Preferred Location: 979 East 3rd Street, Ste 127 Chattanooga,TN 37403 Chattanooga Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 979 East 3rd Street, Ste 127 Chattanooga,TN 37403 Chattanooga Change Location
Reported STD cases saw an increase of 26% in the Chattanooga area among teens and young adults. Last year, Chattanooga alone had 277 new AIDS cases. In 2016, the state of Tennessee saw 714 new cases of HIV.
Rates of gonorrhea in Hamilton County increased from 442 in 2010 to a whopping 749 in 2016; chlamydia cases in the county rose from 1,537 in 2010 to 2,072 in 2016; and rates of primary and secondary syphilis increased from 10 cases in 2010 to an alarming 29 cases in 2016. As the least transmitted among the most common sexually transmitted infections, syphilis prevalence can be seen as a good general indicator of how bad the STD epidemic currently is.
How do you protect your health? Through regular testing and preventative measures.
Chattanooga offers many public and private std testing locations throughout the city with services and opportunities for furthering your knowledge to protect yourself and your partner.
From the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department locations throughout the city to Chattanooga CARES on East 3rd Street, it’s easy to find a testing center that offers the services you want. Other services are also being offered to lower the rate of STD transmission, like the Chattanooga CARES needle exchange program.
Free STD testing is another service the city and county offer, however it is not guaranteed that you will be able to speak to a doctor if you have any questions.
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.
The Choice Health Network is taking steps to lower HIV numbers in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department (Homeless Health Care Center) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in among the homeless. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Erlanger Health System (Southside Community Health Center) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Erlanger Health System (Dodson Avenue Community Health Center) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Primary Healthcare Centers (Rossville Clinic at Fairview) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
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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. Must be homeless. On Wednesday close for 2pm-3:30pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: AIDS Service Organization. HIV positive for medical care, everyone welcome to free Rapid HIV testing and counseling services. Please note: the clinic is closed daily from 12pm-12:30pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Need to register.
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Description: Community Based Organization. HIV & HEP C Testing Services Only Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 8:00am – 11:15am
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: Alternating Mondays hours are 8am-6pm
Description: AIDS Service Organization.
Description: Need to register as a patient.
Description: Accept most insurances and have cash pay options. Multiple sites -- Saturday Hours available at 2 main locations -- see the website or call 423-894-0432
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Appointments encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome on a first-come first-served basis. Walk-ins are encouraged to arrive at least one hour before closing times. Patients with or without insurance are welcome. Services are provided on a sliding scale and payment plans are available for those in need.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Top STD Testing Locations in Chattanooga, TN
Primary Item (H2)Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
1212 McCallie Ave #150, Chattanooga, TN 37404, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department (Homeless Health Care Center) is working with the homeless to handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
730 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
921 E 3rd St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Erlanger Health System (Southside Community Health Center) might be an urgent care clinic but they also handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
3800 Tennessee Ave #124, Chattanooga, TN 37409, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Erlanger Health System (Dodson Avenue Community Health Center) might be an urgent care clinic but they also handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
1200 Dodson Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37406, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
205 N Jenkins Rd, Rossville, GA 30741, USA
If you’re on E. 3rd St. look for the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Dept. Sec. III office. It’s on the 1st floor of the building. Hours have recently changed, so be aware of that. They don’t always have time for you if you just come in, so call first. Testing for all transmittable diseases is done here, and it is usually inexpensive or free. If you do come in for lab work, it will be sent elsewhere, and it can take several days before you hear what the results are.
Rapid Hepatitis C testing can be a lifesaver for those that have unknowingly have the virus for years. The Chattanooga Cares Center can provide this test, along with conventional screening for Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Chlamydia. They have several facilities in Chattanooga, along with mobile units. To find out if they will be by you, simple look them up. A tentative schedule is available on their website or you can dial one of their offices.
Choice Health Network, McCallie Ave., is open seven days a week into the evening hours. Insurance is accepted, which makes it extremely affordable. However, if you don’t the fees can be high. You can pick from different testing options, and this can make it a little less expensive. Physicians are onsite if you need an explanation concerning your results.
Over on E. 37th St. you’ll see the Southside Community Health Center. Lines out the door can occur, so plan accordingly. The building is small and doesn’t have the space to meet the neighborhood’s needs, but the staff is always ready to help. Mondays they are open late, but otherwise they close at the start of rush hour.
If you decide to ride the trolley down the mountain, don’t be surprised to see STI clinics across the state line. Most accept last minute visitors, and residency is rarely a problem.
When you’re getting checked for transmittable sexual diseases, ask about HIV testing. It just makes sense to take care of everything at once.
Chattanooga Cares not only provides HIV testing, they also have a free pill that is thought to help prevent the virus. Their goal is to help anyone effected by AIDS and HIV. On East 3rd St., their compassionate team is accepting appointments and unexpected visitors. This is only to be expected since they are a Ryan White clinic.
Channels of Love is also on McCallie Ave, not too far from Choice Health. This ministry seeks to help those suffering from HIV and/or AIDS, and their families. The cost of testing is what you can afford to donate to their efforts. Parking is limited, and hours aren’t set, this can be inconvenient to many.
The county isn’t ignoring HIV and the risks it presents. At their center on E. 3rd St. they will test for the autoimmune virus. Rapid tests are available, though this might change the cost. Standard testing, however, can be “no-charge” for some individuals. Parking at the garage, behind the center, is also free. Just have the front desk validate your receipt.
The next time you’re exploring Rock City, look for the Primary Healthcare Center on Suggs St. They’re open later in the evenings than a few others, though they do not see clients on the weekends. Conventional tests and vaccines are a few of the services they provide to people on both sides of Lookout Mountain. What they do not have are rapid tests so know that it could take up to 2 weeks to find out if you are positive.
The one thing you might’ve noticed is that there seems to be a wait or expense with these public places. Private HIV tests eliminate all of these, and you can remain anonymous without leaving the state.
When it comes to learning about sexual health, abstinence is “king”. This is even students are sexually active.
Even though the school system can’t help, it’s not completely left up to the parents to ensure that their children are responsible about their sexuality. Many of the same clinics that provide testing and family health services also have the resources you are looking for. In some cases, this can include condoms and other types of prophylactics.
You might have noticed that Planned Parenthood doesn’t have an office in Chattanooga. This is a shame, but the RWF (Ryan White Foundation) is trying to fill their place. Classes, programs and brochures are held and handed out almost every day. There are also the mobile testing units that show up in various neighborhoods.
Channels of Love’s regularly ministers to those affect by HIV and AIDS. Chattanooga Cares even holds walks and seminars designed to bring about education and awareness. Even though you might not find your information in traditional places, there are plenty of others hoping that you will listen to what they have to say.
You can escape to the aquarium or the Hunter Museum of American Art, but this doesn’t change the fact that STIs are here. You can pretend that it’s not a big deal or that you’ll never get one, but that’s how Chattanooga ended up on the map for STDs.
There’s nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Most screenings only require a urine or small blood sample. It’s over before you know it, and depending on where you go you can be back on the trolley before the tourist rush begins.
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.