Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
Named in honor of the American Revolutionary War hero, Brigadier General Francis Marion, Marion, NC, is a city and the county seat of McDowell County.
In 2022, the number of HIV cases in McDowell County stood at 29. In the previous year, reported new HIV diagnoses were 26. The 145 Chlamydia incidences seen at the year-end of 2018 at a prevalence rate of 318.9 per 100,000 people escalated to 169 in 2019 at a relatively higher rate of 369.4 per 100,000 residents.
Also, Gonorrhea occurrences rose from 70 at a rate of 154.0 in 2018 to 82 in 2019 at an infection rate of 179.2 per 100,000 population. Conversely, the four Primary and Secondary Syphilis infections transmitted at a rate of 8.8 per 100,000 individuals in 2018 dropped to three in 2019 at a rate of 6.6.
The Mcdowell County Health Department conducts confidential disease reporting to assure HIV/STD patients of the confidentiality of their information. On the same, it ensures that only certified reference laboratories in the county provide testing and reporting of contacts.
To achieve low STD and HIV cases in the county, it has joined forces with community members and partner agencies to offer several health promotion programs, including school-based programs.
Most hospitals within and around Marion, NC, are equipped with the latest medical technologies, which enable them to conduct rapid HIV/STD tests. Some clinics include Planned Parenthood - Asheville Health Center, Mission Health Center Sugar Hill, and Lake James Urgent Care.
Besides the long waiting time at some free STD testing centers in the city, a lack of comprehensive tests is another issue.
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
Founded in 1986, The Western North Carolina AIDS Project provides medical and support services to minimize HIV/Hepatitis C infections throughout Maroon, NC. Its clinicians offer HIV/Syphilis/Hepatitis C testing, HIV prevention, and case management. To test for HIV, the clinicians analyze blood samples they obtain using finger sticks, and the results come out after 20 minutes. The OraQuick Rapid Hepatitis C test also produces results in 20 minutes​.
ALFA downtown - Steve's Place is a satellite location of AIDS Leadership Foothills Area Alliance, Inc. that provides comprehensive STD and HIV prevention services to individuals in Hickory, NC, and the nearby towns. Its infectious disease specialists deliver rapid HIV tests which produce results using a drop of blood taken from a finger stick, and results are ready in 20 minutes. They also draw blood to run Syphilis and Hepatitis C tests, and you should expect your results within 2 weeks. You can also receive HIV care and case management and screening and treatment for other STIs.
Western North Carolina Community Health Services, Inc. delivers comprehensive medical care solutions to help address health disparities among Marion, NC, residents and promote disease prevention. Its medical practitioners offer LGBTQ+ health, dental and behavioral healthcare, and immunizations. You can also receive women’s health services, including STI testing, ultrasounds, and postpartum care.
Avery County Health Department safeguards and improves the health of individuals and communities in Avery County and the surrounding cities, including Marion, NC, through disease prevention, education, and environmental protection. Physicians deliver comprehensive family planning services such as HIV screening and counseling and STD testing and treatment, pap smears, pregnancy tests, and birth control. You can also receive immunization and maternal health care.
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: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. STD Clinic provides services to anyone who may have, or suspects they have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). This clinic offers diagnosis and treatment. Parental consent is not required and results are confidential. Free condoms available.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available.
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: Hospital.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: AIDS Service Organization. Rapid Testing for HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis. Linkage to PrEP and HCV Treatment with payment assistance available. Medical case management also a service. HIV/Hep C testing by appointment only
Description: Services include Transgender Health Program; Pre-exposure prophylaxis and PEP services. Sliding fee scale for low income, otherwise services provided regardless of ability to pay.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department,
Description: Social Service Organization. You are welcome to walk in any time the Health Center is open to make an appointment or see if there is a same day appointment available
Individuals from diverse backgrounds can access rapid HIV/STD testing by appointment and at no fee. Case management services are available to PLWHA in the 18 county region provided on the clinic's website.
The Western North Carolina AIDS Project’s case managers coordinate transportation to medical appointments and offer food and emergency financial assistance to PLWHA in need. The clinic has a Syringe Services Program and operates a free mobile unit to deliver community screenings and syringe disposal and supply services to IDUs, helping them prevent HIV/STD contractions. The onsite pharmacy offers prescription deliveries and provides low-cost to free HIV medications, courtesy of its Prescription Assistance Programs.
554 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803, USA
You don’t need insurance or an identification card to access HIV and STD testing. Testing services are available by appointment or walk-in basis, and you won't pay for the care you get.
ALFA downtown - Steve's Place has a well-trained Counselor, Testing, and Referral team that assists newly diagnosed HIV patients connect to care and support programs at the main clinic. PLWHA can access case management services such as food pantry items and groceries, emergency financial assistance for utilities, and HIV medication assistance. IDUs can get syringe access services, including injection supplies, condoms, HIV/Hepatitis C testing, and safer drug use education.
211 NC-127, Hickory, NC 28602, USA
STD services are available at a fee to women’s health patients, and you may be eligible for the sliding fee program based on your family size plus income. Individuals who qualify for the program receive discounts for 12 months. The clinicians accept private and public health plans. Self-pay individuals can use cash or credit/debit cards to pay.
You can download the new patient enrollment form on the website. Western North Carolina Community Health Services, Inc. coordinates telehealth services to help individuals access care remotely. The staff encourages patients to come with their adult friends, family, or relationship partners to their appointment. You can receive low-cost STD services through the Sliding Fee Discount Program.
257 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
To receive STD services, nurse practitioners will charge you a sliding scale fee based on your family size and income. Minors are also eligible for care, and the staff bills them based on their income. Although physicians encourage parental consent, clients below 18 don’t need parental consent to access care.
Avery County Health Department has a sufficient supply of free condoms at all dispensation points on the premises. It has an onsite laboratory to reduce processing time for test results. Services are available to anyone regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or sexual preference.
2222 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro, NC 27205, USA
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.
