Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
One of the youngest cities in Orange County, Rancho Santa Margarita, California, has a population of nearly 50,000 people. The city is known for its Rancho Santa Margarita Lake Tower and is home to the Hughes Aircraft Company’s Microelectronic Systems Division. With a Mediterranean climate, people are drawn to the city and its beauty but public officials in Orange County are trying to thwart the significant increases in the number of reported sexually transmitted disease cases.
In Orange County, the most recent data shows a 412 percent increase in syphilis cases from 2011 to 2016, a 204 percent increase in gonorrhea, and a 59 percent increase in chlamydia.
In 2011, there were 7,926 cases of Chlamydia reported while there were 11,377 cases reported in 2015. The Rancho Santa Margarita area also the number of reported Gonorrhea cases go from only 972 cases reported in 2011 to 2,322 cases in 2015. The number of Syphilis cases also rose, with an increase to 458 cases in 2015 from only 108 cases in 2011.
The reasons for the increases can be attributed to a multitude of medical and social circumstances, including from a lack of adequate screening to decreased fear of curable sexually transmitted diseases.
There are several locations that offer STD testing in the Rancho Santa Margarita area, including private and public clinics and centers. Free STD testing may be available at several of the clinics but free may not always mean there will not be charges. In many cases, fees are charged if treatment is needed and there can be longer wait times to get an appointment for testing or treatment.
Rancho Santa Margarita Testing Center HIV tests along with screenings for gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, oral herpes, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and Hepatitis B and C. Other nearby testing centers at the Confidential Testing Center that offers STD screening services and the Medical Testing Center.
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 Saddleback Church HIV/AIDS Initiative was created as an intersection of the Church's ideals for helping others and the rising crisis of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Saddleback Church is determined to reduce the stigma of dealing with sexually transmitted diseases as part of regular church business. The Initiative was designed to have its message strengthened by using pieces of scripture such as Mark 1:40-42 and a heartfelt cry for compassion.
The Saddleback Church team is heavily involved in efforts involving outreach and are interested in spreading their methods and way of thinking to other Christian churches around America.
Camino Health Center was first created as the San Juan clinic more than 30 years ago to help the underinsured or uninsured individuals and families of South Orange County. Today they are a federally qualified health center that runs three clinics in the Lake Forest, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano areas to empower their patients and guide them towards a healthier and happier life.
STD testing and screening is provided as part of their general medical services department and is administered by driven professionals who are equipped with modern tools and diagnostic equipment.
The Laguna Beach Community Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to providing family centered medical care at an accessible level for low-income and uninsured individuals and families in the South Orange County area since 1970. Their core goals include protecting the health of the Orange County community residents and educating them about healthier life choices.
In addition to these services, the Laguna Beach Community Clinic offers free testing and screening for certain sexually transmitted diseases. The clinic employs a dedicated staff who are fully board-certified and strive to create a stress free environment.
Vista Community Clinics was started in 1972 in the basement of an animal shelter. By providing access to top quality health care for the underserved and poorer communities in the region, the organization quickly grew to the size it is today. Currently, Vista Community Clinics operates in the San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County areas. They serve more than 65,000 patients ever year across their many campuses. They are dedicated to constantly improving and growing their primary care deliver systems.
Their STD testing and screening department provides free HIV testing for most patients, and charges a small fee for other sexually transmitted diseases.
Radiant Health Centers has been operating for more than 30 years providing the highest level of care and support for individuals afflicted with HIV/AIDS as well as their families. They offer a full list of social services and a quickly growing number of medical services. Some forms of help they provide include: mental health counselling, nutritional support, and housing programs. They are heavily involved in educational outreach services as well as kids programs and support groups for families of victims.
Their attentive and professional staff offer STD testing and screening for several diseases. HIV testing is free for the general public.
Planned Parenthood is an organization that finds itself in many countries around the world trying to spread the idea of accessible reproductive health care for people of all backgrounds. They embody an acceptance of all individuals and families, regardless of culture, race, gender, or financial standing. Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino County can offer its patients a variety of plans and options to help lower the financial barrier for medical care.
Physicians and nurses at Planned Parenthood are always busy making sure patients receive top quality care and enjoy the utmost confidentiality.
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: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Most services available on a walk-in basis, but walk-in hours subject to change
Description: Friday closed from 12noon-2pm. Only open the 2nd, 4th and 5th Saturday of each month
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Closed from 12noon-1pm. Teen hours: Friday 1pm-5pm
Description: Sav-On Pharmacy.
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. 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: Limited Saturday appts. Mpox vaccines available Mon.-Fri. by appt. only
Description: Service center open Mon- Fri 8:30am-5pm
Description: Offers PrEP navigation services. Telemedicine visits are also available during those times, as well as other days on a case by case basis
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Most services are available on a walk-in basis, but walk-in hours are subject to change
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Most services are available on a walk-in basis, but walk-in hours subject to change
HIV testing is provided for free to the general public.
While it is definitely not the most congruous image, the Saddleback Church in western Anaheim is a proponent of sexual health awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS. They run a clinic that provides testing for HIV for the general public.
Patients looking to be tested are asked to book a free appointment during the week.
1 Saddleback Pkwy, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA
Patients with lower household income may qualify for a sliding fee scale. Patients are asked to bring government ID and insurance details.
The Camino Health Center is a local health services clinic that provides a fairly comprehensive list of medical care options. Everything from primary care to health education is handled by the specialists and nurse practitioners employed by Camino Health Center.
STD testing and screening is handled efficiently by the physicians there and will have results sent back to the patient as quickly as 30 minutes after the test.
30300 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, USA
Patients are asked to bring photo ID and insurance details. Some patients may qualify for a sliding fee scale if they bring their proof of income.
Visiting the Laguna Beach Community Clinic will allow individuals and families who are generally prohibited by exorbitant medical bills a chance at accessing medical services at a manageable rate. The Clinic offers a variety of services designed for patients who are uninsured or unable to pay high fees.
STD screening and testing can occasionally be offered on a sliding fee scale if patients bring proof of income.
362 3rd St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
Most patients will be eligible for free HIV testing. Bring photo ID and insurance information.
The Lake Elsinore Health Center is run by Vista Community Clinics and provides a wide spectrum of health care services for the underserved and in-need population in the area.
HIV testing is provided for free for eligible patients. Individuals can choose to call ahead to confirm their eligibility for free testing. Patients can also be tested for other STDs for a nominal fee.
30195 Fraser Dr, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530, USA
HIV testing is provided for free for county residents.
Radiant Health Centers is a clinic that is focused on providing the best health care possible for their patients who are generally underserved and restricted from traditional health care options. No patient will be turned away for inability to pay at a Radiant Health Center.
Testing for HIV is free for the general population and results are available within 20 minutes. Radiant Health Centers also offers family planning services.
17982 Sky Park Cir Ste J, Irvine, CA 92614, USA
Uninsured patients may qualify for a state-funded program. Patients with lower household income may be eligible for a sliding fee scale.
Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino County runs a chapter of their organization out of the Mission Viejo Health Center. The center provides a litany of social and medical services to the community. Everything from counselling to treatment of sexually transmitted diseases by the team of professional and respectful physicians.
Patients who walk-in may have a long wait time. It is advised to make an appointment beforehand.
26137 La Paz Rd #200, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, USA
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.
