Preferred Location: 319 Longwood Ave Boston,MA 02115 Longwood Medical and Academic Area Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 319 Longwood Ave Boston,MA 02115 Longwood Medical and Academic Area Change Location
Fortunately, Boston reports low rates of STD cases. In order to maintain a trend below the national average sexually active adults should undergo routine testing and follow safe sex practices.
Boston sits in Suffolk County, which is the fourth most populated county in the state of Massachusetts. STD statistics throughout Suffolk County show just why caring for your health is so important.
In 2015 163 cases of HIV were reported, which is a rate of 24 per 100,000 people. The year 2016 saw 681 cases of gonorrhea were reported, for a rate of 87.5 per 100,000. And also in 2016 the reported cases of chlamydia reached 2,334 โ or 300 per 100,000 people.
However, although Boston rates of STD cases are below the national average they are still on the rise.
Outreach programs and initiatives have been spreading to educate people on the importance of barrier method protections and frank discussions about sex between partners.
There are many testing site options in the city of Boston. BAGLY has a location on Beacon Street and Massachusetts General Hospital on Fruit Street offers a variety of testing options. From Bay Cove Human Services on Canal Street to North End Waterfront Health on Hanover Street.
Free STD testing is also available for those that qualify and the Boston Public Health Commission can provide you with all the details. Sliding scale fees are another option, simply request information when you contact them.
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.
Project Trust was started to help people struggling with addiction. They quickly realized that many substance abusers were at a higher risk for contracting a STD. Over the years they have expanded to include testing for a few of these viruses.
It might take a few days to get your results back but in the meantime you can take advantage of their services that work to help you reduce your risk.
The mission of AAC is to put an end to HIV/AIDS. Their outreach programs center on those that cannot afford traditional care and the physicians and researchers on staff are working to improve the outcome of those diagnosed with a sexually transmitted virus.
A trained counselor will administer the test and you should know your status in a few days, at the most.
For over 60 years, the MA sexual health clinic has been providing screening and treatment for most sexually transmitted diseases. These services are provided in a comfortable setting by professional staff that are trained in the diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections.
Once you have been tested, it will take a few days for all your results to come back.
Fenway clinic is proud to offer Generation 4 testing. This looks for antibodies and an antigen. An antigen is present in those that have only recently been infected with HIV. It appears within 14 days of exposure. This gives their physicians a better chance of catching the virus and starting treatment almost immediately.
MAP was started 20 years ago to address the need for counseling, support, referral and screening services for the Asian and Pacific Islander community in the city. Currently, they comprise 9 percent of the city's population.
Testing without appointments are only done on Fridays, which can delay the time it takes for results to come back.
Staffed by qualified medical personnel, you will feel at home the minute you step in the door. While you are waiting to see a physician you can pass the time reading some of their literature that covers the dangers of leaving a sexually transmitted infection untreated.
Testing is easy and painless. A physician may perform a routine examination just to ensure your overall health. You will get results back in a relatively brief time, usually only a few days.
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: Community Based Organization. None. The clinic services are for any young person 29 years old or younger. Can do same-day referrals (before 5pm) for PrEP enrollment and treatment of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Clinic hours: Wednesday,12:30pm-6:30pm and Thursday, 12:30pm-4:30pm. You must email us to make an appointment before you can come in person
Description: Need to register as a patient. Photo ID, Insurance card.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Hospital. Insurance is not required for most services. P24 antigen HIV testing also available.
Description: Sidney Borum Jr Health Center: Mon., 8:45am-7pm; Tues.-Thurs., 8:45am-6pm; Fri., 8:45am-5pm
Description: Community Based Organization. Please email [email protected] or call 617-927-0836 to make an appointment
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: Walk-in rapid testing: Thurs., 9am-4pm; Fri., 9am-12pm.
Description: Need to register as a patient
Description: HIV Counseling & Testing provides services & referrals for treatment and care for people who are at high risk for HIV, regardless of one's ability to pay at several sites across Cambridge and Somerville. Please call 617-591-6767 for testing dates and locations.
Description: Community Based Organization. Free walk-in testing clinic: Thursdays 3pm-5pm
Description: Community Based Organization.
Description: Free HIV testing is available as part of a medical visit, by appointment, and by walk-in (based on counselor availability). Call 617-267-0159. Free services on Wednesdays from 4pm-7pm - 2nd Fl - first come, first served basis.
Founded in 1630 and one of the oldest cities in America it is also important to visit one of the free STD testing centers in Boston, Massachusetts since it is currently experiencing an increase in the number of sexually transmitted diseases which includes Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, C, Herpes, Syphilis, and HIV. While there are STD clinics in Boston, MA the long lines has many residents searching for a different option. Now you can schedule private STD testing with one simple phone call and only spend 15 to 20 minutes in the local lab. This still gives you plenty of time to stroll along Freedom Trail and see the historic sites that were crucial in the countryโs founding.
Recent statistics are showing that Boston is experiencing a steady increase in STD rates, and this trend has been ongoing for the past twenty years. While recent reports show that Syphilis is decreasing slightly between 2011 and 2012, there is still a growing problem with the number of new cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea occurring each year.
In a four year period, between 2008 and 2012 the number of new Chlamydia cases rose by almost 100 per 100,000 residents, and Gonorrhea also increased in the same time frame. While the number of Syphilis diagnoses does seem to be decreasing, it should still be mentioned that it does affect more men than women. Recently released statistics also show that an estimated 63 percent of first and secondary cases of Syphilis occurred in men who regularly engaged in intercourse with other men.
This, when combined with the percentage of homosexual men with HIV/AIDS only shows that it is always important to get tested regularly for any of the infectious sexual diseases.
The statistics released by state and city health officials show that everyone is at risk of developing an STD and some of the other statistics include these sobering numbers;
Top STD Testing Locations in Boston, MA
Primary Item (H2)Anyone can drop in. You do not need to have a substance abuse problem. Testing can be free, but you will want to ask about dates and times for the free services. You also want to get there a few minutes before closing, since the evening hours are their busiest.
If you are a substance abuser, you can find help here. They will also provide testing to find out the status of your sexual health. While there is not any treatment, you can still take part in counseling and support programs.
They will even help you find employment and living quarters.
721 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02118, USA
Appointments do need to made over the phone, but you can often get in that day. Just call early in the morning. Testing is free and you do not need to bring any documents showing proof of income. Simply come in a few minutes before your appointment to fill out the new patient form.
AAC is a community oriented clinic that wants everyone to feel welcome. Testing is free and a trained counselor will help you understand your risks and how having a sexually transmitted disease could impact your life.
75 Amory St, Boston, MA 02119, USA
Even though this clinic is part of the Massachusetts General Hospital, they do not turn anyone away if they do not have insurance. Their goal is to see to everyone's well-being and help protect you from STIs.
The hospital STI clinic offers innovative and comprehensive care for their patients. They have a wide range of clinical services that can care for patients with infectious diseases.
Their physicians are active in a broad range of basic and clinical research activities that work to improve the quality of care you receive.
55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
While there are several Fenway associated clinics around the city, this is the only one that offers free STD and HIV testing. You will need to call first before showing up. However, from 4 pm to 6 pm on Thursdays you can just walk in.
Fenway prides itself on being a safe place to receive testing and counseling for those affected by HIV or other STDs. The staff is professional and respectful and will treat you the way they would want to be treated.
142 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116, USA
Drop-in hours are only for a few hours on Friday. Even though the clinic has the rest of the week marked as "closed", they still see patients with an appointment. Hours do vary and it could take up to a week to get an appointment you want.
Testing is free. This is a non-profit group. While. they do not discriminate the majority of their clients are Asian or Pacific Islanders.
MAP addresses the sexual health needs of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the city. They are culturally respectful and do welcome everyone regardless of their nationality.
You can drop in one day a week, otherwise you need to call. Testing is also free, along with the other services they offer.
322 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116, USA
They welcome walk-in patients that show up at least one hour before closing. It is also based on availability that day. If the patient rooster is already full, you will have to return the next day. They do suggest you call ahead and it more convenient to schedule an appointment either by the phone or online.
Planned Parenthood is a leader in providing quality and affordable health care. They provide a number of services without ever passing judgement on their clients. With or without insurance, you can always come to us for your health care.
1055 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
The historic city of Boston is experiencing a steady rise in its rate of STDs, which makes it more important than ever to get tested regularly. The high number of sexually transmitted diseases in teens and young adults seem to show that the cityโs sexual education programs are not working as well as health officials hoped.
Boston does have a sexual education program in its public school system, and the city also has condoms available and does teach students the proper way to use the prophylactics. While some residents might point out that the high number of sexually transmitted diseases among teens and college students indicate that these programs are not working, health officials simply point out that the statistics would be much worse without these educational classes.
One of the reasons that education is not always successful is that students must have parental consent to participate in these classes, which is not always given. Sometimes this is due to parental belief that these classes are not appropriate for their child, while other students simply never turn their permission slips back in.
Regardless of the reason there is still a high risk for students to develop an STD, and many do not understand the importance of regular testing. Herpes testing in Boston is important for students since this virus can be transmitted without sexual contact. HIV testing in Boston is also critical and without education many residents do not understand how important this is
Demographics plays a large role in the rate of STDs, and the city of Boston is no exception. This historic city has a diverse population, but unfortunately statistics show that African Americans are at a greater risk of contracting Chlamydia or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Income and cultural beliefs are some of the reasons for the higher number of STDs reported in predominately African American neighborhoods. Lower income households often cannot afford regular STD testing, and these same individuals often lead a lifestyle that puts them at a higher risk.
Cultural beliefs also make it difficult for city and state health officials to stress the importance of regular testing, especially for teens who might fear their parents reaction if they learn that their child is sexually active. Many cultures also look down on men who admit that they have an STD which can make it difficult to ensure everyone is tested regularly.
Other factors that contribute to the growing STD epidemic include the simple belief many young adults feel that it could never happen to them.
In between tours of the cityโs historic sites make sure you get tested regularly for any sexually transmitted disease, especially considering Bostonโs high rate of infection. There are a few clinics for residents to go to but the long linesย has many people choosing a more convenient option. Now you can schedule confidential STD testing with one simple phone call and avoid potentially running into someone you know. You can also avoid the long wait so you can still catch a Red Socks game or visit the shops at historic Faneuil Hall.
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.