With STD Rates Rising Free STD Testing in Orange County Is Essential

STI/STD testing services in Orange County

Reports of sharp increases in California’s STD rates have been commonplace in recent years. As the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers has been committed to tackling this issue by offering STD testing services at our Irvine medical clinic. LGBTQ+ people can now get tested in a friendly environment where safety, privacy and sexual health are prioritized.

Free STD Testing Service Available for LGBTQ+ People

Radiant Health Centers provides same-day STD testing free of charge to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. Patients without insurance can access free STD, HIV and hepatitis C testing, while those with insurance will need to share their information with the clinic.

At Radiant Health Centers, while STD testing is not a new service, today it’s more important than ever. It was less than 12 months ago that Governor Newsom signed a bill into law that promised greater STI testing and treatment. The push to improve sexual health outcomes came about after California’s STD rates were said to have reached “crisis levels.”

Syphilis in particular was singled out, with rates in California rising 74% between 2015 and 2019. But within the LGBTQ+ community, all STDs and HIV are a concern due to disproportionately high rates. The CDC identified young gay and bisexual males as being at risk, with social stigma and mental health issues playing a role in risky sexual behavior and a reluctance to seek medical assistance.

Types of STDs Impacting LGTBQ+ People in Orange County

A free STD test at Radiant Health Centers will screen for a range of infections – you can view our STD types infographic for a closer look. And this screening is crucial, as STD rates have been increasing for various STD types. For example, between 2009 and 2019 the rate of gonorrhea in Orange County went from 23.9 cases per 100,000 population to 126.4 per 100,000 population.

Similarly, chlamydia rates per 100,000 population rose from 251 to 442.7 during the same period. For the prevention of ongoing health issues, it’s important that STD testing and treatment combat these stark increases – and these goals also apply to HIV and hepatitis C. Note that while hepatitis C is not actually an STD, it’s often assumed to be one as screening for hep-C is included during STI/STD testing.

Where Can I Get Free STD Testing?

Testing is conducted at our Irvine medical clinic with full confidentiality. Tests are performed in person, while follow-up appointments or treatment could possibly be accomplished through our LGBTQ+ telehealth services.

Access Free STD Treatment and Testing in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides free STD, HIV and hepatitis testing services at our medical clinic in Irvine. Our expert team can also assist patients with counseling, family planning and other key medical services. For medical inquiries or STD testing, please call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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Orange County LGBTQ+ Youth Facing Mental Health Disparities

Irvine mental health issues facing LGBTQ+ youth

LGBTQ+ youth in Orange County are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges. As Radiant Health Centers prepares to launch their new LGBTQ+ Youth & Mentorship program, it’s a good time to reflect on the challenges many young people in the community face each day.

Sadly, social stigma, discrimination and judgment about identities are frequent sources of stress during the pivotal adolescent years. And now more than ever, it’s important to raise awareness of these issues and deliver comprehensive LGBTQ+ youth services.

Showing Support for LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health in Orange County

As the largest LGBTQ+ healthcare provider in Orange County, we are constantly reminded of the struggles facing young people. Many LGBTQ+ youth lack a support system to guide them towards adulthood. Consequently, individuals are left to navigate home, school, healthcare and workplace environments that are often less than accommodating of their needs.

At Radiant Health Centers, we are committed to providing physical, mental and social services to the most vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth. With this commitment in mind during our annual celebration of Pride Month, we are asking for donations to support our LGBTQ+ Youth & Mentorship program. The first $25,000 raised by July 31st will be matched dollar-for-dollar thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.

How Do Mental Health Issues Impact LGBTQ+ Youth?

Stress, anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and other mental health disorders impact Orange County LGBTQ+ youth. Unfortunately, these issues often have a cumulative effect that leads to other health issues. Statistics show that our LGBTQ+ youth have disproportionately high rates of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, and are also more likely to attempt suicide.

According to a survey by The Trevor Project, 42% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide during the last year. In addition, 94% of respondents also reported that recent politics had negatively impacted their mental health. By contrast, they reported that having access to spaces that affirmed their sexual orientation led to lower rates of attempted suicide.

Expanding Mental Health Programs for Orange County’s LGBTQ+ Youth

Access to uplifting spaces is one of the initiatives introduced with the latest youth programs that are coming to Radiant Health Centers. A drop-in center will provide a place for LGBTQ+ transitional-aged youth (ages 13 to 25), one that is designed specifically to address their needs. Similarly, LGBTQ+ counseling groups, mentorship and sexual health education will provide solid foundations for individuals as they develop into adulthood. Thankfully, as awareness is raised on the mental health struggles of LGBTQ+ youth, more help and guidance can reduce inequalities and create a better future for young people in Orange County.

Supporting the LGBTQ+ Youth in Orange County

At Radiant Health Centers we provide counseling, support and medical services to the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. If you need help with HIV testing and treatment, STI testing, mental health counseling and other programs, reach out to our Irvine clinic. For assistance, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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