Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Located on the San Francisco Bay, San Mateo would be expected to have high STD rates. In fact, San Mateo County has a 2017 prevalence rate of 229 per 100K people. These rates are close to those of Orange County, but much lower than those of either Los Angeles or San Francisco County.
Health officials are concerned that there are surely more people out there who do not yet know that they are infected, and they urge all sexually active people to get tested.
In 2017, San Mateo County had 2,872 chlamydia cases, at a rate of 371.6 per 100K people, and this is much lower than California’s rate of 552.2. The gonorrhea and (primary and secondary) syphilis rates were 105.7 and 8.
If California is known for high STD rates, it should also be given credit for its efforts to fight STDs, such as sex education in schools and billboards that urge people to get tested. Many California organizations even offer free STD testing during campaigns.
There are some STD-testing clinics in San Mateo, and even more in the surrounding areas. Planned Parenthood, located on Baywood Ave, tests for STIs and treats all of them except HIV. The fee is on a sliding scale based on your income. The San Mateo Medical Center provides comprehensive STI testing. They also have an HIV-testing van for testing-on-demand services.
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
AHF Healthcare Center - San Francisco was founded in 1987 to provide advanced health services to PLWHA across the United States and globally. The facility has a team of infectious disease specialists who are trained to treat HIV infections and provide HIV testing and counseling services.
RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics of Union City strives to provide holistic, comprehensive, and compassionate health care services to San Mateo, CA, communities, and its environs. The clinic has experienced medical personnel who offer reproductive health care services, including STD/HIV screening and treatment, pregnancy testing, abortion pill reversal, pregnancy termination, and health education.
Planned Parenthood - San Mateo Health Center is a convenient and trusted resource center for men, women, and teenagers seeking reproductive health care services. It has qualified physicians and nurse practitioners who provide health care services, including family planning, STD/HIV screening and treatment, pregnancy testing, women’s health, LGBTQ care, and abortion referrals.
South San Francisco Clinic is a fully accredited public health facility that serves the healthcare needs of county residents of San Mateo County, with an emphasis on prevention and education.
The health department has an STD/HIV Program that works to prevent STD/HIV infections and offer care for PLWHA and families affected by HIV in the county. The program delivers STD/HIV related health care, comprehensive, social services, community-based prevention, and testing services.
AfterOurs Urgent Care provides immediate care to persons faced with medical emergencies that do not need a visit to a hospital emergency room. The clinic also has certified health practitioners who treat minor injuries and non-life threatening illnesses, including STDs, sprains, fractures, coughs, headaches, and asthma. Individuals can also access pregnancy testing and sports medicine services at the facility.
Sutter Urgent Care - San Mateo provides quality medical care services to both adults and children in San Mateo, CA. The clinic's certified doctors and nurses work together to ensure clients receive quick, low cost, and convenient medication. Patients can access STD/HIV screening, women's health, pregnancy testing, and family planning services.
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: Hospital. Service is only for individuals 25 and younger. Virtual visits or in-person visits available. Service is only for individuals 25 and younger. Closed 12noon-1:30pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. General Public. $25 Fee for basic testing. Testing for syphilis, hepatitis C, and/or herpes will require an additional fee. Please see website for more information and frequently asked questions. Contact for mpox vaccine supply and eligibility
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Must be 12-21 years old. Free condoms available. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Safeway 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. 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: Need to register as a patient to receive services. If you do not have insurance, financial assistance is offered.
Description: Twice a month, Thursday hours 8am-8pm. Call for schedule
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: Community Based Organization. Hepatitis B screening and vaccination: Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon and 1:30pm-3:30pm
Description: Must first enroll to receive services. Closed from 12noon-1pm daily
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Closed Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., from 12noon-1pm. Wed., closed from 12noon-2pm
Description: Hospital.
Home to many of the “tech geniuses” in Silicon Valley it is still not enough to protect residents from sexually transmitted diseases. The best high tech devices are not capable of stopping these viruses from infecting residents whether they are sexually active or not. Only with education and regular testing will residents in the city be able to protect themselves from STDs.
According to the San Mateo County health department not enough residents are taking the threat of sexually transmitted diseases seriously. Many still labor under the misconception that if they are only sexually active with one person their chances of contracting a STD are extremely rare.
African American and Hispanics are among those most affected by rising STD rates, though more Caucasian men are testing positive for primary, secondary and early latent Syphilis more often since 2011. Some of the other statistics that highlight the growing health problem in the area include,
Members of the public are welcome for HIV services, and no patient is denied medical care. No insurance is required since the testing services are free; therefore, uninsured patients may receive the services.
AHF Healthcare Center - San Francisco connects PLWHA to specialists, medication, and resources they need to lead healthy lives. The facility uses advanced test procedures to ensure patients receive fast and accurate HIV/STD tests. It also has a pharmacy that is fully-staffed with trained pharmacists who customize the delivery of patients' medications to meet their needs.
518a Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA
Individuals seeking STD/HIV services may visit the clinic for low-cost services regardless of their insurance status, and patients are required not to engage in sexual intercourse or urinate for one hour before testing.
Patients visiting RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics of Union City are served by compassionate and knowledgeable medical staff who take time to listen to patients' needs. It also offers personalized reproductive health care and education services to women through the good woman program. Moreover, aftercare services are available to women healing from abortion procedures.
33523 Western Ave, Union City, CA 94587, USA
The clinic serves members of the public with STD/HIV services regardless of their ability to pay. It also provides a sliding fee scale to uninsured persons and accepts multiple methods of payments such as insurance plans, Medicare, cash, checks, credit cards, and Medicaid.
Planned Parenthood - San Mateo Health Center has welcoming waiting rooms where patients can spend time with their loved ones in a social and friendly common area. The hospital's physicians use interactive digital tools to enable individuals to proactively make decisions regarding birth control and STD/HIV testing. Patients can also receive vital educational resources and learn about their reproductive health via the clinic's website.
29 Baywood Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA
The facility welcomes individuals seeking STD/HIV services. Only checks, cash, and credit cards (Mastercard and Visa only) are accepted, and the clinic offers a sliding fee scale to self-pay patients.
South San Francisco Clinic offers individuals from low-income communities with referrals to community agencies providing dental care, drug treatment, housing, food, and other services. Patients may also access free condoms and lubes at the health center, and it also conducts outreach events to provide sexual education to community members.
306 Spruce Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
The clinic is open to all individuals seeking STD/HIV testing and treatment. It also accepts health insurance plans from insured persons and cash for self-pay individuals.
AfterOurs Urgent Care has a paperless patient check-in model that helps to reduce patients' waiting times. It also has a HIPAA compliant and a user-friendly patient portal that enables individuals to access their health records and education resources conveniently. The clinic also has spacious and comfortable waiting and examination rooms.
1098 Foster City Blvd Suite 104, Foster City, CA 94404, USA
There are no eligibility requirements to access STD/HIV services at the clinic. The facility treats both insured and self-pay persons and accepts most health insurance plans as well as cash for self-pay individuals.
Sutter Urgent Care - San Mateo has an EHR system that lets physicians order medication for their patients effortlessly. The system also makes it easier for doctors to e-prescribe and locate the nearest pharmacy for clients in remote areas. It also has onsite labs, which enables the clinic's health practitioners to conduct tests and provide clients with an efficient diagnosis.
100 S San Mateo Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
The 2015-2016 school year saw the start of the new sex education program that now includes information that is relevant to modern teens. Along with the previously required classes that dealt with the spread and prevention of HIV/AIDS the new program also includes information on the other STDs.
Already some public school officials are reporting a decrease in the number of students who are pregnant, and this is mainly being attributed to the increased awareness about the proper use of contraceptives. Health officials are also hopeful that this, along with regular testing will help prevent the spread of these diseases among teens and young adults.
The most important information now being taught is the importance of regular HIV testing in San Mateo. Not only is this the only way to detect the disease, it is also the first step in treating its potentially deadly side effects. Regular Herpes testing in San Mateo is also taught.
Since the city is considered a part of Silicon Valley economics rarely factor into the area’s high STD rate. This is not to say that there aren’t some residents who are finding it difficult to afford health care and regular testing, but the majority are financially stable.
With the start of the new education classes in the public school system, health officials are hopeful that this attitude will begin to change soon. Not only is it important for your health to get tested at least a couple times a year, but also for those around you. Since not all STDs display immediate signs and symptoms it is easy to infect others without even realizing it.
There are a large number of visitors to the area, and while they may be primarily spending time at the tech centers this doesn’t mean that they don’t come into contact with residents. Since some STDs can be easily spread without sexual activity this is putting residents health at risk. Many of these visitors are not aware of the dangers of STDs and have never been tested. If they do not know if they have a sexually transmitted disease, it is also impossible for you to know.
Before trying out the latest gadget from Silicon Valley or heading over to San Francisco Bay it is important to stop and get tested for STDs before starting your busy day. If the long lines at the clinics are the reason you have been putting off this important checkup, there is now a faster and easier way for you to be tested. With one phone call you can schedule confidential STD testing and only spend a few minutes at a nearby lab. This way you can take care of your sexual health and still have plenty of time to enjoy everything this city has to offer.
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.
