Prevention and Education

Planned Parenthood STD Testing Cost: What to Expect

Planned Parenthood STD testing costs vary by location, test, and income — but the sliding-scale fee structure means most people pay significantly less than at a private lab. A full STD panel at Planned Parenthood can cost anywhere from $0 (for low-income uninsured patients) to $250 or more (for higher-income patients paying full rate) depending on what's included; HIV testing is often free or very low cost; and most tests covered under the ACA preventive care mandate are $0 with insurance including at Planned Parenthood.

How the Sliding-Scale Fee Works

Planned Parenthood's sliding-scale fee structure calculates your cost based on household income and family size relative to the federal poverty level (FPL). Patients at or below 100% FPL typically pay $0 or minimal fees. Patients at 101 to 200% FPL pay a reduced rate. Patients above 200% FPL pay closer to full rate. You'll be asked to provide income documentation (or self-report in some cases). The actual fee schedule varies by health center — call ahead or use the Planned Parenthood website chat to get an estimate before your visit.

Individual Test Cost Ranges

HIV rapid test: free to $25 at most locations; many community HIV testing sites offer it free. Chlamydia and gonorrhea NAAT: $0 to $70 on sliding scale; $0 with insurance (ACA-mandated for women under 25). Syphilis RPR: $0 to $50 on sliding scale. Herpes IgG (if requested separately): $0 to $80 on sliding scale; may not be included in standard panels. Hepatitis B and C: $0 to $60 on sliding scale. Complete STD panel (all above): sliding scale from $0 to approximately $200 to $250 depending on location and income. These are estimates — actual prices vary. Call your specific location for an accurate quote.

When Insurance Covers Planned Parenthood STD Testing

The ACA requires all private insurance plans (and Medicaid) to cover these STD tests at $0 cost-sharing (no copay, no deductible) when billed as preventive care: chlamydia and gonorrhea screening annually for sexually active women under 25; HIV screening at least once for all adults 15 to 65; syphilis screening for people at increased risk. Planned Parenthood accepts most major insurance plans. If your insurer covers these tests, your cost should be $0 at an in-network Planned Parenthood location for covered preventive tests.

Planned Parenthood vs Private Lab Pricing

Private direct-access labs (Health Test Express, STDcheck, Labcorp OnDemand): fixed pricing, no sliding scale; typical range $79 to $299 depending on panel; faster results (1 to 2 days). Planned Parenthood: potentially much lower or $0 for lower-income patients; results in 1 to 5 days; integrated with other sexual health care. The right choice depends on your income and how quickly you need results.

For comprehensive STD testing at competitive pricing with results in 1 to 2 days, Health Test Express offers panels without a GP referral.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get free STD testing at Planned Parenthood?

Yes, if your income qualifies. At or below the poverty line, many Planned Parenthood locations offer STD testing at no cost. Medicaid-insured patients typically pay $0 for ACA-mandated tests.

Do I need proof of income for Planned Parenthood sliding-scale?

Requirements vary by location. Some ask for documentation (pay stubs, tax returns); others accept self-reported income. Call ahead to ask what to bring.

Is a complete STD panel at Planned Parenthood cheaper than a private lab?

For lower-income patients, usually yes — significantly cheaper. For higher-income patients paying full rate, Planned Parenthood and private labs may be similar in cost. The private lab advantage is faster results and no appointment required.

Related: Planned Parenthood STD testing · Free STD testing near me · STD test price guide · Get tested today

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Prices may have changed since publication — verify with your local Planned Parenthood.

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Dr. Michael Thompson is an expert in sexually transmitted diseases with extensive clinical and research experience. He leads campaigns advocating for early diagnosis and prevention of diseases like HIV and gonorrhea. He collaborates with local organizations to educate both youth and adults about sexual health.