Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Santa Clara health officials are worried about the rising STD rates, especially gonorrhea and syphilis. Most of those affected are men.
“Hook-up apps” are partly to blame, as are budget cuts in the public health sector, which have resulted in the closure of many clinics. Also, drug use contributes to many STDs—both from use of contaminated needles and exchanging sex for drugs.
In 2015, there were 2,948 people living with HIV or AIDS in Santa Clara County, with a prevalence rate of 185 per 100K people, half of California’s rate of 376. In 2017, Santa Clara County had 7,669 chlamydia cases, at a rate of 394.2, also below California’s rate of 552.2.
The gonorrhea and (primary and secondary) syphilis rates were 126.6 and 11.
Santa Clara has some STD-testing clinics, and there are even more options in the surrounding areas, especially San Jose (you might be able to find free STD testing there as well). There’s a Planned Parenthood in San Jose. They test for STIs and treat all except HIV, and the fee is on a sliding scale.
The Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley at O’Connor Hospital provides STI testing and treatment on a sliding scale to those who qualify for the 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
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department (The Crane Center) 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 Billy DeFrank LGBT Community Center of Silicon Valley 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.
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.
The Santa Clara Public Health Department (North County Regional Office) 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 Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley (Family Health Center at OConnor Hospital) 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 Gardner Health Services (Saint James Health Center) 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: Must register as a patient to receive services. TB Testing not offered in Thursdays
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Please visit website for drop-in testing schedule
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: Need to enroll as a patient.
Description: Must register as a patient to receive services. Saturday hours available by appointment only
Description: Must enroll as a patient. Closed for lunch 11:30am To 1pm
Description: The clinic is closed from 12noon-1pm every day. Open 4th Tues. of the month at 1pm-5pm
Description: Must first enroll to recieve services. Sat., closed from 12noon-1pm
Description: Must enroll as a patient in order to receive services.
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Clinics providing testing services for STDs are available and they provide confidential and anonymous screening. For residents who are low income, specially funded clinics can provide testing with reduced or zero fees if the client meets the income guidelines. Order your test because its easy. Visit a lab offering testing services and you will have completed the process with you results on their way.
There is a great contribution from health departments, std testing centers, private doctors and hospitals to gather and send data to the Center for Disease Control for detailed analysis. All client information is private and the only information that is sent centers around demographics and not personal information.
There is no need to fear a breach of privacy because all health care providers are governed by laws and rules that are designed to protect the rights of every client who enters the doors.
The figures shown below are the statistics which have been gathered about sexually transmitted diseases in the city and outlying areas. They are represented in terms of rates per 100,000 people.
Syphilis in comparison to the rates of other cities is higher than national averages. This information is possible because of the reports that are painstakingly generated after all of the data is tallied and categorized. Gonorrhea as well as Chlamydia cases are also expressed as elevated from the national average. Health dept. staff believe that these figures are only a small portion of what they would see if all at risk persons were to get tested.
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.
Santa Clara County Public Health Department (The Crane Center) 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.
976 Lenzen Ave, San Jose, CA 95126, 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.
938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126, USA
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.
1691 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126, 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.
Santa Clara Public Health Department (North County Regional Office) 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.
660 S Fair Oaks Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, 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.
Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley (Family Health Center at OConnor Hospital) 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.
455 O＇Connor Dr #200, San Jose, CA 95128, 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.
55 E Julian St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
Trends show that more individuals between age 15 and 19 are getting STDs, particularly, Chlamydia which has predominance to a large degree over the others. This created a sense of urgency among public health officials to take action that will help in curbing these upward trends.
Mandatory sexual health education in public schools is one of the strategies Aathat is being employed.
It is provided to students just prior to when many begin experimenting with their sexuality. Students who complete sex ed classes will know where to go for HIV or Herpes testing.
Analysis of current informational reports generated by CDC experts show that those who are living at or below poverty levels hae a tendency to land in a high risk category. It is believed that reasons for this are a lack of sexual health education and limited financial resources to obtain quality medical care. Many do not know that testing services are available at little or no cost upon qualification.
Some may be infected but do not have any symptoms. Not all sexually transmitted diseases produce symptoms in beginning stages so the only way to know if you are infected is through testing. These conditions are optimal for increasing the spread at rapid rates.
Women test positive for Chlamydia twice as often as men do. 20 to 24 is the age group most at risk according to recent figures. African Americans have greater frequency of positives with Native Americans and Alaskan Indians, then Hispanics following in order for this particular region.
Syphilis cases are also rising in frequency with male homosexual behaviors resulting in more positives. There is also a pattern that shows these men are increasingly being given dual or multiple diagnoses with Chlamydia and other infections simultaneously. Gonorrhea and Syphilis is higher in men than in women in this area. With respect to age, men who are between 20 and 24 have the greatest frequency with those 40 to 44 next. Blacks have the most positives, then Hispanics and Whites.
Health professionals understand that more needs to be done to educate people so they will understand the causes of and preventions for sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, knowledge of available resources for getting an STD test and following up for treatment is needed.
While it is true that clinics offering free or lower cost rates for STD testing are available, each of them is dependent upon funding that might become depleted before all clients are served. What this means is that some might be in dire need of this type of service, but it is possible they might be forced to wait until additional resources become available.
STDs can cause big problems with your reproductive system as well as to your general health. Stillborns, birth defects and problems conceiving and carrying babies is common. Any time you have unprotected sex and you are unsure of your partner’s fidelity you are at risk. What should you do? The best solution is to make sure that your sexual health is not in peril. You should get tested as soon as possible. The facts are that you can be tested with privacy and confidentiality. The tests are administered by professional staff who will treat you with respect.
When you’ve done this, all that is left is to take a few moments of your time to visit lab that provides testing services. The staff will assist you and have you on your way in record time. The first time can be a bit intimidating but once you’re done, you’ll see how easy and fast that it really can be.
Reference:
http://www.cdc.gov/std/stats14/tables/6.htm
http://www.cdc.gov/std/stats14/
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.
