Preferred Location: 3020 Lee Blvd Ste 8 Lehigh Acres,FL 33971 Richmond Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 3020 Lee Blvd Ste 8 Lehigh Acres,FL 33971 Richmond Change Location
Part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area, Lehigh Acres wasnโt developed until the mid-1950s. They belong to Lee County and share their yearly data and statistics for sexually transmitted diseases. In 2017, Lee County showed an HIV prevalence rate of 11.84 per 100,000. This is actually good news, as itโs almost their lowest rate since 1998. In 1998 the rate was 33.6, so good job to Lee County for reducing the rate to a third of that! Health officials credit increased testing and better education on safe sex practices for this reduction.ย
Unfortunately, it isnโt all good news when looking at the other STIs afflicting the Lehigh Acres area. Back in 2006, the rates of new chlamydia cases for Lee County were 247.1 per 100K.
By 2018, that number has almost doubled and is now a rate of 437.7 per 100,000.
Looking at the same years but for gonorrhea, the rate in 2006 was 108.3. That rate hit a low of 58 in 2014 before bouncing right back up and over the 2006 rate. For 2018, the new rate of gonorrhea cases is 111.8 per 100,000. Infectious syphilis is up from 2006, but down from 2016. The new rate for 2018 was 5.4 per 100K.ย
If youโre in the Lehigh area and need to get tested, there are a few affordable options nearby. The Lee County Health Department on 8th Street offers HIV and STD screening by appointment. Thereโs a MinuteClinic inside the CVS on Lee Boulevard. They offer STD testing to adults over 18, excluding pregnant women, no appointment necessary. As it is a walk-in clinic, wait times may vary. For cheap or even free STD testing opportunities keep an eye on your community calendar.
To find the best services and location for you, use our search tools below to compare locationย features across Lehigh Acres clinics with our easy-to-read chart.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.
The McGregor Clinic is a non-profit organization that provides specific services for HIV and AIDS patients.
In addition to testing, the clinic provides access to evidence-informed primary care and medical advice. Specialist staff and lab services, as well as case management services, aim to provide a continuum of care.
You can call in for same-day appointments, and the clinic offers rapid HIV testing, open late and with on-call access.
It is located in Fort Myers, FL, around 17 miles from Lehigh Acres, FL.
Located on McGregor Boulevard in Fort Meyers, FL, around 17 miles from Lehigh Acres, FL, the center is especially focused on progressing research for the treatment of HIV and AIDS.
It is a global organization with many locations, serving around 1 million patients around the world. A client satisfaction survey, according to the organization, found 96% of its clientele appreciated its services.
In addition to HIV/AIDS testing and treatment, it looks at the transfer of the infection and disease through mothers onto their children and methods of mitigating the risks of this.
The Medical Clinic of Lehigh Acres, FL is there to serve the local population and to give them access to acute healthcare while it becomes increasingly difficult to access.
It focuses on minor diseases and injuries but endeavors to provide quality services at convenience, it 's ideal for non-emergent needs. It also offers STD evaluation and treatment, which should include testing and screening for most major STDs.
Planned Parenthood is a federally funded nation-wide health clinic that specializes in sexual health. It operates at 600 facilities across the country where STD testing is available.
Branding itself as an inclusive facility, it offers interpreters for prospective patients whose first language is not English or who are more comfortable speaking their native tongue. It seeks to bring down barriers to good healthcare, often experienced by marginalized members of society.
This clinic in Fort Myers, FL is the closest Planned Parenthood facility to Lehigh Acres, FL.
The Lee County Florida Health Department in Lehigh Acres, FL is responsible for over 735,000 residents and 1.7 million annual visitors with a $16-million-dollar budget.
It controls the STD Intervention Program, responsible for the investigation, prevention and control of STDs.
From testing and screening to medical care, physicians hope to take care of and educate patients and the wider community in providing them with the best course of action. It also helps to identify partners who may also be at risk of infection.
The Minute Clinic is located in Lehigh Acres, FL on Lee Boulevard and is part of the CVS healthcare and pharmaceutical group that has over a thousand locations in the U.S.
The urgent care facility offers a walk-in STD partner program, which is available for some infections. You may be seen by a nurse but a doctor should be available at the facility.
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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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Social Service Organization.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Community Based Organization. Thursday evening hours available until 7pm. Free HIV testing: Mon.-Thurs., 8:30am-12noon and 1pm-3:30pm and Fri., 8:30am-11:30am
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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free conventional HIV testing available and rapid HIV testing available certain days. Please visit website for up to date information. Hepatitis testing for high risk individuals.
Description: Community Based Organization. Testing appointments available Mon.-Thurs., 9am-4pm; Fri., 9am-11am
Recently the CDC and Lee County Health Department released the latest statistics detailing the areaโs STD rates. The statistics show that the number of cases of Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and infectious Syphilis reported each year are rising, and have tripled in the last two decades. While part of this is due to a population boom in the early 2000โs, the recent statistics still indicate that there is a problem with STDs in the suburb.
Currently the countyโs STD rates are below state averages, but health officials are worried that this will soon change. In 2015 the STD rate was reported at 421.6 per 100,000 residents, compared to the stateโs at 555.0. The most common sexually transmitted disease reported in the area is Chlamydia followed closely by HIV. Surprisingly, considering the high HIV/AIDS rate, the number of Syphilis cases reported in the county each year is significantly below state averages.
While teens and young adults are among those with the greatest risk for contracting Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Herpes, residents over the age of 40 are more likely to contract HIV and Syphilis. This is somewhat surprising to health officials considering the large number of retirees that call this coastal community home.
Some of the other statistics that highlight the growing STD problem in the area, along with the need for regular testing include,
Top STD Testing Locations in Lehigh Acres, FL
Primary Item (H2)Anyone at risk of HIV/AIDS is able to get testing and free HIV testing may be available.
The McGregor Clinic is well received by patrons, lauded for excellent support provided by the staff with sensitively delivered advice.
It is a small journey, however, from Lehigh Acres, FL but it has some late hours available as well.
3487 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA
There are no restrictions for testing, free HIV testing may be available, depending on means. It is advised to contact the center for more information.
The center is renowned with sensitive care from its staff. If you are looking for STD testing as well as HIV testing, you may need to seek out an additional testing center. Costs of services are unclear.
2231 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA
There are no specified age or income restrictions, minors may want to check if they require an adult to attend with them. The clinic accepts insurance and Medicaid under which you may be able to get free STD testing if you are covered.
The center is well located for Lehigh Acres, FL residents and appropriately offers testing and follow-up treatment but some patrons have experienced long waits.
1303 Homestead Rd N, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936, USA
There are no restrictions for receiving STD testing, some centers ask for anyone under 13 to be accompanied by an adult. Free STD testing may be available depending on insurance coverage or financial means.
The clinic is 17 miles away for residents of Lehigh Acres, FL, for some this distance may be problematic.
While the staff is known to be friendly and helpful, there can at times be protests outside the clinic, which may make some people feel uncomfortable.
8595 College Pkwy #250, Fort Myers, FL 33919, USA
STD testing and screening is open to all residents, no particular restrictions are specified. Free STD testing may be available, depending on income
The Lee County Department of Health is conveniently located for Lehigh Acres, FL residents. It also presents an accessible and cost-effective avenue for STD testing. Long wait times may apply.
3920 Michigan Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916, USA
Anyone can walk-in for testing, free STD testing may only be available if you qualify for financial assistance, which you can apply for if your gross household income is 200% below the national poverty level.
Getting same-day testing in Lehigh Acres, FL is convenient for residents. However, be prepared to see a nurse rather than a doctor and appreciate you may need to get ongoing care from elsewhere, should you need it.
Fees may also vary.
1350 Lee Blvd, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936, USA
A 2008 United Nations report found teens that have completed a comprehensive sex education program are more likely to wait to have intercourse, and use a condom the first time that they do. The U.N. study also found that these teens and young adults were more confident, and better able to communicate their thoughts, concerns and feelings. Even though the report shows that there are several benefits to providing teens with comprehensive sex education programs, and STD rates are rising, the state still does not feel that these classes are necessary for their students.
While the public school districts do provide scientifically proven information on HIV/AIDS and other STDs, this is not enough to slow down the spread of these infectious diseases. This is especially evident given the areaโs high HIV infection rate.
It is not uncommon for students to graduate not understanding the risks and responsibilities that come with being sexually active, especially since the majority of information received in school is abstinence based. This also means that teens and even some adults do not understand how important regular HIV testing is in Lehigh Acres, or that the simple procedure could potentially save their lives. Regular Herpes testing in Lehigh Acres is another subject rarely discussed, even though it is the best way to prevent the virus from spreading.
It is hard to ignore the increasing STD rates and there are several factors that are causing them to rise. The lack of comprehensive sex education classes are one reason, especially when it comes to the STD rates in teens and young adults. Some students even graduate from high school not understanding how important it is to always use protection during sex, and most do not realize that regular testing should be a part of their health care routine.
Advances in medicine has made it possible for older residents to stay sexually active longer, and this helps to explain the rising HIV rates in men over 40. The majority of older adults have never had any type of sex education, and most do not realize that their behavior could be putting their health at risk.
One of the main contributing factors is the areaโs high poverty rates. The majority of residents in this suburb are living well below the national poverty level, and this makes it difficult for them to afford regular testing fees. This is especially true now that Medicaid now longer covers this simple procedure. The cuts to health care has also forced several of the cityโs testing facilities to close their doors, which has resulted in long lines and crowded waiting rooms at the few that are still open.
Until these and other issues are resolved this suburb can expect its STD rates to continue to rise.
Before you head to the beach it is important to take a few minutes to think about your sexual health. The number of STDs reported in the community each year is rising, and regular testing is important for everyoneโs health. It is understandable if you donโt want to spend the entire day waiting in a long line at one of the cityโs STI clinics, and now you donโt have to. With one simple phone call you can easily schedule confidential STD testing and only spend a few minutes at a conveniently located lab, this way you can take care of your sexual health and still have plenty of time to enjoy a day in the sun.
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.