Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Roughly 8 miles off the central California pacific coast, just east of Monterey Bay, sits the largest city and seat of Monterey County—Salinas. With rates of sexually transmitted diseases on the rise all over the state of California, it’s not shocking to find the same trend to be true in the Salinas area.
In fact, according to a 2018 Report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), rates for gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia have gone up for the fourth year in a row. According to Dr. Gail Bolan on behalf of the Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention Division of the CDC, “After decades of decline in STDs, in recent years we have been sliding backwards.” Â
You can paint the same picture in Monterey and Santa Cruz County as well. Monterey saw an approximate 20-40% increase in all STD/Is from 2016 to 2017, and in Santa Cruz there was a 46% increase in chlamydia between 2010 and 2017. Perhaps more concerning, in that same time frame members of the LGBTQ+ community in the region saw a nearly 500% increase in syphilis and gonorrhea. Medical professionals don’t know what is behind the hike, but possibilities include more people being tested than ever, the hookup culture brought on by dating apps, and increased infection influenced by the opioid epidemic.Â
In Salinas, there are a number of options for testing. Two of them are: Planned Parenthood on Main Street, or the John Xxiii Aids Ministry on Baldwin. Many locations offer free STD testing under specific conditions (for eligible patients). The typical wait time for test results is 1-2 days, but sometimes it takes longer. There is also a Quest Diagnostic on the north side of town off of Natividad Rd and another on the opposite side, just south of East Romie Lane.
To find the best services and location for you, use our search tools below to compare location features across Salinas 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
It is almost impossible to at least not be familiar with the name Planned Parenthood. They are leaders in research concerning sexual health care. Some may think they only perform one service but nothing is further from the truth.
You can easily get tested for sexually transmitted infections here. You also have the advantage of having a counselor to talk to when results are in.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Circle Medical Clinic) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Sanborn Medical Clinic) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Main Clinic) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
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. Fees for services are based on your household income. 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: AIDS Service Organization. Due to COVID-19 in-office appointments and visits are being limited in an effort to support the health and well-being of our clients and staff. Call 831-975-5015 to determine current operating status.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Walk-ins welcome during hours of operation
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: 2nd Tuesday of every month hours are from 9am-4:30pm
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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available upon request. Walk-ins welcome during hours of operation
Description: Social Service Organization.
If you call ahead you might be able to get in that day. You can also go online and look through their availability calendar and find a time that is best for you.
Anyone over 14 can get an appointment. without bringing their parents. Calling ahead can also get you enrolled in a plan that will help cover testing expenses.
You can everything from Pep and PrEP at Planned Parenthood. Free condoms are also available for men and women. After all these years, the organization is still at the forefront when it comes to protecting your sexual health.
316 N Main St, Salinas, CA 93901, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
559 E Alisal St #201, Salinas, CA 93905, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Circle Medical Clinic) might be an urgent care clinic but they also handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
950 Circle Dr, Salinas, CA 93905, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
219 N Sanborn Rd, Salinas, CA 93905, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
2180 N Main St, Salinas, CA 93906, USA
Sexually transmitted disease rates are up across the nation and this includes in the state, and the city of Salinas. Law makers are hoping that requiring schools to teach teens about the dangers of engaging in unprotected sex, along with all of the various ways STDs are spread will finally begin to lower the rate of infection.
It has long been known that high schools typically have a problem with Herpes and the best way to prevent the virus from spreading is to ensure teens and parents know how to protect themselves. Since it can be spread through casual contact, regular Herpes testing in Salinas can prevent it from becoming a problem in area high schools.
Ensuring that teens and their parents are also aware of the potential dangers of HIV and how it is spread is also a required part of the mandates concerning sexual education classes, and health officials are hopeful this will help slow down the increasing number of residents who are testing positive for the potentially deadly disease. Regular HIV testing in Salinas is quick and painless, and it is an important part of taking care of your sexual health.
While the area may be mainly agricultural STDs are still on the rise, and there are several demographical factors contributing to the problem.
Many families are still recovering from the formerly stagnant economy, and find it difficult to afford regular testing. This can be especially true for residents that depend on small family farms for their income. Even though they may live outside of the city, their children are still exposed to the potential risks common in schools.
The area also has a large migrant population that makes it difficult for health officials to stress the importance of regular testing, and language barriers are also a common problem. Many Hispanics also have a deep mistrust of government officials, and will not discuss any potential health risks with outsiders.
Salinas and the surrounding area sees thousands of tourists each year and many of these visitors are also infected with a sexually transmitted disease, and often pass it on to full time residents.
Some of the other factors that are causing the STD rates to climb include cultural and religious beliefs that make it difficult for teens and young adults to discuss any problems or get testing. Misconceptions and stereotypes have lead some residents to believe that they are never at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or made them too ashamed and embarrassed to be seen at a community health center. There is also a shortage of clinics in the area, which makes it easy to keep putting the checkup off due to an unwillingness to spend all day standing in line.
Before touring the John Steinbeck Museum or exploring the beautiful countryside it is important to stop and remember to take care of your sexual health. There are a few community clinics located in the vicinity, but the majority of residents prefer to skip the long lines and have their test done quickly and in private. You can easily schedule confidential STD testing simply by making one simple phone call, and instead of waiting all day you can spend 20 minutes or so at a nearby lab. It only takes a few minutes to take care of your health, and you will still have the whole day to enjoy Salinas.
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.
