Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
San Diego County reported 981 cases of infection syphilis in 2016, a number that rose to 1,130 cases by 2017. Chlamydia cases rose in the county from 18,904 cases in 2016 to 20,801 cases in 2017, while gonorrhea rose from 4,992 in 2016 to 5,947 in 2017.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have seen rises in San Diego County since 2013, with some sexually transmitted diseases having seen a consistent rise since 2010 or earlier.
Health professionals in the county recommend the following to prevent STDs: have open discussions with all intimate partners, openly discuss all health and wellness concerns with your medical provider, use condoms or other barrier method protections, and get tested regularly.
Events are held for National HIV Testing Day on June 27th, World AIDS Day on December 1st, and STD Awareness Month in April. Events typically includes free STD testing services and educational opportunities.
In Oceanside there are multiple options for testing and education. On Pier View Way is located a Vista Community Clinic, another Vista Community Clinic location on North Horne Street, and a County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency on South Barnes Street.
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
Their mission is to provide the local LGBTQ community a safe space, while also advancing HIV/AIDS awareness. They also want their clients to have equality when it comes to healthcare and to be free from social stigma if they are HIV positive.
HHSA is a city and county managed STD clinic that is working to improve the health of residents so they can thrive in the community. This is only one of five different diversions, each one with its own specialty.
Here you can get checked for several sexually transmitted diseases. The technician is licensed and experienced.
Planned Parenthood - at the Isabella Health Center - follows the goals and mission of the worldwide organization. Their reputation dates back to 1916, and they have continued to grow and improve.
At the forefront of research and medical technology, they can offer the best when it comes to sexual health care and STD screenings.
At 8-2-8 Urgent Care their goal is to provide prompt, efficient and high quality medical care for your injury or illness. You don't need to be a returning patient or have an appointment to be seen by professional and caring physicians.
The first clinic opened in 1971. Sine then, they have expanded to 12 clinics in the surrounding area. As an urgent and family care health center, they have physicians with different specialties, along with the necessary support staff.
Part of the way they are helping residents be proactive about their health is by providing screenings for some of the most commonly transmitted sexual diseases.
VCC (Vista Community Clinic) is a community health center. They have departments that focus on each member of a family. The clinic is managed by experienced physicians. They also have a full support staff.
When you go in for testing a technician will be in the exam room with you. There is a lab here that will process your test in a couple of days.
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: General Public. Call to find out about eligibilty for free HIV testing. VCC 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.
Description: General Public. Teens Clinic for 12 to 19 years olds. Call to find out about eligibility for free HIV testing. During COVID-19 emergency patients are currently being seen by telephone visit only at this site. Please call or text (844) 308-5003 to make an appointment. If you need Medical Care please call. Call or visit website for updates.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Closed between 12noon-1pm
Description: Closed for lunch: 12noon-1pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Payment is by cash, check, debit or credit card. $40.00 fee covers testing, treatment, vaccinations, lab work, in-stock medications and any follow-up visit within 30 days of exam. The fee may be waived if you are unable to pay. The clinics do not accept insurance. Please call (760) 967-4401 for an appointment
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: Closed for lunch from 12:30pm-1:30pm
Description: Call to find out about for free HIV testing. During COVID-19 emergency patients are currently being seen by telephone visit ONLY at this site. Please call or text (844) 308-5003 to make an appointment. Call or visit website for updates.
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: 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: 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: 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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Due to COVID19, currently only seeing patients by appointment only
Description: Closed daily from 12noon-1pm
Any specific information on sexually transmitted diseases is based on the county. All headlines proclaim that rates are hitting new highs. Gonorrhea and Syphilis are the most commonly passed between partners, but other viruses are increasing almost as fast.
The one that is going down is HIV, and this is usually given credit to past aggressive campaigns that urged people to get a quick test.
These numbers are only representative of the percentage of people who have been tested. Health department officials believe that the actual count would rise if all people who are in the highest risk groups for STD infection would get tested.
Testing is free for HIV, even rapid tests. On Wednesday evenings you can walk on in, other days you will need to contact the center before you go in.
The North County LGBTQ Resource Center is the place that many men and women go when they want to learn their status or are already positive for the virus.
Along with providing free screenings, the center can also aid with treatment. Most of their services are also free, including case management.
3220 Mission Ave #2, Oceanside, CA 92058, USA
If you are only there for HIV testing, this service is free. Other tests do have an office visit charge. The fee is minimal and does cover all the other tests they provide.
This is the HIV/STD branch of HHSA. They are managed by the city so you can rest assured that you will receive quality care.
You don't need an appointment, it is best though. Some residents may also meet the standards for free testing.
3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92056, USA
On their website you can select when you want to come in. You can also do this by calling the clinic. Calling also gives you the chance to ask about fees, insurance and other details you might be curious about.
You know Planned Parenthood, at least by reputation. Their clinic on Via Centre upholds the standards of the organization.
Going in with an appointment means that you will be seen shortly after you arrive. You can expect to receive excellent and professional care, even if you are only there for a STD test.
1964 Via Centre, Vista, CA 92081, USA
Walk in - when you;re ready. The clinic is open 7 days a week. If you have insurance, including Medi-Cal your fees are covered. If not you will be expected to pay.
8-2-8 Urgent Care is a medical clinic that treats individuals and families for a variety of health concerns. You can come in anytime they are open - which is 7 days a week. If you are not insured, you will be expected to pay the fees for your visit. They have payment arrangements but not reduced rates.
4171 Oceanside Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92056, USA
If it's not an emergency, you might want to think about calling ahead. This way you can get a jump start on the patient forms and have a place in line reserved. You should expect to pay for your visit and minors do need to be at least 14 to come in without their parent's presence.
NCHS is a county health project that has proven to be a success. They provide several services for area residents, and have grown to include other locations.
Testing should be done by appointment. You should also expect to receive a bill for their services.
605 Crouch St, Oceanside, CA 92054, USA
Start by calling the health center. They'll want to know you're coming in, before you show up. This is also the time to find out if you qualify for free or reduced testing. Most residents do already qualify for free HIV tests.
AT VCC, HIV testing is free. There might be a charge if you need to get other tests. They do prefer appointments, unless it is an emergency. If that is the case, you will probably be sent on to the emergency room.
134 Grapevine Rd, Vista, CA 92083, USA
You already know that you are part of a larger community, which increases your chances for locating a public clinic that is not overwhelmed with business. There are over 20, so you won’t even have to drive very far. Some might even be within walking distance of the nearby beach. You can walk in the sand and relax on your way to a public STI clinic.
Vista Community Clinic wants you to choose your health and cover all residents regardless of their ability to pay. STI testing is often free, though you will need to prove that you live in the area. They do take care of all types of health concerns so be prepared for it to be busy. Appointments are necessary, though occasionally you might get lucky and be seen if you just walk in. They do have 2 centers which can cut down on wait times.
The San Diego County of Health and Human Services is open on Monday, Tuesday and Friday. You can also sneak in on Thursday morning for a few hours. Open times might be limited, but you can get tested, treated and find counseling. Due to the extremely limited hours, expect to stand around before seeing a professional.
North Country LGBTQ Resource Center on Mission Ave is a lifesaver for many. They can test for all STDs, and even provide vaccines for Hepatitis A. Services can be of no charge, and the staff is always friendly, compassionate and understanding. Another resource they provide is free HIV testing and counseling.
It’s true, HIV is no longer the top STD but don’t feel like you can sit back and relax. Gonorrhea may be more prevalent, but this can easily change if you decide that testing is no longer relevant.
The resource center on Mission happily accepts anyone as a client, the county’s health clinic also tests patients daily for HIV.
Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest Incorporated is a little outside of town, but you can get a reduced or state paid for HIV test. You will need to show proof of income, and plan ahead of time. If you just wander in, the cost could be greater. Vista Community Clinic on North River Road has rapid and conventional HIV testing. Just call ahead.
Some people don’t hesitate at enrolling as a patient. It occasionally makes it easier to deal with insurance. Though not in every case. If this doesn’t bother you North County Health Services is accepting new patients. Anyone wondering about fees, don’t worry. They are based on income and they are almost always willing to work with their clienteles.
Less than 20 miles away are Mountain Health and Neighborhood Healthcare. Conventional tests are at both, but only Mountain Health has the rapid blood test. Sometimes this is important, especially if you want early detection. Waiting a couple of weeks for results really could negatively affect your health.
You don’t have to drive 10 or more miles away just for a discreet HIV or STI test. Private labs are all around, and they are also surprisingly affordable.
It is mandatory. Sexual health must be taught, but is everyone following along? There aren’t enough people to oversee every district. Some schools also have a valid compliant that they can’t afford the new material. Since these are existing problems it is tough to tell how effective sex ed. really is,
until you look at the numbers.
Rates in youth are rising, and we are not just talking about viral Herpes. The cold sores are the least of teens problems. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are through the roof, even Syphilis is starting to make a comeback in some neighborhoods. What can be done about this while education policies are being ironed out? Take a class, read pamphlets or articles on the web.
There are sources and one is your local Planned Parenthood. Anything you want to know about your health, sexual or otherwise, can be learned here. If you don’t want to join one of their classes or talk to a counselor, feel free to take some of their brochures and condoms.
This is a small community so you might be at ease traveling a short distance. There are several clinics that sponsor free events. You can participate in discussions or sit quietly and listen. You’ll also find plenty of material you can take home and read in private.
Even though education needs to have a few wrinkles ironed out, it doesn’t mean that you can’t still learn everything you need to know.
Stroll down the beach. Gaze at the sun setting behind the palm trees. It’s a relaxing experience and glorious sight. When you’re done, there is a problem that still remains. Sexually transmitted diseases are still an issue that isn’t being resolved.
You can change this by getting tested. Public testing is available, but private might be more convenient. You’re not taking a chance by getting a test, you are making a difference by doing the “right thing”.
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.
