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.
