Preferred Location: 4817-1 Milton Street Cape Coral,FL 33904 Caloosahatchee Change location
Preferred Location: 4817-1 Milton Street Cape Coral,FL 33904 Caloosahatchee Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 4817-1 Milton Street Cape Coral,FL 33904 Caloosahatchee Change Location
Southwest Florida health officials are worried about the rising STD rates, especially syphilis. The disease was under control in the US a short decade ago, but it made a comeback in recent years, mostly due to a decrease in condom use.
Dating apps have also contributed to the rise in STI rates, as people meet others for sex without find out much about them, including their sexual health status.
In 2015, there were 2,035 people living with HIV or AIDS in Lee County, with a prevalence rate of 334 per 100K people, under Florida’s rate of 615. But health officials believe there are still people out there who haven’t been tested, and social stigma prevents many of them from coming into the clinics. But medical professionals are only there to help you and treatment is available.
In 2017, 2,841 people in Lee County were diagnosed with chlamydia, at a rate of 405.4. The gonorrhea and infectious syphilis rates were 110 and 6.
There are more STD-testing clinics across the river in Fort Myers than in Cape Coral. Planned Parenthood is located in the College Plaza Shopping Center. They test for STIs and treat all except HIV, and the fee is on a sliding scale.
Some of the CVS MinuteClinics provide basic screenings. Verity Medical Clinic on Salrose Ln also provides STD testing. Keep an eye on the community calendar, especially around STD Awareness Month. You may be able to find free STD testing opportunities.
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
The McGregor Clinic is a nonprofit program that provides an integrated approach to health care for their HIV and AIDS positive clients. Their mission is to put clients first and provide primary medical care for those living with the virus.
They have both rapid and conventional HIV tests, it is your choice which one you take. The main difference is the amount of time it takes for you to learn if you are positive or not for the virus.
For over 30 years, AIDS Healthcare Foundation has been providing cutting-edge medicine to their patients, regardless if they can pay or not. They provide advanced care for their patients living with HIV. The center also gives patients easy access to specialists, medications, and the services they need to be healthy and happy.
The Verity Medical Clinic is working to educate teens and young adults. They want them to know how to take care of the sexual and reproductive health. While many of their clients are under 30, this does not mean that all ages aren't welcome.
Along with providing screenings for STIs, they also offer free pregnancy tests.
Planned Parenthood has already celebrated its' 100th anniversary of providing exceptional sexual health care to everyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. They have long been leaders in research and continue to do so to this day.
They do have rapid HIV testing, so you won't have to wait long. Once your results are in, a physician will be in to see you.
The county's Department of Health has over 200 employees all dedicated to working to assure the health and safety of residents. They provide several health services, one of which are screenings for sexually transmitted infections.
The main clinic, here on Michigan Ave, has rapid HIV testing. This dramatically reduces the time it takes for results from days to minutes.
Cape Coral Urgent Care is working to give residents another place to go for none serious health problems, other than the emergency room. They have several physicians and other medical personnel, though your test will most likely be performed by a clinician.
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days
15 min test
Book Online
Doctor Prescription (if needed)
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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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
Hours
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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
Hours
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.
Result: 1-2 business days 15 min test Book Online Doctor Prescription (if needed)
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Hours
Description: Community Based Organization. Testing appointments available Mon.-Thurs., 9am-4pm; Fri., 9am-11am
Hours
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
Hours
Description: Social Service Organization.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Hours
Hours
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
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Located on the Gulf of Mexico many residents find it difficult to accept the fact that their planned community is experiencing a health epidemic.
In the past twenty years reported STDs has continued to climb each year, and health officials are worried that this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Particularly at risk are teens and young adults. Even though some of these numbers were expected to be high, health officials were still surprised that these sexually transmitted diseases were so prevalent in the area’s youth.
While young women presented the high risk of contracting Chlamydia, the recent statistics also show that the number of HIV infections is also on the rise, and in recent years the county has had the dubious distinction of ranking 16th in the state. Syphilis diagnoses are also increasing in frequency, especially among men. As these numbers continue to rise, health officials continue to stress the importance of being checked regularly for all sexually transmitted diseases.
Testing is free, regardless of who you are. The staff here will not ask any questions, though you may have to speak with a counselor if it turns out you are positive.
According to state law anyone 14 and up can come in. The clinic does not turn minors away.
The McGregor Clinic has been providing healthcare to HIV positive residents for over twenty years. Along with providing the necessary treatment, they also have a food pantry and can even help with clothing. They understand that all you need to concentrate on is managing your diagnosis.
All services are free, regardless of income, gender or sexual orientation.
3487 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA
Are you ready to learn your status regarding HIV? Just come in, when the clinic is open. Wait times are usually minimal, except in the early afternoons. They seem to be at their busiest then.
There is never a charge for the test, even if you have the rapid one. You only need to be 14 and you don't have to worry about your parents finding out you were here.
AHF has over 1 million patients in our care across the world. They provide advanced medical care that is designed specifically for clients with the virus. They keep track of all the latest developments in HIV medical care. They also participate in several research studies.
Not only are they highly qualified to care for you, all of their services are free if you cannot afford to pay.
2231 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901, USA
When it is time to get tested the first thing you need to do is call for an appointment. If you are worried about possible high costs of tests and exams, don't be. The clinic works to keep all their services affordable to basically everyone.
Reviews from their patients that come in for testing are mainly favorable. They discuss the speed and efficiency of the clinic, along with the supportive and compassionate staff. If you are in the area and need hassle free screening, this might be a good option. Just remember, they do not provide treatment.
8890 Salrose Ln, Fort Myers, FL 33912, USA
STD testing and vaccinations are available either by walking in or booking a visit in advanced. It is best to call first, if you walk in and the clinic is busy you might be asked to come back the next day. Another reason to call first is to inquire about costs. You can also ask about their reduced fees. This needs to be done before you come in.
This is one of the most recognizable names when it comes to sexual and reproductive health. You know that you will be treated with respect and are in the hands of qualified medical personnel.
The hours at this location vary day to day. They are open later on Tuesdays and for a few hours on Saturdays. You should know that Saturdays are busy so if you want to come in, call ahead.
8595 College Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919, USA
It is best to call the appointment line. The clinic is usually filled to capacity due to the number of varying services they provide.
Some patients are concerned about paying their bills. Testing is not free and neither is treatment. If this applies to you, ask about their financial programs. The county has several in place to help ensure that all residents have access to health care.
This is the main office for the county's health department clinic. They are easy to find on Michigan Ave. They are actually not to far from the city's technical college. For those without transportation, it might be a little hard getting here. It is about 10 miles away.
3920 Michigan Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916, USA
This is a walk-in clinic for all their services. You can drop by anytime they are open. You might want to avoid afternoons and early Saturday mornings. These tend to be some of their busiest times.
Payment is due before you leave. If you are not able to make the full payment, you can arrange to settle your bill in installments.
The Cape Coral Urgent Care Center is a good place to go for testing, if you don't mind waiting. Very rarely will you be seen as soon as you come in, especially on Saturdays. They also charge full fees for their services, which might be a disadvantage for those without insurance.
811 Del Prado Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33990, USA
As the number of sexually transmitted diseases continues to climb, parents and school officials are still continuing to clash over the education programs that are available for students. While students were required to participate in sexual education programs in order to graduate, changes made in recent years has now made these classes an option students can take if they want. During the 2008-2009 school year officials changed the requirements for graduation making it possible for students to replace these important health classes with physical education instead.
While allowing students to substitute sex education classes for gym has helped lower the obesity rate in teens, it is doing very little to protect them from the STDs. The majority of students are not fully aware of how sexually transmitted infections are spread which is putting them and the rest of the community at risk.
One of the reasons this ocean side city is seeing such high numbers of sexually transmitted diseases is due to its diverse population. The city is proud of its diverse demographical makeup, but this is also making it difficult for health officials to stress the importance of regular testing.
Many older residents simply do understand the risk, even though they are staying sexually active later in life. It is also not uncommon for retirees to not be tested simply because many of their care givers also do not understand that they could be at risk.
The conservative attitude toward sex and education classes is also contributing to the problem. Since many teens and their parents do not understand how STDs are spread or that it is possible to contract one without engaging in intercourse, many do not feel that they need to be tested.
Other factors contributing to the high number of STIs reported each year includes the large number of tourists who come for the beautiful beaches and weather. Many of the visitors to the area are already infected with a STD, and end up unknowingly passing it to permanent residents.
Long lines at the few testing centers in the area often makes it inconvenient for residents to get screened regularly, and many of the area’s lower income families find it difficult to pay for this important health test.
Before you decide to spend the day at the beach it is important to stop and think about your sexual health. With the number of reported STDs continuing to rise more residents are finding that they are probably at risk. There are community centers that offer screenings, but the long lines are causing many residents to put off this important test. STI clinics offer fast and private services, and you’ll love getting your results discreetly.
http://www.news-press.com/story/news/local/2015/06/27/rate-hiv-infection-remains-high-southwest-florida/29409761/
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: 4817-1 Milton Street Cape Coral,FL 33904 Caloosahatchee Change Location
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