Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Known for its scenery that includes the nearby hills and lake the city of San Marcos, California is also becoming famous for its number of Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, C, Herpes, Syphilis and HIV cases reported each year, along with the fact that there are only a few STD clinics in the area. Due to the long lines at the San Marcos, CA free STD testing centers many residents are choosing to put off this important checkup, even though they know that the number of incidents reported is rising each year. Now you can easily schedule private STD testing with one simple phone call and only spend 15 to 20 minutes at a nearby lab. This way you can take care of your sexual health, and still have plenty of time for fishing on the lake.
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 North County LGBTQ Resource Center is a space place for members of the LGBTQ community to go to be accepted, valued, and away from judgment. In November 2011, this resource center was established into the community in Oceanside after passion and hard work drove the founders and community members to educate and to support LGBTQ members. At this clinic, you will find HIV/AIDS testing, support groups, counseling, education classes, workgroups, and much more.
Mountain Health has been providing primary health care services since 1975. Besides their clinic location in Escondido, this non-profit community health organization has clinics in Campo, Alpine, and San Diego. Some of the services their clinics provide to the public include primary care, behavioral development assessments, asthma and allergy care, nutrition counseling, x-ray services, referrals for specialty care, and much more.
The Fallbrook Family Health Center is owned and operated a part of Community Health Systems. Community Health Systems is a nonprofit. They offer services to people living in Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego. The Fallbrook Family Health Center offers medical, dental, behavioral health, and optometry to people of various ages.
If you have any questions about their services, you can talk to Cheryl Whitten who is their site manager. The rest of their staff includes two on-site psychiatrists, two licensed clinical social workers, one psychiatric nurse practitioner, an optician, an optometrist, two dentists, a physician assistant, three nurse practitioners, an OB/GYN, a pediatrician, and a family practice physician.
The Carlsbad Family Medicine Center is operated as a part of the North County Health Services. NCHS is a California health-focused group of centers that began in 1971. This operation started because physicians within the Ramona, Pauma Valley, and San Marcos area were unwilling to help low-income patients so as a result, a group of health professionals worked together to create the North County Health Services organization. With this said, Carlsbad Family Medicine is not a free clinic but does do a good job at helping those who do not have insurance or have a low-income.
The Escondido Center is owned and operated apart of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, Inc. Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest has been providing quality exams and testing since 1963. This regional Planned Parenthood offers medical services to San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial counties. PPPSW cares for residents living in these counties by offering medical care throughout 18 health centers, including the Escondido Center.
The Public Health Services a part of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services is a source of services that aims to protect the health and well-being of all those residing in San Diego County. PHS works together to stop the spread of disease, protect the environment, prevent injuries among all ages, and provide information about how to include more healthy choices into your daily routine. One of the key ways they stop of certain diseases, like STDs, is to provide on-site health care services to anyone who may need them.
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: 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
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Closed daily from 12noon-1pm
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. 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: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., closed from 12noon-1pm
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: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., closed from 12noon-1pm; Wed., closed from 12noon-1:30pm
Description: Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
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: 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: 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: Closed for lunch from 12:30pm-1:30pm
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
Description: Closed for lunch: 12noon-1pm
Description: Closed Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 12noon-1pm; and Wed., 12noon-1:30pm
According to the recent statistics released by the CDC and San Diego County Department of Health, this small city is seeing a surge in its STD rates. Over the past twenty years the number of sexually transmitted infections reported in the county has been rising at a rate that alarms many health officials.
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis rates are all rising, along with the number of new HIV cases reported each year. Statistics also show that it is no longer just teens and young adults that are at risk, but older residents are testing positive for a sexually transmitted disease more often. This is especially true concerning HIV/AIDS and Syphilis rates among residents over the age of 24.
Rates for Chlamydia and Syphilis are currently above state averages, with the sharpest increases occurring from 2013 to 2015. Syphilis incidents in men saw the largest increase, along with the number of males who tested positive for Gonorrhea. While Gonorrhea rates in men are still below state averages, health experts expect this to change in the next two to three years.
Statistics also indicate that African American and Hispanic residents are more than twice as likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease, especially Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. When it comes to Syphilis all residents are at risk, especially males ages 25 to 44. Some of the other statistics that highlight the growing STD epidemic include,
You must be a member of the LGBTQ community in order to receive HIV/AIDS testing at this facility.
The North County LGBTQ Resource Center incorporates services, programs, and events that help community members feel cared for and supported through whatever life journey they're embarking on right now. Through local events such as the AIDS Walk, they are helping community members come together to raise awareness of the center’s resources and AIDS. Together they are making a difference so people can start healing and get on the road to recovery.
3220 Mission Ave #2, Oceanside, CA 92058, USA
The Escondido Family Medicine clinic offers sexually transmitted disease testing to the public without any qualifications to meet. At this clinic, insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare are accepted. If for some reason you can’t pay, you may qualify for a lower fee using their sliding scale. Some results will be ready the same day or if not, it may take 5-7 business days.
Mountain Health and Community Services is a federally qualified health center that employees compassionate and empathic medical doctors and nurses. Mountain Health provides programs and activities at their community center for all ages like a food pantry, senior nutrition assistance, Children’s Summer Day Camp, bingo, and much more. The Escondido Family Medicine Center is across the street from the Hernandez Tax Service and Interfaith Community Services’ Hawthorne Veteran and Family Resource Center.
255 N Ash St #101, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
Before you can participate in their on-site sexually transmitted disease testing, you have to enroll as a patient. Other than this qualification there are no other qualifications to meet. Please bring any medical insurance that you have with you at the time of your visit.
The Fallbrook Family Health Center provides quality care services for the entire family. Their safe and comfortable environment helps patients feel at ease during their entire visit. Besides STD and HIV/AIDS testing, teens and adults can get on-site counseling and education at this clinic. Medical insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare are accepted at this clinic.
1328 W Mission Rd, Escondido, CA 92029, USA
The Carlsbad Family Medicine center doesn’t have any limitations to the people they ee so don’t worry about any qualifications you need to meet before you can be tested for sexually transmitted diseases. Please bring a photo I.D. and any health insurance information with you to your first visit.
The Carlsbad Family Medicine Center is a place for residents to visit if they need quick care and treatment that is affordable. At this clinic, everyone is welcome. This clinic is located next to Carlsbad Physical Therapy. Visitors will find their staff takes the time to listen to their patients with no rushing them out the door.
1295 Carlsbad Village Dr #100, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
The Escondido Center offers high quality sexually transmitted disease testing open to anyone. Please call to make an appointment as it is required. Most test results are ready in 5-7 business days. If you’re seeking other STD testing, diagnosis, and treatment options please ask their staff for more information.
The Escondido Center is a safe, caring, and clean place for women, men, and teenagers to visit if they have any questions or concerns about their personal sexual health. At this facility, you can get the HPV vaccine and the Hepatitis B vaccine. PrEP services are available at this clinic for those worried about their risk of getting HIV/AIDS. The Escondido Center has informative and friendly customer service assistants. This facility is located within a strip mall area with other nearby businesses. Parking may be limited at this clinic location.
347 W Mission Ave, Escondido, CA 92025, USA
The sexually transmitted disease testing apart of Public Health Services is open to the public. It is $15.00 for an STD and HIV tests but this fee can be waived if you’re unable to pay. If you just want HIV testing, there is no fee associated with this test.
Public Health Services a part of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services provides an ample amount of resources and services for those living with sexually transmitted diseases. By providing on-site education, prevention activities, and partner notification services they are helping further prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Visitors of this clinic will notice their staff are kind and thoughtful.
3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd #104, Oceanside, CA 92056, USA
In response to the rising STD and teen pregnancy rates the state passed a bill that requires all public school districts to provide medically accurate and comprehensive information in their sex education programs. While parents can “opt” their child out of these classes, health officials are hopeful that the majority of students will participate in the new program.
Abstinence will still be briefly covered and students will be taught that it is better to wait to engage in sexual activity until they are older, but they will also learn about the risks and responsibilities that come with being sexually active. This includes learning about all of the ways that STDs can be spread, along with the importance of being tested for the infectious diseases on a regular basis.
Students will also learn about the importance of always using protection if they do decide to become sexually active. Condoms and other types of contraceptives will be discussed, and local officials are hopeful that this will help to lower the abnormally high teen pregnancy rate. Since students will learn that not all STDs are spread through sexual activity, local and county leaders hope that more residents will understand how important regular HIV testing in San Marcos is for their continued good health.
Regular Herpes testing in San Marcos will also be encouraged, and this simple procedure could help stop the spread of the virus through area high schools. While it is too soon to tell if the new sex education programs are having a positive effect on the STD rates in the area, the number of teen pregnancies reported in the first half of 2016 has started to decrease.
There are several factors being blamed for the rising STD rates in the city and county, though many of these are being addressed. The addition of comprehensive and medically accurate sex education programs is one positive step, along with the fact that the county does offer free STD testing for lower income residents. This was started in response to the rising infection rates, along with the fact that testing is no longer covered under Medicaid.
Even though this is a start towards addressing the various reasons why STD rates are rising, it doesn’t resolve all of the problems. Language barriers are making it difficult for health officials to reach everyone in the community, and this means that a large percentage of residents still do not understand the importance of regular testing.
Thanks to advances in health care adults are staying sexually active longer, and many of the area’s older residents are not familiar with the risks that are often associated with their behavior. Some also mistakenly believe that an STD could never happen to them. Until these and other factors are resolved the STD rates for the city are expected to continue to rise.
Before you head off for a day of fishing and boating on Lake San Marcos, it is important to take a few minutes to think about your sexual health. The number of STDs reported each year is rising, and it has never been so important for everyone to be tested on a regular basis. It is understandable if you want to avoid the long lines at the STI clinics, and now you can. Simply by making one quick phone call you can schedule confidential STD testing and only spend a few minutes at a local lab. This way you can take care of your sexual health, and still have plenty of time to enjoy your day.
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.
