Preferred Location: 111 N Wabash Ave Chicago,IL 60602 Chicago Loop Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 111 N Wabash Ave Chicago,IL 60602 Chicago Loop Change Location
When the state of Illinois reports its health information, it reports Chicago and then the rest of the state minus the city.
The “Windy City” has a higher Chlamydia rate than the rest of the state as of 2016, with a rate of 1,104.6 cases per 100,000 people. Chicago also rates higher for Gonorrhea, with 402 cases per 100,000 people in the city as opposed to 165.2 cases per 100,000 people in the rest of Illinois, not counting Chicago.
The city also ranks higher in Syphilis than some nearby communities.
Testing options are available throughout the city. Public options include 7 Planned Parenthood locations on North Broadway, Ashland Avenue, Milwaukee Avenue, Halsted Street, Michigan Avenue, Chicago Avenue, and LaSalle Drive.
There are many private options as well, including an HIV testing center on Armitage Avenue and other testing centers on Randolph Street, Wabash Avenue, and more. You won’t have a problem finding one of these centers. Best of all, you can make an appointment and avoid a long stay.ย You can also ask about free STD testing but you may have to show i.d.ย
Most clinics do offer free parking but you might want to check ahead. Public bus routes are also available and could be a viable option.ย
With so many options, you can stop worrying about your health and actually go get tested.ย
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 CDC2ย 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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
SaferSTD has researched and identified reputable locations that offer upfront pricing without hidden fees. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Concentrated mainly on HIV, this clinic has both counselors and physicians on staff. They also have a mobile testing unit, though with this there is no guarantee that you will be able to speak to a doctor.
Test results generally take a few days but in the meantime you can take advantage of their educational programs. You can also get information on ways you can volunteer to spread the message about HIV throughout your community.
Formally known as Horizons Community Services, this center has been serving the LGBTQ community since 1973.
While they do have plenty of outreach programs, they are not fortunate enough to have a lab on sight. This means that you might have to wait several days before you know your test results.
If you want to speak to a doctor, you might have to wait. However, the staff can help assist you with any concerns you might have. You will also be provided with a list of local and national numbers that can provide additional support and counseling.
With several locations throughout the city, H B Health is dedicated to ensuring all city residents have access to testing and treatment.
A physician is on staff during open hours and available to discuss results with you, in person. It can be difficult to speak to a doctor on phone due to the large client volume, but a staff member should be able to answer your questions.
Typically, results are available in a week. However, if you chose rapid HIV testing they will be ready sooner.
It is a friendly, non-biased clinic. The staff strives to put their clients at ease. Thanks to various funding, the clinic boasts state-of-the-art equipment. There is also always a doctor on staff, along with one often on call.
Results can take several days, they currently do not offer same day or rapid testing. You will be notified of your test results, and will have the opportunity to talk to a doctor or counselor.
Recently upgraded, you have the advantage of testing and vaccines for some sexually transmitted infections.
A doctor is on the premise during business hours, along with other knowledgeable staff that are available to talk to you. Depending on the type of test you select, results can be ready in under 30 minutes. Otherwise, you will have to wait a few days to find out if you are positive or negative for a STI.
Thanks to the lab onsite, results from your test typically only take a few days. You will be contacted thru the information you provided on the required forms.
There are licensed physicians at the clinic, and in most cases you will be able to speak with one before and after testing. If a physician is not immediately available, a clinician will be able to speak with you. There is also a number to call if you have any problems or concerns once you have left the clinic.
Call our Expert Care Advisors at
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Description: Social Service Organization.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Testing open to the general public.
Description: Hospital.
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: Hospital.
Description: Educational Organization/Institution. The association offers Hepatitis B immunizations different times a year. Please call for information.
Description: Social Service Organization.
Description: Community Based Organization. Walk-ins are welcome for HIV testing. Please call before you go to ensure availability of HIV test staff. Hours are for in-person services. Organization is also mobile by appointment and will meet anyone, anywhere, in Chicago
Description: Need to enroll as a patient in order to receive services.
Description: Hospital. Any patient who has insurance that the health system accepts can be seen for services. Depending on insurance, some may need a referral. Organization provides HIV care regardless of ability to pay (insurance not required).
Description: AIDS Service Organization. Call for HIV testing schedule
Description: Hospital. Free & confidential HIV testing and counseling to all persons who make an appointment. Three research studies are recruiting for target audiences of 16-20 year old MSM (Crew450), 16-24 transwomen (Lifeskills), and under 30 HIV+ folks (Txt). Call for testing appointments
Over the past 20 years, Chicago has seen many different changes in the spread of a number of STDs, most notably chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. While each STD has seen some drops historically, all are generally on the rise throughout the city.
While these conditions are serious and affect people across the city, there are certain areas which report higher cases in comparison to STD testing results in other neighborhoods. In 2-12, both gonorrhea and chlamydia were most often reported in the neighborhoods of West Garfield Park, East Garfield Park, North Lawndale, Washington Park, West Englewood. Englewood and Greater Grand Crossing. Syphilis, meanwhile, was most often reported in Uptown, Lake View and Washington Heights.
Top STD Testing Locations in Chicago, IL
Primary Item (H2)The clinic only accepts "walk-ins", which means you might be in for a long wait.
Testing is free, though they do appreciate any payment you might be able to give. Age is rarely an issue, though some minors may be asked to provide parental consent. In this case, it is best to call and ask before you come in if you are under 18 years of age.
Getting tested for HIV or Hepatitis can be scary. The staff here will try to put you at ease, even during your potentially long wait.
The hours are limited and when this is combined with the low or even no fee tests, you can usually expect a crowd. This is especially true between 3 pm and close.
There are several programs that can help you manage and except your diagnosis. Counselors are available and the clinic will also help with referrals.
Close to several public modes of transportation, it is not hard to get to. Parking, however is limited at best.
5537 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
One of the benefits of this clinic is that nothing is required to get a HIV or HCV test. Everyone is welcome to just come through the doors, however this can result in an occasional wait.
Insurance, credit cards and cash are welcome, if you can't afford the cost of the test they do have free dates. Simply check their online calendar or call the clinic phone number. They can help you get the testing and any treatment you might need.
Primarily a community outreach center for the local LGBTQ community, they do provide testing for HIV and HCV. Sometimes at little or no cost, depending on your unique situation.
A doctor may not always be available but there are trained personnel that can help. They also offer several programs that can help educate you. Some are also geared towards those recently diagnosed or are living with HIV/AIDS.
Parking can be problematic but the center is near a public bus line.
3656 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613, USA
No appointments are necessary, though you can call ahead. Age is rarely an issue, along with income.
Testing fees are based on a sliding scale, you only pay what you can afford. Donations are also appreciated. This helps to ensure that everyone can take care of their sexual health, regardless of their ability to pay.
The center also offers free HIV testing during their business hours.
The goal of the clinic at this location and the other 2, is to help ensure that everyone has access to quality sexual health care regardless of their income.
The health center can be busy, especially on Saturdays, but if cost is the reason you have been putting off getting tested it might be worth the wait.
Parking is available, though it is limited. There is a bus line that runs close to the clinic, which might be a better option.
4025 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60613, USA
You cannot walk-in, you must make an appointment. Typically, it only takes one to two days to get in. The wait usually isn't long and there are only a few forms to fill out. One of which is for you to list your insurance information. If you do not have insurance, other forms of payment are accepted.
Identification is needed. Your information will be kept private but it is needed to verify that you are the one who made the appointment and are of legal age.
The name of the clinic is trusted, and they have been concentrating on men and women's sexual health for decades.
Their location on N. Broadway is easily accessible by public transportation. This might be your best bet, since parking is limited. Often, it is also not free.
While, free STD testing is not an option. They do provide treatment and counseling. There are also educational opportunities that could help prevent you from getting a STD in the future.
5725 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
The clinic has made it easy to schedule an appointment. You can call or book online via their website. Make sure that you choose the location in Chicago, since they do have a clinic in another state. You do not want to have an appointment hundreds of miles away from home.
The cost of the testing is due when you arrive. Insurance is accepted, along with other common forms of payment. If you do meet certain income requirements, they can direct you to another clinic that offers low cost or even free testing.
This is a private clinic, which means free testing is seldom available. However, some of the services they do provide could make up for the cost. This is especially true if you have insurance.
There are private rooms for testing and counseling, which can help put some people at ease. Since the clinic is also located on 5th St. public transportation is a viable option if you do not want to deal with the hassle of driving and parking in the city.
29 E Madison St #1640, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
They accept appointments and walk-ins, so expect the clinic to be busy. Even if you have called ahead, there is no guarantee that you will get in at the time you reserved. It is actually based on a first come-first served policy. However, an appointment will ensure that you are tested that day.
There will be some forms to fill out, and payment is expected at the time of service. Insurance is welcome, along with other forms of payment. They do not have a sliding scale fee for STD testing. I.D. is also a plus, though in some cases you can still be tested without it if you can provide payment.
This walk-in clinic tries to lessen some of the load off of other health clinics by providing everything from x-rays to STD tests. While this is helpful in the community, it can also create long lines. Scheduling an appointment and filling out the forms ahead of time will not ensure that you will be seen at the time you wanted.
The staff is knowledgeable and are more than happy to help with most of your sexual health care needs. They are also located conveniently close to public transportation, so getting there is usually a breeze.
180 Michigan Ave Ste 1605, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Chicago has a long and sordid history when it comes to sex. Even back in the late 1800s, the Levee area of Chicago was well known for having some of the best โ and most expensive โ brothels in the area. Although the area was eventually raided and shut down by the authorities, Chicago has always been a thriving market for sex workers. Today, tours of Chicagoโs historic Red Light District are popular with the cityโs visitors and the tour includes both historical locations as well as clubs and venues that cater to todayโs locals and tourists. The Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) is also an active organization within the city, connecting sex workers with resources, support and help when they need it most.
As a fairly sex-positive city, Chicago doesnโt shy away from education and outreach projects as a way to help inform, educate and protect the public. Much of that effort has gone into educating the public when it comes to safe sex and the effects of STDs, with a particular focus on HIV and Herpes. Over the past several years, Chicago has seen a decline in HIV infection by around 15% but with a 5% increase for people aged 20-24. As a result, the city has significantly stepped up its efforts to reach out and help people obtain the information and tools they need to protect themselves and their partners with HIV testing in Chicago available through a number of clinics.
Herpes is another serious condition, though many people ignore it until the symptoms become troublesome. In 2012, Chicago ranked third in a list of the top 15 cities with the highest incidence of Herpes.ย ย As a result, many doctorโs offices and STD Clinics offer Herpes testing in Chicago as a general rule. In fact, rates of the condition remain so high that a social club, ChicagoHClub, has become a popular way for people living with the infection to meet others and find ways to move beyond their diagnosis.
In 2013, the Chicago Board of Education began developing a well-rounded and comprehensive sexual education curriculum for Chicago Public Schools. The Chicago Public Schools is the third largest in the country and is responsible for the education of more than 400,000 students. Their new approach uses age-appropriate lessons to educate students about human sexuality, biology and how to prevent STDs and unplanned pregnancies.
Reaching out to the public and laying a foundation of high-quality sex education has been effective in reaching many Chicago residents, but there are still many people who are seen as being at high-risk for STD transmission. But determining who is most vulnerable within Chicago is often determined by the condition being examined. For HIV infection, for example, men are much more likely to be diagnosed but the reverse is true for chlamydia.
Access to confidential STD Testing is also a concern for many people in the city as local clinics are often overworked and understaffed due to the high demands of the cityโs population. Still there are STD clinics which offer same day STD testing as well as public clinics which offer walk-in services such as free STD Testing based on need and income.
But with so many people in need, itโs no surprise that many of these clinics simply canโt keep up with the demand and so anonymous STD testing in Chicago is now offered by national companies which can perform the STD Test with samples sent through the mail.
Chicago is one of the most popular cities in the country, attracting people to relocate as well as millions of visitors every year. Chicago also has a thriving and vibrant adult scene, thanks partly to its history as a city with a high-quality Red Light District as well as its accepting and welcoming attitude towards sex and sexuality. But with this enthusiastic, sex-positive attitude comes serious responsibility about STD testing and treatment as well as specific Herpes testing and HIV testing.
Obtaining an anonymous STD test in Chicago can seem difficult at first since most clinics and offices require insurance and personal information. This can put some people off, but for those who prefer confidential STD testing, there are still plenty of options they can use which will give them the answers they need without exposing their private life to public scrutiny.
STD testing is a vital part of taking control of your own physical and sexual health. Safe, confidential and comprehensive STD testing gives you the reassurance and information you need to meet any health issues head on or simply have fun with a clear conscience. Either way, itโs become the best way todayโs responsible sexually active adults manage their sexual-health and physical well-being.
SOURCES:
http://www.cityofchicago.org
http://www.idph.state.il.us/health/std/sypcases9099.htm
http://www.idph.state.il.us/health/std/chlcases9099.htm
http://www.idph.state.il.us/health/std/goncases9099.htm
http://www.idph.state.il.us/health/std/psyphcases9099.htm
https://www.vimbly.com/chicago/weird-chicago-tours/red-light-district-sex-tour
http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/03/09/ps-herpes-usa-idUSN0923528620100309
http://www.hwerks.com/chicagohclub/
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.