Preferred Location: 726 S Irby Street Florence,SC 29501 Florence Change location
Preferred Location: 726 S Irby Street Florence,SC 29501 Florence Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 726 S Irby Street Florence,SC 29501 Florence Change Location
On a list of the most sexually diseased cities in the US, Florence ranks at #52, and South Carolina in general has some of the highest STD rates in the country. Budget cuts to the public health sector have hurt the South, which has, on average, higher poverty rates than the rest of the country.
Many people have to travel to find a clinic, so transportation problems and consequences of missed working hours can prevent them from actually doing so. Social stigma is also a very real problem.
In 2016, the HIV prevalence rate in Florence County was 652.9 per 100K people, above South Carolina’s rate of 400.7. The chlamydia rate was 739.4 per 100K people, in comparison with the South Carolina rate of 575.5. The gonorrhea and (primary and secondary) syphilis rates were 261.3 and 7.9.
At least one clinic in the area provides free STD testing, but only for HIV and hep C. There may be a wait for these services. The Florence County Public Health clinic at East Cheves St provides STI testing.
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
HopeHealth was founded in 1991 as a medical clinic that offered support services to PLWHA, and it was recognized as a Federally Qualified Health Center in 2007. The clinic diversified its services to include primary and pediatric care that targets underserved populations of Aiken, Orangeburg, Clarendon, Williamsburg, and Florence. The health center has clinics in 12 locations, and the medical team is proficient in managing HIV.
Palmetto AIDS Life Support Services (PALSS) is an organization that was formed in 1985 to join the race of the battle against HIV/AIDS. Physicians utilize the Uni-Gold rapid test for HIV, and the test results may be available within 10 minutes. Since the clinic offers free services, it partners with other organizations and donors to effectively operate.
Daybreak Pregnancy Center is a pregnancy clinic whose physicians aim to provide comprehensive care to women facing unplanned pregnancies. In addition to pregnancy care, medical practitioners offer ultrasounds, parenting classes, and abortion information as well as the provision of maternal and baby items. Additionally, clinicians offer STD testing and diagnostic services.
Planned Parenthood - Columbia Health Center of Columbia, SC, is a health center that offers state-of-the-art medical services, including reproductive health and primary care. The clinic has physicians who are well-trained to offer comprehensive HIV/STD testing, diagnostic, and treatment. You may receive rapid HIV tests, and the medical team may release the results in approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is the state department that is mandated to protect and improve the health of South Carolinians. It's run and operated by the Board of Health and Environmental Control. The medical team is well-trained and experienced in screening, testing, and treating STDs.
Palmetto Proactive Healthcare is a medical provider of primary care and family-centered health services. Its personnel is efficient in offering laboratory services, including testing and diagnosing STDs. Other health-care services available include x-rays, physicals, flu shots, EKG, and the provision of wellness programs.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available.
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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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
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Description: Need to enroll as a patient in order to receive services.
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If you’re insured, you may qualify for medical care. Additionally, uninsured and underinsured individuals may benefit from the sliding fee scale program. No one is turned away from receiving health care based on age, gender, color, race, or religion.
PLWHA may receive comprehensive care and support, including assistance with access to transportation and affordable housing. Additionally, patients may view their medical records online without the need to visit the facility in-person. Also, health-care providers work with confidentiality.
360 N Irby St, Florence, SC 29501, USA
You’ll receive free HIV tests regardless of your age or gender, and persons diagnosed with HIV may receive free medication and support.
The medical team is well-trained to offer confidential HIV services. Additionally, PLWHA may receive comprehensive services, including advocacy, emergency financial assistance, food pantry, and linkage to affordable housing. Also, health-care providers work with discretion while serving every client.
2638 Two Notch Rd # 108, Columbia, SC 29204, USA
Free STD services are availed to everyone regardless of age, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or ethnicity.
All services are available at zero cost to everyone who visits the health center. Additionally, the medical team discharges STD services with confidentiality. Also, if you need to speak to a medical practitioner, you may walk-in any day except on Wednesdays when you ought to book appointments. Moreover, the health center is open for extra hours during the weekend.
1601 St Julian Pl, Columbia, SC 29204, USA
Uninsured persons aged 19 to 26 may qualify for the Merck Vaccine Patient Assistance Program to receive free Gardasil vaccines. Otherwise, regardless of your age, financial situation, gender, or insurance status, you may benefit from a state-funded program or sliding fee scale while seeking STD services.
The medical team offers free interpretation services to persons who don’t speak English. Additionally, clients may either walk into the clinic or schedule appointments for STD services. Also, the medical team always works with discretion.
Admin 103, 2712 Middleburg Dr Suite 107, Columbia, SC 29204, USA
Any resident of South Carolina qualifies for free to low-cost STD services. You may visit the health center regardless of your gender, age, race, color, or sexual orientation.
Through the HOPWA program, HIV positive persons may receive low-cost housing opportunities. Additionally, everyone who visits the health department is guaranteed confidential services. Also, you may spend little or no cash at the facility.
145 E Cheves St, Florence, SC 29506, USA
The medical providers accept payment for STD services in the form of cash and debit and credit cards. Anyone, regardless of age, religion, gender, or race, may qualify for low-cost STD testing.
Physicians on staff work promptly to ensure you receive treatment within an hour or less after visiting the clinic. Moreover, the staff members serve walk-in clients and may schedule appointments if it’s your preferred choice. When needed, physicians may work for extended hours.
126 S Assembly St #4545, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
Every year, middle and high schools across South Carolina send students home with a letter to their parents. The letter explains their sexual education curriculum as required by state law. The program of instruction for this unit may not include discussion of alternate sexual lifestyles from heterosexual relationships including, but not limited to, homosexual relationships except in the context of instruction concerning sexually transmitted infections.
Some believe the message is that homosexuality is wrong and that it is not an appropriate sexual lifestyle. Some feel this promotes homophobia and teaching a curriculum that violates the U.S. Constitution.
South Carolina is one of six states that forbids teachers from portraying gay relationships as acceptable or in a positive light. Despite attempts in recent years, the current Comprehensive Health Education Act was amended only once — in 2014, when the General Assembly passed Erin’s Law requiring schools to teach sexual abuse and sexual assault prevention.
Senator Vincent Sheheen introduced a proviso into the state budget that allows the state Department of Education to hold school districts accountable for failing to comply with the health education law. If a district refuses to comply, the Education Department can withhold 1 percent of the district’s funds allocated in the Student Health and Fitness Act. According to an annual survey by the Education Department, 70 percent of school districts in the state were not compliant with the Comprehensive Health Education Act.
Demographics play a role in STD rates in the city and area. Sexually active people ages 15 to 24 are at higher risk of getting an STD.
The demographic for HIV/AIDs in South Carolina is young and African American. The majority of people being infected with HIV are men who have sex with other men.
But African-Americans and African-American women are disproportionately affected. They’re accounting for over 70 percent of new infections.
An alarming discovery is how young these patients are. Some are as young as 13 to 19 years old.
Recent data shows that in the state of South Carolina for young adults between the ages of 20 and 24, 55 out of every 100,000 are infected with HIV every year. That is one of the highest rates in the country.
The reasons the deep south is struggling to bring down diagnosis and death rates for HIV/AIDS are complicated. Reasons could include a social stigma, poverty, rural geography, and lack of affordable healthcare.
Being in the Bible Belt can add to the stigma. If someone is is diagnosed with HIV, they could decide not to get treatment. They might fear being rejected in their religious community.
The state ranked in the top 10 nationally for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and diagnosed rates of HIV/AIDS. Of concern is a jump in the rate of HIV/AIDS among teenagers. From 2014 to 2015, the rate increased 10.9 percent in 15 to 19 year-olds, per 100,000 residents.
Only 59 percent of high school students in one report said they used a condom the last time they had sex. In a recent report we see that patients in the south have the lowest five-year survival rate for new AIDS diagnoses in the country. Nearly a third of those diagnosed with AIDS died within five years of being told they were infected.
There are several options available to you for STI testing near your city. Unfortunately, Planned Parenthood facilities at Columbia and Fayetteville are each about 80 miles from your city.
If the trip is not a problem, you could use a Planned Parenthood facility as it offers STD testing, diagnosis, and treatment including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. You could contact the office for information about your best options in your city.
A Planned Parenthood center provides testing and diagnosis for HIV and testing, diagnosis, and treatment for bacterial vaginosis, genital warts, herpes, and trichomoniasis. STD prevention services include condoms, HPV (Gardasil) vaccines, hepatitis B vaccines, and STD/safer sex education. The facility tests for gonorrhea and chlamydia using a urine sample. If this test shows an infection, then you will get treatment and an explanation of how your partner can be treated.
A better option than Planned Parenthood could be one of these. HopeHealth Incorporated is an AIDS Service Organization. It offers HIV testing.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control Florence Health Department offers:
You could also consider a private service such as PlushCare. You order your STD tests. Then you visit a local lab. Then you get results via email in three business days or less.
When you order you choose the tests you want to order. If you do not know for sure which tests to order, call the service so they can help. When you visit a local lab you’ll bring with you a personalized lab order form.
There is no appointment needed. It takes one blood and/or urine sample and about 15-30 minutes. If results show a need for treatment, you connect with the service and a doctor to provide a treatment plan.
An urgent care center is another option for testing. This option is less talked about but can work with a walk in clinic a facility you can use for testing.
This can include testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes, HIV, Syphilis or any other disease or condition. You can consider clinics such as the McLeon Urgent Care Center, Walmart Urgent Care Center, Carolina’s Urgent Care, and Doctor’s Urgent Care Center.
Whether you go to a clinic or hospital in your area, Planned Parenthood center, a high school counsellor or nurse, or a private service, you can find in your area information about STDs, testing, and treatment. While STD rates are high in your area, help is available in the way of testing and treatment that is confidential, discreet, compassionate, and effective.
Consider how the staff at facilities in your area is trained to help someone like you, reminding you to check your health, improve it, and keep yourself healthy by always using a condom to practice safe sex. A counsellor or nurse at South Florence High School can help you with information about STDs, testing, and treatment.
The Carolinas Hospital System is a facility that can help you too. Here are links to some of the resources mentioned above.
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: 726 S Irby Street Florence,SC 29501 Florence Change Location
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