The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the US is experiencing a steep rise in STD Infections for the fourth consecutive year. Gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia cases have surged to record-breaking highs with many common STDs increasing by up to 30%.
With so many new cases, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a public health crisis. Regular STD testing, including HIV tests, is an important preventative measure that helps you stay healthy and free of infections, especially if you are sexually active.
However, there is more to STDs than just testing. For many STDs, doctors should provide treatment at the time of STD testing. This is something that may not be available at all centers, especially if they are just a lab facility.
There can be elements of embarrassment, fear, dread, and worry that you might test positive for an STD. We want to take away some of that anxiety for you by providing as much information as possible. In our experience, the appointment, waiting period and next steps all run smoother if you know what to expect.
The first thing to know is that STD testing is a normal health-related practice. More than that, regular screening is the responsible choice to make for your health and the health of the people you’re intimate with, whether it is protected or unprotected sex.
Next, understanding cost is important. To help ease some of the anxiety around the STD testing process, we’ve answered some commonly asked questions. We hope this gives you a better idea of what to expect during your next appointment.
STD Testing, Prevention, and Treatment
The goal of STD testing is to screen and identify persons with STDs. It is also necessary to:
- Accurately assess the risk of STDs
- Provide vaccines where indicated to prevent vaccine-preventable STDs
- Identify asymptomatic and symptomatic persons with STDs
- Quickly diagnose, treat and follow up with persons tested for STDs
- Identify at-risk sexual partners who are at risk for STDs for screening and treatment.
How much does STD testing near me cost?
STD testing can be very costly and expensive. STD testing centers often provide lab tests that cost anywhere from $150 to $360 for a single test. With such a wide price range, it makes sense for patients to explore their options.
Does insurance cover STD testing?
As with most doctor appointments, the cost of STD testing depends largely on whether you have health insurance. The type of insurance that you have also plays a role. If you have insurance, you’ll likely only need to pay the copay amount decided on by your health care provider.
Should I go to cheap STD testing near me?
There are some risks involved in picking the less expensive STD testing options. Some companies that sell home STD testing kits don’t have the right certification or equipment to properly screen for diseases. Others use tests that give unclear results. It is possible to get unreliable, or even incorrect, test results.
Given the current state of STD infections, that is a risk you shouldn’t take. We recommend that patients rely on a medical center they trust. Whether that is their local Planned Parenthood clinic, a Statcare Urgent Care location, or their regular doctor.
Where can I get tested for an STD near me?
If you decide to go to a lab or a diagnostic center, choose a facility that is registered with the State of New York. Make sure they can provide quality test results and follow-up care. You certainly don’t want to have an abnormal test result and be left alone to deal with it. Also, know that these STD testing centers do not keep injections and antibiotics to treat high-risk persons.
Another problem is that these diagnostic facilities often only have medical professionals who are trained to get blood and urine samples, not cervical canal and anal canal specimens. These are necessary to screen for human papilloma (HPV) virus testing. HPV is a common asymptomatic STD in both men and women.
We know that it’s important to find an STD testing center that is within your budget. Keep in mind that if the price sounds too good to be true, it’s probably is.
Understanding STD Testing Cost Options
The cost of each individual STD treatment plan will vary. When planning for the costs associated with STD treatment, consider your insurance plan.
Depending on your diagnosis, you may have to pay for ongoing treatment. If your budget is a concern, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for different options. They will work with you to find a treatment plan that makes you healthy and fits into your budget.
If you want to learn more about our services, visit our Urgent Care Costs and Prices page or give us a call at (917) 451-3951. We’re happy to help you through the entire testing process.
