Preferred Location: 1601 Trinity St Suite A Austin,TX 78712 Downtown Austin Change location
Preferred Location: 1601 Trinity St Suite A Austin,TX 78712 Downtown Austin Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 1601 Trinity St Suite A Austin,TX 78712 Downtown Austin Change Location
Travis County is ranked the second worst county in Texas for cases of Chlamydia, with 6,639 new cases reported in 2016.
There were 2,429 new cases of Gonorrhea reported in 2016, which is a higher number than any reported in that county for the last seven years. The state is also ranked third out of the 50 U.S. States for reported HIV cases and the Travis County Health Department doesn’t see this changing in the near future.
To help combat this growing health problem the city is working with health officials to encourage routine STD testing.
There are many testing options available in Austin, including some public ones like the Planned Parenthood on Research Boulevard which boasts plenty of parking in a tree filled lot or on 7th Street. Both options are easily accessible. With plenty of parking and accessibility, there is no reason for you to not keep up with your sexual health.
There are private options as well, such as on Balcones Drive or Cameron Road. These locations do require an appointment so be sure to call ahead. If finances are an issue, you can inquire about free STD testing when scheduling a visit to your clinic. You may have to wait for your results but at least you are taking the first step towards caring for your sexual health.
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 CDC2 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Concentrating solely on HIV, the clinic offers programs that are centered on the patient and provides several services that can help HIV positive people thrive.
They work with individuals, partners and families that have or know someone with the virus. The staff is comprised of physicians that specialize in the disease. They also sponsor programs throughout the community.
There is a lot to recommend this clinic, which has become a staple in the neighborhood. They are a part of a larger network of clinics in the city that provide OB/GYN care and even dental cleanings.
While they only test for HIV, you can also receive treatment here. This means that you can stay with the same team of doctors and other health personnel for as long as you want to.
The women's clinic concentrates on female health. Along with providing free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, they also offer testing for STDs for a small fee.
The specimens from the tests, both blood and urine, will be collected by a clinician and sent to a nearby lab. For most, the results will be back in 48 hours.
The program was first started to meet the needs of gay, white men infected with HIV/AIDS. It has changed over the past 27 years to serve anyone at risk of contracting sexually transmitted disease. This includes implementing programs and services that focus on those infected sticking with treatment, along with preventing these diseases.
The staff is compassionate, regardless of your lifestyle. This includes everyone from nurses to the physicians that work there.
For decades this organization has been working towards removing the stigma that is often associated with sexually transmitted infections. They have literature in the lobby, condoms that can be taken with no questions asked and programs designed to bring awareness.
Laws have changed over the years and funding has been reduced but they still continue with their goal of improving everyone's health.
One of several clinics serving men, this location is near several neighborhoods and works to relive some of the overcrowding that is commonly found in emergency rooms.
A full medical staff is on hand and they have the equipment to test for the majority of sexually transmitted diseases. Results for some tests can take up to a week but this is about the same time frame if you choose to go to a traditional E.R. just without the long wait to be seen.
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
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Description: Services at the ARCH are reserved for patients experiencing homelessness. Please note that the clinic is located inside the ARCH Shelter. Closed for lunch daily 11:30am-12:30pm. Patients seen on a walk-in and appointment basis
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Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Closed daily from 12noon-1pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
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Description: This clinic is located on the Huston Tilloston Campus. First time patients should call 512-978-9010 for an eligibility appointment.
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Description: Social Service Organization.
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Description: Social Service Organization.
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
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Description: For women only. For medically underserved and/or uninsured. Must enroll as a patient to receive services.
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Description: AIDS Service Organization. Medical visits by appointment only. Evening appointments available. Clinic offers everything at low or no cost to patients even if they don’t have health insurance or if they are undocumented. Closed Wed., 3:30pm-5pm
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Description: Pharmaceutical Company.
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Description: Open specific Saturdays 9am-2pm
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Description: AIDS Service Organization. Call for in-person testing hours. HIV Self-test distributed by mail
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Description: The David Powell Clinic provides primary medical care on an outpatient basis to adult HIV-positive residents of the Austin Health Services Delivery Area (HSDA), which includes Travis, Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, and Williamson Counties.
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Description: Social Service Organization.
Austin has been experiencing a steady growth in STIs, and this is not expected to change. What has city and state health officials truly concerned is the unexpected rise in primary and secondary Syphilis. This STD hasn’t seen such a steady increase since the 1940’s, and many health officials are surprised to see its return. What is even more surprising is it seems to be targeting Caucasian and African American men who are otherwise healthy.
Other statistics remained steady, though gonorrhea does seem to be declining which has led some residents to believe that the abstinence initiative is working. Countering this mistaken belief are the recent statistics for Austin and Travis County that show teens and young adults are still sexually active. Some of these statistics include,
Table 1. Number of persons living with HIV by race/ethnicity, Greater Austin Area, 2006-2012
The highest rate of STD infections occurred in men and women under the age of 35, with teens and young adults being the most affected. As these numbers are expected to continue to increase, it is becoming apparent that education needs to be implemented in the city’s schools.
Table 2. Number of persons living with HIV by age groups and gender, Greater Austin Area, 2012
There are not any qualifications needed to get a free rapid HIV test. Anyone can come during testing hours. Just remember, the clinic is closed every other Saturday.
Wait times are usually not long and your test is confidential. This includes when you receive the results a few minutes later.
The staff provides life affirming medical care and combine this with their social and direct support services.
They have the technology to complete screenings on site so you don't have to go somewhere else or wait for results. You can also get involved with their outreach programs. These include everything from BBQs to fun runs. All monies raised go to support their continued efforts.
7215 Cameron Rd, Austin, TX 78752, USA
It really is best if you call ahead, especially if you want to talk to a physician. Since HIV/AIDS treatment is provided here, doctors often have a full schedule for the day. You could also find that the clinic is too busy for walk-ins, which means that you'll have to come back the next day.
Calling ahead also ensures that you know exactly what to bring.
There is a list of necessary documents on their website, you can also find information about SFS (their sliding scale fee program), along with MAP (medical access program).
Close to Capital Metro routes and even able to provide transportation assistance for qualified individuals to and from the clinic, they show that they are dedicated to their patients.
They also have a translation service for anyone that is not fluent in English or Spanish.
The center adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality. Personal health information is disclosed only as necessary for treatment, clinic administration. This ensures that the status of your health is up to you to disclose to whom and when you want.
4614 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78751, USA
Call or go online to make an appointment. Their interactive website will even help you with directions if needed.
Since the fees are so low, often under twenty dollars for some tests there is little need for you to bring any insurance information. Teens and adult women are encouraged to stop in. However, they do not discourage guys from getting tested only that they might not be able to provide all the after care they might need.
One of the many services performed at this clinic is testing for infections that are usually transmitted sexually. Their fees are kept low to help ensure that everyone has access to the preventative care they need.
The center is close to downtown, you can see the skyline. This also makes it easy to get there by bus. Some maybe even be able to walk. This way after your test you can visit some of the city's amazing shops.
209 E Ben White Blvd #201, Austin, TX 78704, USA
The hours for the part of the clinic that handles STI testing are limited, so it is best to call ahead if you want to be assured that you will be seen when you come in. The staff also has several duties, which can make it hard for them to spend quality time with unannounced clients.
Since the focus of the clinic is to provide testing and treatment for those that normally would not seek it, there is rarely a charge for their services.
Since 1988, their vision has been simple. To help improve the quality of life for everyone affected by Hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. Over the years they have expanded to test and treat other common STDs but their core mission remains the same.
They still focus on those whose lifestyles may increase their risk, along with others that do not seek out testing on a regular basis.
8101 Cameron Rd #105, Austin, TX 78754, USA
If you just walk-in there is a chance that you get be seen by a physician or other health care professional but this is not a guarantee. Anyone with an appointment will be seen first, regardless of what time you got there.
It also pays to call first if you are wondering about free or reduced charges. They are available, you just have to know ahead of time what to bring.
Some people may worry about running into protesters or others assuming that they are there for another reason. Thankfully, this is rarely the case due to the progressive attitude of most of the city's residents. They understand that the clinic is there to help and keep everyone safe from STDs.
If there is a language barrier, clients can call and request that a trained interpreter is there for them. They do appreciate if you give at least 3 days notice in advance. This is just another way the center tries to make everyone feel comfortable.
9041 Research Blvd #250, Austin, TX 78758, USA
Any emergency they are not equipped to handle and they do require appointments for testing. This is easy to accomplish by phone. You can also find out with documentation you need to bring.
They do accept medicaid and other forms of insurance. However, they do not provide free testing to any patient.
Of course, the first step towards good health starts with regular physicals and a consultation with a provider who understands men’s health. You won’t dread them here. Our office is different, and you’ll feel as soon as you come in.
They are also near several stores, gyms and walking trails so you can run errands and be proactive about your sexual health.
4301 W William Cannon Dr #300, Austin, TX 78749, USA
Austin also follows the state standard of emphasizing abstinence in its independent school system, instead of promoting STI awareness. It should be noted that condoms are available to students who have signed up for the short program, but there is not any information available on how to properly use a prophylactic. While this is a small step in the right direction to help slow down the spread of STDs, and prevent teen pregnancies it is not enough to protect students and young adults.
Without sexual education programs students will also not be aware that they can still contract an STD even without having intercourse. Some viral infections can be spread through contact, and some people may not exhibit symptoms until they have accidentally infected others. Herpes testing can prevent embarrassing flare ups, along with helping to prevent further infections. It is also vitally important to your health and that of others to get regular HIV testing in Austin.
Austin might be the capital, but it has a unique flair all its own. It is a blend of funky art and southwestern style, mixed in with professional charm. This blend of styles and cultures can also be seen in the city’s demographics. The fun and laid back attitude of the residents has made it possible for several clinics to open in some of the downtown neighborhoods.
This has made it easier for inner city children and their families to receive proper health care, including regular testing for many of the common STDs. It is some of the outlying neighborhoods that are experiencing the biggest rise in STIs, often due to religious beliefs and a lack of clinics. Conservative beliefs strongly promote abstinence, and many parents do not believe in discussing sex with their children.
Unlike other cities where the majority of the STD cases are generally concentrated in the inner neighborhoods, the opposite seems to be true for Austin. This is not to say that a language barrier and cultural practices do not also play a role in the rising rate of STDs. Until city officials are ready to fully recognize the problem and understand the importance of educating students about the dangers of unprotected sex will the STD rates start to decrease across the city.
Home to several famous kinetic wind artists and the state capital, Austin is a fun and vibrant city that has something for everyone. Unfortunately it is also dealing with STDs which makes it important to get screened regularly. There are a number of clinics, but many residents are choosing to schedule confidential STD testing. One quick phone call and a 20 minute visit at a conveniently located lab, and you’ll still be able to visit the unique shops, boutiques, and fabulous restaurants that make Austin a great city.
References:
http://www.burntorangereport.com/diary/15680/hiv-infection-rates-on-the-rise-in-austin
http://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2015-05-22/season-of-risk/
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.
Your preferred location: 1601 Trinity St Suite A Austin,TX 78712 Downtown Austin Change Location
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