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Preferred Location: Change location
In 2016 Polk County witnessed yet another climb in reported rates for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. That year there were 991 reported cases of gonorrhea, 3,023 cases of chlamydia, 104 cases of early syphilis, and 51 reported cases of infectious syphilis.
Across the county over half – almost 60% – of all new STD infections are reported in sexually active persons between the ages of 15 and 24 years old.
Lakeland has testing locations throughout the city. On North Missouri Avenue you’ll find the Central Florida Health Care and on East Edgewood Drive you’ll find the Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, and on Lakeland Hills Boulevard you’ll find the Florida Department of Health in Polk County.
Public health professionals recommend regular testing for maintaining health and wellbeing for all sexually active persons. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County maintains a Sexually Transmitted Disease Program that focuses on reducing the transmission rate and medical implications of STDs across the county. Free STD testing is part of the program but you must meet the qualifications.
Their services include testing, education, and Partner Services for those who test positive. Through education and regular testing the goal is to see the STD epidemic reduced to eventual nonexistence.
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 CDC2Â 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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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
Ybor Youth Clinic is a non-profit organization whose goal is to improve the health of its clients by providing affordable and quality health-care services to everyone in need. The facility’s medical staff dedicates its time to address the medical needs of underserved youth in the community. The personnel collaborates with local community organizations to provide free HIV tests to the youth.
Founded in 1977, Suncoast Community Health Centers is a community-based non-profit organization whose aim is to improve the health of all community members. The agency has a clinic located in Plant City, and it has physicians who ensure that all patients receive equal services and have access to affordable and quality health-care services. Additionally, physicians provide STD testing services compassionately and in a respectful and friendly environment.
Lakeland Health Center of Lakeland, FL, is a health center whose goal is to offer access to affordable and comprehensive reproductive health care and medically accurate health information. The clinic's physicians provide STD testing services and strive to promote equality in health provision, confidentiality, and dignity. Other health-care services that doctors are proficient in providing include family planning, abortion care, and emergency contraceptive services.
Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is a public health clinic that aims at protecting and improving the health of all Florida county residents. The department’s medical team collaborates with communities to achieve common health goals and solve medical problems. Moreover, physicians offer STD services compassionately and confidentially.
Founded in 1941, Watson Clinic Urgent Care is a walk-in clinic that aims at providing medical care when you need it. The clinic’s medical team treats minor illnesses, handles emergencies, and takes care of accident victims who require immediate medical attention. The facility is fully staffed with board-certified specialists who offer onsite STD services and other diagnostic tests. Additionally, the clinic has a diverse range of specialists who may serve all your emotional, physical, and behavioral needs.
Sunshine Urgent Care is a health facility that offers comprehensive medical services to patients with minor illnesses and injuries. The clinic’s medical team strives to put each clients' needs first and constantly improve on the quality of health delivery. Clients may get STD screening and treatment services since the clinic has an on-site laboratory that facilitates fast diagnostic blood testing, urinalysis, or common swab testing.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
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.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
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.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
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.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
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.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Description: Social Service Organization.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free Hepatitis A & B vaccines to adults who are either at risk for the disease or complications due to other chronic liver diseases.
Sliding fee scale for some services. Ryan White clients should call for appointment. HIV Program: Tues., 8am-5pm. Appointments required for some services, others are available to walk-ins
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Services for the general public. STD testing also for men
Description: Need to enroll as a patient.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
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.
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. Please call for Hepatitis testing and vaccine information. Free Hepatitis A & B vaccines to adults who are either at risk for the disease or complications due to other chronic liver diseases. Free condoms available.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: STD and HIV Testing for women. Mon-Fri Closed from 12pm-1pm
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Description: Community Based Organization. Last test conducted at 3:30pm
Description: On Tuesdays limited medical services after 5pm
Description: Community Based Organization.
The Polk County and Lakeland city health departments state transmitted diseases reported annually is rising.
As of 2015 the number of Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Infectious Syphilis cases reported in the county surpassed state averages.
While health department officials expected to see high Chlamydia rates in teens and young women, they were not prepared for the number of men that test positive for Gonorrhea. Over the last ten years the percent of males ages 15 to 24 that contract Gonorrhea has more than doubled. Older men are also testing positive for HIV/AIDS and Syphilis with alarming frequency.
Teens and young adults continue to be among those with the highest risk for contracting a sexually transmitted disease, but statistics indicate that this is changing. Men over the age of 25 are seeing an increase in their risk for contracting STDs, especially infectious Syphilis and HIV/AIDS. This is particularly worrisome for health officials that previously thought that these two STDs were under control.
Even though the rates of infection for sexually transmitted diseases are up across the county, there is still some good news. Older women are testing positive less often for all STDs, which indicates awareness and education are helping. Some of the statistics that show there is still a problem with STDs in the community include,
Physicians offer free HIV tests to youth aged 13 to 24 regardless of sexual orientation, ethnicity, or gender.
Ybor Youth Clinic has a crisis center that is staffed with skilled counselors who offer on-site services to young people with mental health concerns. Additionally, the clinic has a Youth Outreach Program that offers HIV testing and treatment services tailored to meet the medical needs of homeless youth aged 18–24.
1315 E 7th Ave STE 104, Tampa, FL 33605, USA
Low-cost STD testing services are available to all clients irrespective of race, marital status, or ability to pay. The medical team accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and other insurance plan payments, and sliding fee payment is available to self-pay people who qualify.
Each physician provides exceptional care to every patient, and a majority of the staff is bilingual. Also, transport services to and from a doctor’s appointment are available to patients who qualify. Additionally, women may access free pregnancy tests.
801 E Baker St, Plant City, FL 33563, USA
Everyone may access low-priced STD services regardless of income status, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender. Additionally, a sliding fee scale is available to self-pay clients who meet the facility’s requirements, and physicians may bill some medical insurance providers.
Lakeland Health Center of Lakeland, FL, has bilingual physicians who offer STD services in English and Spanish. Individuals who identify as LGBTQ may access hormone replacement therapy services and the personnel works respectfully while discharging medical care. Moreover, clients at risk of contracting HIV may receive PrEP and PEP as preventatives.
2250 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803, USA
The staff offers low-cost STD testing services to every client, whether you’re a county resident or visitor. Additionally, a sliding fee scale is available and is based on the clinics' guidelines, and you may use self-payment means or your insurance policy to pay medical bills.
Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has an STD Program that aims to reduce the number of new STD cases and prevent disease-related complications through early disease identification, sexual health education, and timely treatment. Additionally, an HIV Prevention Program is available, and it educates patients on HIV prevention and links HIV positive patients with support and care.
1105 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Physicians offer STD services at a low cost to all clients, and uninsured clients may qualify to pay at a discount depending on income level and family size. Also, insured clients may call the facility to inquire if your insurance policy can cater to your medical bills. However, individuals aged 2 to 17 years ought to be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the clinic visit.
The facility’s medical team is on-call around the clock to provide specialty care and emergency services should the need arise. Also, you’ll receive discreet STD services, and the health center is conveniently open every day.
1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805, USA
First-time clients may have to fill out a patient’s form, and every person may access low-cost STD testing services. Additionally, the medical team may avail a discounted payment rate for self-pay clients and also caters to those who have insurance.
Sunshine Urgent Care is conveniently located in Lakewood to serve the community and surrounding regions. Moreover, the facility has a patient portal that enables patients to have easy access to medical records, book online appointments, and get prescriptions for medication.
3305 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland, FL 33812, USA
Even though studies are showing states that require their public schools to offer comprehensive sex education classes are seeing a decrease in STD rates, Florida still actively promotes abstinence and the benefits of “monogamous heterosexual marriage”. Referred to as “abstinence plus”, critics are citing this as one of the main contributing factors to the rising STD rate in teens.
As long as sex education is limited in city schools, the STD rate in teens will continue to rise.
Regular Herpes testing in Lakeland is the best way to prevent the contagious virus from spreading through local high schools. Regular HIV testing in Lakeland is important for everyone’s continued good health.
There are several factors affecting the STD rates in this bedroom community. It’s close proximity to Tampa is one contributing factor, especially among younger adults that frequently spend time in the city. It’s not hard to forget how easy it is to spread and contract STDs, when you are enjoying yourself at one of the city’s “happening” clubs.
An increase in illicit drug use among older adults is thought to be partially responsible for the sudden and dramatic rise in new HIV and Syphilis infections. Adults over the age of 50 are also staying sexually active longer, and this is also increasing their risk for contracting an STD.
There is no denying that if you want to protect yourself from the spread of STDs is to be tested regularly. HIV clinics and mobile testing centers are 2 options, but not your only ones. STI clinics can give you results, sometimes in one day, and it’s private and affordable.
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.
