tri-Valley area.
This clinic is a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center (FQHC) for Almeda County, located in Fremont, CA, around 14 miles from Livermore, CA.
It provides a broad spectrum of services including community health programs targeted toward teenagers or adolescents. This can include the annual pap/smear test, birth control, family planning or other aspects of reproductive and sexual health. It also includes STD testing and treatment.
The services are confidential and the clinic even has a private entrance and separate waiting area for discretion.
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: Saturday by appointment only
Description: During COVID-19 pandemic all in-person appointments are at 5925 W. Las Positas Blvd., Suite 100, Pleasanton. This site is being maintained with extra cleaning and screening to ensure staff and patient safety. Visit website for any updates. Saturday by appointment only
Description: Closed Mon.-Fri., 1pm-1:30pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Open 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Saturday of each month
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Fees for services are based on your household income. Typically, open only the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month
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: Suite A: Medical Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Suite D: Teen Clinic Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Suite F: Medical, Behavioral Health Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Suite N: Women’s Health Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Description: closed Mon.-Fri., 1pm-1:30pm
Description: Social Service Organization.
Description: Note: Closed from noon to 1 pm daily. Open every 3rd Saturday form 8:30 am to 5 pm. Must have active medical insurance, and must register as a patient. Open the 2nd Saturday of each month. Call for specific clinic hours
Description: Need to register as a patient
With the recent release of statistics by the CDC and Alameda County Health Department it has become impossible to ignore the rising STD rates. The county is currently has the 4th highest Syphilis and Gonorrhea rates in the state, and the number of new HIV cases reported each year are also climbing. The statistics also show that the rates have been steadily climbing over the past twenty years.
Teens and young adults ages 20 to 24 have the highest risk for contracting Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Chlamydia incidents are also up in women, though the numbers of females that test positive for Gonorrhea are decreasing. Unfortunately the same is not true for men who have been testing positive for Gonorrhea with increasing frequency.
Men are not only at risk for contracting Gonorrhea, but Syphilis and HIV/AIDS as well. The statistics show that the rates for these sexually transmitted diseases are falling or staying below state averages in women, but are rapidly rising in men. Currently the county ranks 4th in the state, even though it is not as densely populated as some other areas. This only highlights the fact that regular STD testing needs to be a part of everyone’s health care routine.
Some of the other statistics that has health officials concerned and that residents should be aware of include,
No age or income restrictions exist for this clinic.
The clinic is a lauded resource but it is based in Berkely, CA, which is 40 miles from Livermore, CA.
2339 Durant Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
Anyone can be tested at the drawing station in Livermore, CA or you can visit the Pleasonton clinic. Free STD testing may be available.
Testing is easily accessible at this Livermore, CA station if you can make its operational hours. Although treatment cannot be directly accessed from testing staff, Stanford Health Care may be able to provide primary care services.
1133 E Stanley Blvd, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
You need to be a member to access the services and some healthcare coverage may facilitate free STD testing but in some cases, fees may apply for lab work.
Healthcare from Kaiser Permanente has not been particularly recommended although it is a unique coverage and care combined service that provides an additional resource or option for Livermore, CA residents. Fees may also be costly.
Kaiser Antioch Medical Center - Main Building, 4501 Sand Creek Rd, Antioch, CA 94531, USA
There are no age or income restrictions. The staff may ask anyone under 13 to bring a guardian with them. Those on a low income can discuss payment options with staff and free STD testing may be available.
A clean and efficient clinic with helpful staff according to previous visitors. It is located a little far for Livermore, CA residents and you may need a car to get there.
200 Porter Dr #200, San Ramon, CA 94583, USA
All members of the community regardless of age or income level are welcome to attend the center. Free STD testing may be available according to financial means.
The doctors at the clinic have a good reputation and the community approach allows for everyone to feel welcome and share concerns with the trained staff. It is located in Livermore, CA, a convenient spot for residents. Appointments can be hard to get at times.
3311 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
Services are for the 12-24 year age group but no parent/guardian consent is required and no adult is notified of your appointment with the clinic. It may also provide free STD testing.
Doctors are said to be sensitive to teen and pre-teen needs and confidentiality has increased accessibility to STD testing. It is a little far at 14 travel miles from Livermore, CA, however.
1999 Mowry Ave Ste N, Fremont, CA 94538, USA
At the start of the 2016 school year students will now receive comprehensive and medically accurate sex education, thanks to the passage of a bill. The new state law requires all public school districts to provide age appropriate health and sex education to all students beginning in the 7th grade. With teen pregnancy rates at all-time highs and the number of STDs reported each year rising, state lawmakers are hopeful that this will be one of the first steps taken towards addressing this problem.
While some counties have already implemented the new sex education curriculum, Alameda County is not one of them. One of the problems that state lawmakers did not address was whether all public school districts could afford to change and implement the new curriculum. The financial crisis of 2008 forced the state and federal government to make cuts to education, and this has left many school districts unable to afford the new curriculum.
This means that even though students are supposed to receive the information they need to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases, it is not occurring in all public schools districts. Teens and young adults still do not realize how important regular HIV testing in Livermore is, especially now that it is listed as an “epidemic”. The same is also true regarding Herpes testing in Livermore, even though the simple procedure could stop the spread of the contagious disease.
This Tri-Valley city enjoys a diverse population and while this adds to its appeal, it is also affecting the area’s STD rates. Health officials are finding it difficult to reach all of the residents, and even though sex education is now offered in the public schools not all students are participating due to religious or cultural beliefs.
It is also taking time for the public schools to implement the new sex education curriculum, and this means that some students are still graduating without understanding the risks and responsibilities that come with being sexually active. It is not uncommon for some teens and young adults to not know how to properly use a condom, and very few understand how important it is to get tested for all of the sexually transmitted diseases on a regular basis.
Adding to the problems are the budget cuts to health care that were a result of the 2008 financial crisis. The implementation of “Obamacare” is also contributing to the city’s high STD rates. The budget cuts forced many STI clinics to close their doors, and this is making it difficult for residents to find a place to get tested. When the federal health care plan took effect it meant that Medicaid no longer covered regular STD testing. This has made it almost impossible for many lower income residents to afford the testing fees.
Until these and other issues are resolved the city and county can expect to see its STD rates continue to rise.
Before you head of to one of the regional state parks or explore Altamont Pass it is important to take a few minutes to think about your sexual health. While there are nearby STI clinics for residents to take advantage of, the long lines and crowded waiting rooms has many searching for a more convenient option. Now you can easily schedule confidential STD testing with one simple phone call, and only spend a few minutes at a conveniently located lab. This way you can take care of your sexual health, and still have plenty of time to explore the scenic Tri-Valley area.
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.
