Radiant Health Centers’ media coverage through the years, from events to client updates, learn more about us here.

How You Can Support LGBTQ+ Health Equity in Orange County

Appeal for medical care donations

As we near the end of 2022, Radiant Health Centers is requesting your support in our Year End appeal. As the best-known LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, we are committed to delivering world-class healthcare services to the most vulnerable people in the community. All of this is made possible with the help of our many donors and supporters who continue to give generously to enable health equity and stigma-free care.

Why Supporting LGBTQ+ Medical and Mental Health Services Matters

Access to safe, compassionate and reliable medical and mental health services still remains a challenge for many LGBTQ+ people. Patients frequently struggle to get the care they need due to ongoing discrimination, lack of awareness and judgment from healthcare professionals.

With primary care, HIV treatments and mental health counseling being such vital services for the LGBTQ+ community, any inaccessibility will inevitably lead to poor health outcomes.

What Is the Year End Appeal?

Radiant Health Centers’ Year End Appeal plays a crucial role in broadening access to key medical services. With the help of donors we can continue to offer HIV testing and treatment, STD testing, youth programs, hormone replacement therapy and telehealth to Orange County’s LGBTQ+ community. And thanks to the support of an anonymous donor, the first $50,000 raised by December 31st will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

In our continued drive to deliver healthcare equity, we are accelerating the expansion of our medical clinic and mental health services. Every donation will help Orange County patients receive stigma-free care from professionals with an understanding of the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community. As always, we remain committed to assisting individuals as they seek to find an LGBTQ-friendly healthcare home in Orange County.

Expanding Our LGBTQ+ Medical Services

The last year has seen significant growth at Radiant Health Centers and the coming year will bring even more expansion. We recently welcomed our new Medical Director, Dr. Duy Nguyen, and his expertise will allow us to offer more comprehensive services to our patients. Specializing in mental health, transgender care, hormone therapy, hepatitis C treatment, PreP and harm reduction therapy, Dr. Nguyen brings vast experience in crucial areas of importance for so many of our clients.

Donating to Radiant Health Centers

With your generosity, we can reach more people with compassionate, high-quality medical and mental health services. And through our continued expansion, we take more steps towards the much-needed goal of healthcare equity for the LGBTQ+ community. Please donate to support Radiant Health Centers today.

Contact Our Irvine-Based LGBTQ+ Medical Center

Thanks to the support of our donors, Radiant Health Centers continues to deliver safe and confidential healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community. Please consider making a donation before the end of 2022. To access HIV testing and treatment, STD testing, primary care and counseling services, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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Radiant Health Centers 2021–2022 Annual Report Has Arrived

Irvine-based medical center report

Radiant Health Centers strives to deliver safe, compassionate and inclusive medical care to the Orange County LGBTQ+ community. Each year, we highlight our continued push to offer dependable healthcare by releasing our annual reports. The latest 2021–2022 report gives a clear insight into our progress as an organization and shares some of the hard work contributed by those who continue to give selflessly to the community.

Welcoming Our New Medical Director

One of the most exciting developments this year was the hiring of our new Medical Director, Dr. Duy Nguyen. As a physician with a passion for LGBTQ+ medical care, Dr. Nguyen will be a valuable asset in our continued treatment efforts for mental health issues, PrEP and hepatitis C services. Dr. Nguyen specializes in hormone replacement therapy, and his expertise will enable us to deliver the very best transgender care.

Launching the Youth and Mentorship Program

The launch of the Youth and Mentorship Program is another of our most important developments. This program assists people ages 13–26 as they move into adulthood – and face many under-appreciated challenges. We have previously discussed the fact that Orange County LGBTQ+ youth face mental health disparities. With this new program, participants can access mental health counseling, sexual health advice, mentorship and other guidance that will benefit their ongoing development.

Serving the LGBTQ+ Community of Orange County

Also highlighted in the report is the sizable impact of the work performed at Radiant Health Centers. In total we served 1,260 patients through the medical clinic, and 2,980 individuals accessed support services. In addition, 6,649 people were reached as part of our education and outreach work. With these numbers rising from the previous year, our Radiant Health Centers team, our supporters, donors and the wider community have risen to the challenge of delivering first-class care to the most vulnerable patients.

Spreading Awareness With LGBTQ+ Events

As always, the Orange County LGBTQ+ community joined together to raise awareness and celebrate the work of people fighting to end the HIV epidemic. Two notable events in the calendar were AIDS Walk Orange County and World AIDS Day Reception.

Supported by Our Generous Sponsors

Of course, the important work carried out at our LGBTQ+ medical clinic, our innovative youth programs – and our many celebratory events – would not be possible without the support of our donors and funders. This year’s list of supporters is extensive, and the annual report shines a light on the organizations and individuals contributing to bettering the lives of LGBTQ+ people in Orange County.

Read the Latest Annual Report From Radiant Health Centers

For a comprehensive look at the statistics and updates from Radiant Health Centers, download the annual report here. We continue to provide LGBTQ+ people in Orange County with the best in primary care, testing services and HIV treatments at our medical center. For general inquiries call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Address Health Disparities During Transgender Awareness Week

Transgender Awareness Week in Orange County

November 13–19 sees the return of the annual Transgender Awareness Week celebrations. As the largest provider of LGBTQ+ primary medical care services in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers is proud to play its part in raising visibility for transgender issues in the community.

As in previous years, the events scheduled for this week present a unique opportunity to educate individuals on the experiences and challenges faced by transgender and gender non-conforming people.

What Is Transgender Awareness Week?

Transgender Awareness Week is a week-long series of events and activities that shine a light on the transgender community. During the celebration, transgender people and allies join together to discuss issues including transitioning, identity, prejudice, discrimination and healthcare access.

Over the years, participants have found many creative and educational outlets to spread awareness of transgender issues. From workshops and gender identity panels to creative expression and movie nights, this week brings various ways for people to engage with the community and its needs.

And with this week fast approaching, we look forward to lively and thought-provoking events that illuminate the incredible progress already made – and the many challenges still faced by the transgender community in Orange County.

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Immediately following Transgender Awareness Week is the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance. Taking place on November 20, this day commemorates the victims of transphobic violence with a vigil.

As with the Transgender Day of Visibility that celebrates the many contributions of transgender, nonbinary and gender non-conforming people, this is another important day in the calendar for Orange County’s LGBTQ+ community.

Addressing Healthcare Disparities Faced by Transgender People

We have previously highlighted transgender barriers to physical and mental healthcare, with mistreatment at the hands of medical providers being an unfortunately common issue. Because transgender people routinely face discrimination, this frequently leads to a reluctance to seek appropriate medical care.

A new report from the National LGBTQ Task Force shows that 19% of study participants have been denied care because they were transgender, while 28% have faced harassment in a medical setting.

At Radiant Health Centers, we are committed to providing a safe, compassionate and informed environment for transgender people. We offer vital primary care services such as screenings, diagnosis and treatment of common health problems, disease management and more.

We also provide targeted treatments to address the needs of many transgender individuals. Our hormone replacement therapy services have helped many people with their transition, and our knowledgeable staff ensures a medical environment free from discrimination and prejudice.

Delivering Medical Services for the LGBTQ+ Community in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers offers HIV testing and treatment, STD testing, primary care, telehealth and many other services for the LGBTQ+ community. We pride ourselves on providing safe, welcoming and inclusive care for patients at our Irvine clinic. For general inquiries, please call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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LGBTQ+ Community Unites for AIDS Walk Orange County

Attendee of AIDS Walk OC in Mile Square Park

On Saturday, October 22, 2022, Radiant Health Centers joined more than 300 attendees for the 36th annual AIDS Walk Orange County. As an LGBTQ+ medical clinic and HIV testing provider in Irvine, we have seen directly the impact of AIDS on the Orange County community. This year’s event was a much-needed opportunity to get together in support of people living with HIV/AIDS, and reflect on those who lost their lives to the virus.

Team Zero attends AIDS Walk Orange County

AIDS Walk Orange County – A Day of Fun, Entertainment and Reflection

Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley was the location for what was billed as a “fun walk,” with people taking part individually, in teams – and in memory of loved ones. Participants were treated to live entertainment by MenAlive, a Fun Zone with games for children and adults, an AIDS quilt memorial and the Makers Market, with crafts, artists and resource vendors.

Participants in AIDS Walk Orange County 2022

The incredible entertainment enjoyed by all was made possible thanks to support from our AIDS Walk OC sponsors – ADP, Gilead, Biktarvy, Descovy, Avita, Hyundai, Kaiser Permanente, Pacific Life, Room & Board, Shopoff Realty Investments and Moca Foundation.

Raising Money for LGBTQ+ Health and Social Services

As ever, the generosity of the community was on display. Together we raised over $117,000 – funds that will prove vital in providing world-class health and social services for the LGBTQ+ community. As part of our collective goal of ending the HIV epidemic and improving health outcomes, the money raised will help thousands across Orange County.

Radiant Health Centers takes part in the 36th annual AIDS Walk

Introducing the Golden Hearts Award

Another highlight of the day was the introduction of the new Golden Hearts Award. The result of a collaboration between Radiant Health Centers and the AIDS Walk OC Committee, the award acknowledges a community member with a longstanding commitment to the thousands of people and their families impacted by HIV in Orange County.

Deborah Reed and Joseph Lavers win Golden Hearts Award

The inaugural winners of the Golden Hearts Award were Deborah Reed and her son Joseph Lavers. Together they have supported the annual event since 1992, raising over $150,000. The family has lost many loved ones to the virus, including Deborah’s brother, Robert Reed, Jr. Throughout the years, their support has proved invaluable to many people living with HIV/AIDS, and the award recognizes their continued efforts.

Golden Hearts Award winners Joseph and Deborah with CEO Phil Yaeger

Building on the Success of AIDS Walk Orange County

Thanks to the work of so many, AIDS Walk OC will help providers deliver LGBTQ+ primary medical care services, HIV treatment and more. And after this year’s success, we hope to see you next time in support of the values of unity, family, love and equality for all.

Orange County’s Leading Provider of HIV Testing and Treatment

Radiant Health Centers provides safe and confidential HIV treatment and testing at our Irvine medical clinic. For these and many other services, including STD testing, counseling and telehealth, contact us today. For general inquiries, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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Orange County Celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month

Irvine LGBTQ+ history month celebrations

October is LGBTQ+ History Month, and a chance to celebrate the community’s many achievements. As Orange County’s largest LGBTQ+ primary medical care services provider, since our founding we have seen firsthand the progress made during the last few decades.

But LGBTQ+ history dates back much longer than that (of course), and is filled with pioneering civil rights struggles and trailblazing figures. For LGBTQ+ History Month throughout October, we are joining with the OC community to celebrate these many achievements.

What Is LGBTQ+ History Month?

LGBTQ+ History Month was founded in 1994 by Missouri history teacher Rodney Wilson as Lesbian and Gay History Month. Created as a way to recognize and celebrate the work of important role models, give greater access to LGBTQ+ history and build communities, the month is now observed in cities across the world. October was chosen as students are in school, and this month also acknowledges National Coming Out Day and the 1979 and 1987 LGBTQ+ marches on Washington.

LGBTQ+ History Month in Orange County

It’s a busy time in the local community that includes the 36th annual AIDS Walk Orange County. LGBTQ+ History Month is a good time to reflect on the work of those who fought for progress.

Orange County has a history of LGBTQ+ activism, with many records and materials curated through the Orange County Historical LGBT Timeline project. The UC Irvine Libraries house this archival collection developed by activist Barbara Muirhead.

These historical records highlight a vibrant and politically active LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. Events such as the Laguna Pride Weekend and Gay Games IV, the 1993 march on Washington and more are thoroughly documented.

How to Support LGBTQ+ History Month

Spreading awareness is at the heart of LGBTQ+ History Month. You can do this by learning about the legacies of some iconic figures in history and sharing their stories across social media. Role models and public representation play a key role in building young people’s self-confidence, and in providing a more inclusive history that is often missing from mainstream conversations. In addition, a donation to an LGBTQ+ cause can go a long way.

Supporting Healthcare During LGBTQ+ History Month

For the LGBTQ+ community, health outcomes is one area where progress has undoubtedly been made. However, for many throughout Orange County, the barriers to reliable, tolerant healthcare services still exist. And as we celebrate the work of the many pioneers who came before us, our LGBTQ+ medical clinic is committed to providing safe, effective services for the local community.

Trusted LGBTQ+ Medical Care and Testing Services in Irvine

Radiant Health Centers is Orange County’s home for LGBTQ+ medical services. We provide HIV testing and treatment, primary medical care, hormone replacement therapy, counseling and more. To reach our medical clinic, please call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment online.

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Find an LGBTQ-Friendly Healthcare Home in Orange County

Healthcare services in Irvine

For close to four decades, Irvine-based Radiant Health Centers has been delivering considerate and comprehensive healthcare services. As the area’s most prominent HIV service provider, our Orange County LGBTQ+ medical clinic remains committed to the ongoing fight to end the AIDS epidemic. In addition, over the years we have expanded to deliver a broad range of services, offering a healthcare home to those who face barriers to accessing primary care.

Find Your Healthcare Home With Radiant Health Centers

Finding a medical provider who understands the needs of LGBTQ+ patients is not always easy. A report from the Center for American Progress identified frequent cases of healthcare discrimination that led to LGBTQ+ people avoiding seeking medical care.

The survey found that 8% of respondents had been refused treatment due to their actual or perceived sexual orientation. Further, 9% of people also reported facing harsh or abusive language from a doctor or medical provider during treatment. We have previously reported on transgender barriers to physical and mental healthcare.

Inclusive Medical Services for the LGBTQ+ Community

At Radiant Health Centers, our goal is to provide access to the services our Orange County patients require. We are the first point of contact for patients experiencing common illnesses, while also helping to manage existing conditions and prevent poor health in the future. And with avoidance of routine health checks leading to increased rates of heart disease, diabetes and depression, easy access to these primary care services is crucial.

Beyond our primary services, we are also a leading provider of HIV and STD testing and treatment, hormone replacement therapy and family planning. Patients receive compassionate and stigma-free care that is delivered by knowledgeable physicians and counselors. And with frequent updates to our services, including the introduction of telehealth and youth programs, we are committed to offering holistic medical care tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.

Welcoming Our New Medical Director

The most notable addition to our clinic for the coming year is the hiring of our new Medical Director, Dr. Duy Duc Nguyen. Dr. Nguyen comes to us from Vista Community Clinic, a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center (FQHC) in La Habra, where he spent the last three years as a family physician caring for patients of all ages. His specialty care included LGBTQ+ mental health, transgender care and hormone therapy, hepatitis C treatment, PreP and harm reduction therapy.

Radiant Health Centers is thrilled to welcome Dr. Nguyen, whose skills and knowledge will help lead us to FQHC status as we continue to provide the best care for Orange County’s LGBTQ+ community. We are happy to welcome Dr. Nguyen to our team of dedicated providers.

Medical Care Accessibility Is Key

An analysis of LGBTQ+ health accessibility published by the National Library of Medicine found exclusion and marginalization were prominent. Many LGBTQ+ people report experiencing difficulties in communicating with health professionals. Radiant Health Centers has long been committed to removing these barriers, emphasizing healthcare accessibility for patients across Orange County.

The introduction of LGBTQ+ telehealth services means individuals can remotely access group counseling, consultations with doctors and medication refills. Similarly, at-home appointments reduces travel and cost constraints experienced by people most at risk. These benefits, along with the many other innovations at our medical clinic, make Radiant Health Centers the natural healthcare home for so many in the community.

Primary Medical Care Services for Orange County’s LGBTQ+ Community

Radiant Health Centers provides primary medical care, HIV and STD testing services, family planning and counseling for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. We are committed to improving the health outcomes of our patients through accessible healthcare services. To contact us, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.

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Know Your Status to Help End the HIV Epidemic

HIV testing services in Irvine

As the largest LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers is encouraging the community to know their HIV status and stay protected. Our HIV testing services play a crucial part in the early detection of HIV for so many people. However, countless others could also benefit from our services. Our goal is to give access to those most at risk from the virus by providing free HIV testing for the uninsured or underinsured provided by the California Department of Public Health Strategic Rapid ART grant. Those with insurance can also access our testing and treatment in a stigma-free environment.

Treating HIV Starts With Knowing Your Status

According to data from UNAIDS, 38.4 million people globally were living with HIV in 2021, but 28.7 million were accessing antiretroviral therapy. Further data suggests that last year, around 85% of people with HIV knew their status. While this figure shows considerable improvement from years past, the targeted figure of 90% (that was set for 2020) has not been reached. In brief, increasing knowledge about the importance of HIV testing and improving access to services is vital to improving status awareness.

Why Knowing Your HIV Status Is so Important

Knowing your status provides personal benefits – and broader societal benefits for the Orange County community. In many cases, a person can feel fine, exhibiting no clear signs of HIV, yet may still test positive. Because physical symptoms are not reliable indicators, the need for testing is very real.

Not only does HIV testing help prevent passing the virus to others, it also ensures people can get fast access to PEP or Rapid ART treatments. And as we’ve seen with events like the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, educating about benefits can lead to behavioral changes within the community.

Who Should Get Tested for HIV?

If you have concerns about exposure to HIV, you should make an immediate appointment at Radiant Health Centers’ Irvine medical clinic for testing as soon as possible. The CDC recommends that everyone between ages 13 and 64 get tested at least once for HIV. In addition, you should get a test if you have had sex with someone whose sexual history you don’t know.

Improving HIV Testing Accessibility

One of the primary concerns for people most at risk for HIV is accessibility to testing and treatment. Factors including travel distance, costs and stigma may prevent individuals from knowing their status. At Radiant Health Centers, we aim to improve accessibility with free HIV testing options for the uninsured provided by the California Department of Public Health Strategic Rapid ART grant. We also offer easy access to treatment, telehealth support and virtual counseling and mental health support.

Safe and Confidential HIV Testing Services in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides free HIV, STD and hepatitis C testing from our Irvine medical clinic. When you want to access testing, treatment or counseling services in Orange County, Radiant Health Centers works with the LGBTQ+ community to meet these needs. Call (949) 809-5700 for general inquiries.

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Join Us at the 36th Annual AIDS Walk Orange County

AIDS Walk Orange County fundraising

On Saturday, October 22, 2022 at 9 a.m., the annual AIDS Walk Orange County returns for its 36th year. This event offers the chance to come together, support people living with HIV/AIDS – and remember those we lost to the virus. At Radiant Health Centers, we invite the Orange County community to join us and walk in support of unity, family, love and equality for all.

Everything You Need to Know About AIDS Walk Orange County 2022

AIDS Walk Orange County starts at Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley. The action-packed event includes a “fun walk,” live entertainment, games, food trucks, plus an arts and crafts vendor fair. Some events to look forward to are the cutest dog contest, the most creative AIDS Walk T-shirt – and our top fundraiser and team announcement.

Participants may register as an individual, create a team or join a team, with the registration fee set at $25. There is no fundraising minimum to take part. And remember, every dollar counts, and we encourage people to work together to reach their fundraising goals.

If you cannot walk with us this year, you can still participate in the cause and help us by donating. Any amount you donate is appreciated!

Why AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 Matters

AIDS Walk Orange County has enabled Radiant Health Centers to support the LGBTQ+ community with health services, mental health counseling and other social services. With a history dating back to 1986, the walk brings together friends and families in solidarity with people living with HIV, and with those who have lost their lives.

Many people within the LGBTQ+ community face health disparities and struggle to get the healthcare they need. At Radiant Health Centers we provide the highest level of medical care and support, thanks in part to the generosity of our donors and sponsors. A special mention to the sponsors of this year’s event – ADP, Gilead, Biktarvy, Descovy, Avita, Hyundai, Room & Board and Shopoff Realty Investments.

Building on the Success of Last Year’s Walk

Last year’s event was a big success, with hundreds of participants raising a total of more than $120,000. This year we hope to do even better with the help of individuals and organizations in the community.

Funds raised have allowed us to invest in critical support services, including HIV testing, STI testing, medical services and youth programs. These programs improve health outcomes for people with HIV/AIDS, and deliver prevention, treatment and care to tackle the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic. By walking with us and donating to AIDS Walk Orange County 2022 this October, you can play an essential role in the fight to end HIV.

Attend the AIDS Walk Orange County and Donate to the Cause

Donating to AIDS Walk Orange County allows us to support thousands of LGBTQ+ people with health and social services. Please visit the fundraising page to register for the walk and donate to the cause. For any general inquiries, you can call us at (949) 809-5700.

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Stay Informed About Monkeypox in Orange County

Monkeypox prevention in Orange County

IMPORTANT UPDATE: GET AFFORDABLE MONKEYPOX VACCINES

Affordable Monkeypox vaccines are now available at Radiant Health Centers. Vaccines are available to anyone in Orange County by appointment only. To book an appointment call (949) 809-5700.

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus and anyone can get monkeypox, get vaccinated today!

In early August, the U.S. government declared monkeypox a public health emergency amid growing case rates. As monkeypox cases continue to rise, Radiant Health Centers is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community with up-to-date information and reliable education. Together with our friends in the Orange County community, we’re here to share information about monkeypox, keeping you informed and helping you stay safe.

What You Need to Know About Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare infection caused by the monkeypox virus (part of the same family of viruses as smallpox). The disease has been discovered in more than 90 countries worldwide and is causing great concern. The latest data indicates 83 confirmed and probable cases in Orange County, with the Orange County Health Care Agency continuing to investigate and conduct contact tracing.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms usually begin around 5–21 days after infection. Initial symptoms could be a fever, low energy, an aching body, swollen lymph nodes and headaches. Over the next few days, patients develop a rash that turns into blisters that scab over and eventually heal. The rash may develop on the face, hands, feet, chest, genitals and anus, and usually clears up after a few weeks.

If you recognize these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for help. The Orange County Health Care Agency is vaccinating those who meet the CDC guidelines, and who are 18 years or older. For an appointment, call (800) 564-8448 or visit www.othena.com. Learn more at www.ochealthinfo.com/monkeypox.

Preventive Steps to Fight Monkeypox Transmission

Prevention will play a key role in curbing the spread of monkeypox in Orange County. Here are the steps we can all take:

  • Wash your hands regularly.
  • Isolate yourself if you have monkeypox symptoms.
  • Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms.
  • Pay attention to sores or rashes on your body.
  • Wear protective clothing when caring for those with monkeypox.

Monkeypox and the LGBTQ+ Community

Data suggests that men who have sex with men are currently the group with the highest infection rates. However, while close skin contact is a method of transmission, monkeypox is not regarded as a sexually transmitted disease.

Join Us to End the Stigma About Monkeypox

Sadly, misinformation about the disease is stopping some people from accessing medical care. In reality, anyone can get monkeypox, from sharing towels to caring for someone with the disease. By spreading awareness, we can help stop the stigma and ensure individuals get the appropriate medical care when needed.

Radiant Health Centers is the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Irvine. Our expert team provides HIV testing and treatment, STD testing, family planning, counseling and telehealth services for people in Orange County. For general inquiries, call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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With STD Rates Rising Affordable 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.

STD Testing Service Available for LGBTQ+ People

Radiant Health Centers provides affordable same-day STD testing 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

An 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 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 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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