Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
In recent years, there has been an increase in the rate of STDs in Lynwood City. In 2015, an aggregate of 56,565 cases of Chlamydia was reported by the County Department of Health.
The number of cases reported has been on the rise over the past 5 years, resulting in a 13 percent increase from 2011 to2015. In 2015, the overall Chlamydia rate was estimated to be 555 per 100,000 persons.
There were 5,050 cases of Syphilis in 2015 and 31 percent of the cases were staged as either primary or secondary while 32 percent as latent or late syphilis. The number has been increasing from 2011 to 2015.
Over the past 5 years, cases of Gonorrhea have been increasing in Lynwood city. In 2015, 17,442 cases of Gonorrhea were reported, resulting in a 74 percent increase from 2011 to 2015. The overall Gonorrhea rate was 171 per 100,000 in 2015.
To reduce the incidents and burden of STDs, the County Department of Health has developed activities of interest to the local public health system. This has been made possible through proper administration and inter-organizational planning.
Public health centers such as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Centre for public health, Wesley Health Centres-Lynwood South and Wesley Health Centres-Lynwood North are committed to encouraging residents to pursue a healthy sexual lifestyle.
Affordable STD treatment and free STD testing services are offered in the above health centers. However, one must book an appointment due to a large number of patients visiting the facilities.
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 Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is a not for profit, student-centered organization that is dedicated to health equity and social balance for underserved communities. They use tools such as educational outreach, clinic service, and engagement with local groups and retailers to better quality of life for all.
The Oasis clinic is an HIV specialty clinic that employs veterans of the HIV/AIDS field to treat and test individuals who may be afflicted with the disease. They are passionate about delivering top-notch care and will encourage patients to enrol with the California AIDS Drug Assistance Program.
John Wesley Community Health Centers are part of the JWHC Institute, a non-profit health agency that was established by Los Angeles County physicians who sought to augment patient care and education at facilities throughout the county almost 60 years ago. White they previously found their purpose in contributing to medical research and establishing high-quality medical education, they currently prioritize medical services and patient support.
The Health Centers are capable of offering: pediatric care, behavioral health care, podiatric health care, and chronic disease management. Reproductive health specialists are also on site to oversee STD testing and screening.
St. John's Well Child and Family Center was started years ago as a simple one-room clinic that was run by volunteers only and has since grown into an entire network of community health centers that is capable of working with individuals of all ages. They are well-versed in the areas of medical, dental, and mental health care for their patients as well as not being afraid to offer social assistance programs to those who need it.
St. John's Well Child and Family Center is also a firm advocate for providing equal care to patients regardless of their immigration status and income level.
The Watts Healthcare Corporation was incorporated as a not for profit organization in 2002 and has been working since then to provide their members of their community with top quality health care and medical assistance. They employ more than 300 employees across their many facilities who see an average of over 100,000 patient visits every year.
The doctors and nurse practitioners at these clinics are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and medical technology in addition to staying abreast of recent medical research and advances. Service is offered in both English and Spanish with other languages being available upon early request.
Based in New York City and Washington DC, Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that runs clinics in many countries across the world that prioritize providing sexual health care to underserved communities regardless of the patient's ability to pay, sexual orientation, and cultural background.
Planned Parenthood Los Angeles has been in operation for more than 40 years and helps the communities in its region family planning, sexual health education presentations, and advocating for contraceptive equity. Their service is provided in both English and Spanish and there are specialized pockets of the population, who are more at risk, that are the targets of more accessible health care.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is responsible for the well-being of its residents. It conducts surveillance and medical case management for communicable diseases and seeks to promote educational opportunities and activities for the community to become more involved in living a healthier life. Their basic mission is to improve quality of life and reduce health disparities in the different populations under their purview.
The STD clinic run by the Health Department has a rotating schedule that needs to be consulted before deciding to become a walk-in patient.
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: Open the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 8am-5pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Educational Organization/Institution.
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: 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
Description: Closed daily from 12noon-1pm
Description: Hours above are temporary. Please call or visit website for updates
Description: Community Based Organization.
Description: Closed daily from 12pm-1pm
Description: Closed daily from 12noon-1pm
In recent decades, sexually transmitted diseases have re-emerged as a public health concern across the United States. Recent newspaper articles have highlighted the dramatic surge in the number of STD cases, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Its syphilis rates have also increased at an alarming pace. There has been significant speculation about what factors have fueled this rise. Some sociologists have pointed to the fact that Los Angeles has a much younger average population than many urban areas, and many of these young people regularly use social media and apps, such as Tinder, to hook up with others. The higher the number of partners that an individual has, the greater the likelihood that he/she will be diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease.
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, chlamydia cases have increased more than 17 percent in recent years. There are more than 50,000 newly diagnosed chlamydia cases each year. Although chlamydia is treatable via antibiotics, chlamydia may profoundly negatively impact a young woman’s lifelong fertility. Thus, it is highly concerning from a public health perspective. Â
Gonorrhea figures have also shown a similar dramatic uptick in recent years. The number of diagnosed gonorrhea cases in Los Angeles County increased from roughly 9500 in 2010 to almost 15,000 in 2014. And, if recent newspaper reports are to be believed, this trend is continuing unchecked into 2017.
For myriad reasons, over the last two decades, syphilis has re-emerged as a public health crisis and infection rates have skyrocketed across the country. Although syphilis rates are particularly high in struggling blue collar communities across the Midwest Rust Belt, Los Angeles County has not been immune to the problem. In recent years, the number of reported syphilis infections has nearly doubled. It is also important to note that many doctors still tend to not aggressively test for syphilis. Therefore, these reported figures likely significantly underestimate the true incidence rate for the disease.
Interestingly, as the incidence rates for other STDs has soared in Los Angeles County, the number of reported HIV/AIDS cases has declined as organizations continue to work to educate vulnerable communities (such as the LGBTQ community and drug users) about the dangers of the disease and how to effectively prevent transmission. Â The vast majority of HIV-positive individuals in Los Angeles County are men, and particularly homosexual males. However, this is also the group that has seen the most dramatic decline in newly diagnosed cases.
HIV testing and referral services are provided free of charge to the general public.
The Oasis Clinic is run by the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine Science, which is a private university that has a specialization in promoting more equal public health care to all populations.
In addition to facilities like the Oasis clinic that test for HIV/AIDS in a fixed location, the University also operates a mobile HIV testing project. The mobile unit finds its way around the city to high risk areas.
1807 E 120th St, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
Patients under Medicare and Medicaid are accepted at this clinic and a sliding fee scale is provided for patients who can prove lower household income.
The Lynwood North Wesley Health Center provides comprehensive medical services to people of all ages and backgrounds. The testing for STDs is administered by medical professionals who take care to preserve patient privacy and pay particular attention to supplementary services after the testing.
There are also enrollment specialists who work at the clinic to help the patient through the registration process.
3591 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood, CA 90262, USA
HIV testing is provided at no cost to the patient and other STD tests incur a nominal fee that could be subject to a sliding fee scale for low-income individuals and households.
The St. John's Well Child and Family Center has been in operation for many years and is an active contributor in the communities where they have clinics. They work closely with local child welfare, legal, and economic development agencies to help offer tailored programs that are sensitive to the needs of the region.
STD testing and screening is available at all of their many clinics.
2115 N Wilmington Ave, Compton, CA 90222, USA
Medicaid and Medicare are both accepted at Watts Healthcare Centers and a sliding fee scale is available to patients who are able to prove low household income.
The Watts Healthcare Corporation is located in the heart of Compton and offers what they describe as "compassionate, quality, culturally sensitive preventive and primary health care services". The wide spectrum of programs they offer include: vision, dental, and reproductive health.
Watts has a modern and efficient website that allows patients to register and view their medical records or details on their latest visit.
Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90002, USA
Patients who are not covered by insurance could be eligible for a state-sponsored program that will cover medical fees or qualify them for lower fee rates.
The Planned Parenthood clinic at the Dorothy Hecht Center is a branch of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles that provides many of the same programs and services that one would expect from Planned Parenthood.
Due to the well-known nature of the organization, there can be a large influx of walk-in patients on any given day. It is advisable to book an appointment beforehand to guarantee treatment.
8520 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90003, USA
HIV testing is provided for free to the general public as part of their STD clinic. HPV testing has no cost for individuals under the age of 18 years.
Testing availability at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Public Health is on a first come first served basis for walk-in patients.
HIV testing is provided at during STD clinic hours and it should be noted that HPV vaccines are only offered to those 18 years old or younger free of charge. Patients don't need to be a resident of the county to receive medical services.
11833 Wilmington Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90059, USA
Sexual health education continues to be a controversial topic in public schools across the country. Â Sexual health educators and public health advocates argue that it is important that children receive comprehensive sexual health education that underscores the importance of using condoms and regularly testing for STDs. These educators recognize that most young adults will be sexually active during their teenage years, and frequently with multiple partners. The goal is not to stop these sexual activities, but rather to ensure that they are as safe and healthy as possible. However, not everyone agrees with this approach. Many parents and conservative community members favor abstinence-based programs, despite research that shows these programs tend to be less effective (measured across a wide variety of indicators).
The Lynwood Public Schools, and public schools across the Los Angeles metropolitan area, do a better job than average in educating children and young adults about sexual health. However, these lessons are not always supported at home in Lynwood. Many recently settled immigrants in the community are staunch Roman Catholics and they frown on both pre-marital sexual relations and condom use. This results in children hearing a very mixed message on sexual health.
Given the large number of Lynwood, California residents who are under the age of 18, sexual health education is a vitally important topic in this community. Parents, educators, and activists should be encouraged to send a consistent and positive message about sexual health.
According to the most recent census, Lynwood, California has a population of just under 70,000 individuals. This represents a slight decline compared with the 2000 census and indicates that many recent immigrants still continue to find Lynwood an attractive living option because of its relatively low cost housing options. However, concerns with a growing crime rate in the area temper many people’s enthusiasm about living in Lynwood. Due to the relatively high poverty rate in the community and low average household income, it should not be surprising that a significant percentage of Lynwood residents rent, rather than own, their homes.
Given that Latinx immigrants tend to have relatively higher birth rates than many other demographic groups, it does not come as a shock that more than 2/3 of the community’s households have children under the age of 18. This high percentage of younger residents also helps explain Lynwood’s troublingly high rates of STDs. Across the country, a large number of newly diagnosed chlamydia and gonorrhea cases are impacting teenagers and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24.
Many of these young adults tend to engage in promiscuous sexual relations with multiple partners, and many of these hook-ups are also fueled by drugs and alcohol. Evidence suggests that substance use lowers people’s inhibitions and also decreases the likelihood that people will use safe sexual health practices. Communities with large tween and teen populations, such as Lynwood, are disproportionately impacted by this trend.
Given that Lynwood, California is located in the country’s second largest metropolitan area (Los Angeles), it should come as no surprise that residents have a wide range of testing options that they can select from to address their sexual health needs.
These testing options include a variety of for-pay clinics that specialize in STD testing, as well as private doctors’ offices. The drawback of these options is that they are often expensive and many of the economically vulnerable residents of Lynwood may be unable to afford them. Also, for-pay testing centers often do not offer follow-up care following a positive test result; and these testing facilities may not have multi-lingual staff. Language barriers may be a significant impediment to care for many Lynwood residents.
For individuals who are concerned about having an affordable STD testing option, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Public Health, a branch of the California Department of Public Health, offers low cost testing for a wide range of sexually transmitted diseases. This Center consistently receives outstanding reviews from the patients who use it. Its staff also includes trained professionals who speak a wide variety of languages. This is an important factor for many Lynwood residents. With payments on a sliding fee scale, STD testing at the Center is affordable for everyone.
Other Lynwood residents choose to have their sexual health needs addressed at the nearest Planned Parenthood Clinic; the Watts/Willowbrook Health Center. Â Like with most Planned Parenthood Clinics around the country, this center offers comprehensive health care services for women and men, as well as contraceptive services and best practice STD testing, all at reasonable prices.
Even though there are numerous testing options available in the Los Angeles, and Lynwood, area, it is important to remember that the Los Angeles metropolitan area is notorious for snarled traffic. Getting from one area of the city to another can be an all-day challenge, particularly for people who are using public transportation. Â This is something to keep in mind when choosing a testing center.
Lynwood, California is a community that has numerous positives. At the same time, it is a town that faces myriad challenges that are largely shaped by its demographics. Currently, Lynwood is home to a vibrant Latinx community. Many of the town’s residents do not speak English, and a large number struggle with persistent poverty. The average household income in Lynwood, CA is less than one-half of the income seen in the rest of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Poverty, coupled with frequent language barriers, means that educating community members on sexual health has been challenging; and, it has frequently resulted in behaviors that have led to high rates of numerous sexually transmitted diseases, and particularly gonorrhea and chlamydia. Moving forward, community leaders and educators will need to work together to fight the current public health challenge of STDs, and allow the community to take advantage of all of Lynwood’s wonderful opportunities.
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.
