STD Testing at Urgent Care: What to Expect and Why You Should Consider All Your Options

Last updated: May 6, 2025

Yes, urgent care centers do provide STD testing services. These facilities offer convenient walk-in testing for common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis. While urgent care is accessible with extended hours and no appointments needed, patients should consider all available testing options, including specialized clinics that may offer more comprehensive testing, greater privacy, and specialized follow-up care.

Does Urgent Care Do STD Testing?

Yes, urgent care centers do offer STD testing services. These medical facilities have become increasingly popular options for sexual health screenings due to their convenient locations, extended hours, and walk-in availability. Most urgent care centers are equipped to test for common sexually transmitted diseases including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, and herpes.

When you visit an urgent care for STD testing, medical professionals will collect appropriate samples (blood, urine, or swabs) based on your symptoms and concerns. The specific tests available may vary by location, so it's advisable to call ahead if you're looking for testing for a particular STD. While urgent care provides a convenient testing option, there are important considerations regarding privacy, cost, and comprehensiveness that we'll explore throughout this article.

What STD Tests Are Available at Urgent Care?

Urgent care centers typically offer testing for the most common sexually transmitted diseases. The standard testing options available at most urgent care facilities include:

• Chlamydia - Usually tested via urine sample or genital swab

• Gonorrhea - Typically uses the same sample as chlamydia testing

• HIV - Blood test for antibodies or viral RNA

• Syphilis - Blood test that detects antibodies

• Herpes - Blood test for antibodies or swab of lesions (if present)

• Hepatitis B and C - Blood tests

Not all urgent care centers offer comprehensive STD panels, and some less common STDs may not be included in standard testing protocols. It's always best to call ahead and confirm which specific tests are available at your local urgent care facility.

The Complete Urgent Care STD Testing Process

When you visit an urgent care center for STD testing, you can expect the following process:

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1. Registration and Intake

• Fill out medical history forms and provide insurance information

• Brief explanation of your reason for visit (you can simply say "STD testing" or be more specific if comfortable)

• Payment of any required co-pays or fees

2. Initial Consultation

• A healthcare provider will discuss your symptoms (if any) and sexual history

• They'll explain which tests are appropriate based on your risk factors

• You'll have an opportunity to ask questions about the testing process

3. Sample Collection

Depending on which STDs are being tested for, you may need to provide:

• Blood samples - Drawn by a phlebotomist or nurse

• Urine samples - You'll be directed to a private bathroom

• Genital, oral, or rectal swabs - Either self-collected or taken by a provider

4. Testing and Results

• Most urgent care centers send samples to outside laboratories

• Results typically take 2-5 business days

• You may receive results via phone call, patient portal, or follow-up visit

5. Treatment (If Necessary)

• If results are positive, the urgent care provider can prescribe treatment for many STDs

• For more complex conditions, they may refer you to a specialist

How Much Does STD Testing Cost at Urgent Care?

The cost of STD testing at urgent care centers varies widely depending on:

• Which tests are performed

• Your insurance coverage

• The specific urgent care facility

• Your location

Without insurance, you can expect to pay:

• Base visit fee: $75-$200

• Individual STD tests: $20-$140 each

• Comprehensive STD panel: $200-$500

With insurance, you'll typically be responsible for:

• Co-pay for the visit: $20-$50

• Possible co-insurance for lab work: 10-30% of the total cost

Many urgent care centers offer self-pay discounts for uninsured patients. Always ask about pricing before proceeding with testing if cost is a concern.

Pros and Cons of Getting STD Testing at Urgent Care

Advantages of Urgent Care STD Testing

Convenience and Accessibility

• Extended hours - Many urgent care centers are open evenings and weekends

• No appointment needed - Walk-in service is standard

• Multiple locations - Often more accessible than specialized clinics

• Quick visits - Usually faster than primary care appointments

Medical Support

• Immediate treatment - Prescriptions can be provided on-site for positive results

• Medical guidance - Healthcare professionals available to answer questions

• Treatment for complications - Can address any immediate symptoms

Disadvantages of Urgent Care STD Testing

Privacy Concerns

• Less anonymity - Records may be linked to your primary medical file

• Public waiting areas - Potentially less private than specialized clinics

• Insurance billing - May appear on insurance statements

Testing Limitations

• Less comprehensive - May not test for all STDs

• Slower results - Usually takes several days versus same-day options elsewhere

• Limited counseling - Less time for in-depth discussion about prevention and risks

How Long Does It Take to Get STD Test Results from Urgent Care?

The timeline for receiving STD test results from urgent care centers typically ranges from:

• Rapid tests (HIV, some strains of herpes): 20-30 minutes

• Standard tests (chlamydia, gonorrhea): 2-5 business days

• More complex tests (hepatitis panel, HPV): 5-7 business days

Factors that may affect timing include:

• Lab processing times

• Volume of tests being processed

• Weekend or holiday delays

• Result delivery method (patient portal access may be faster than waiting for a call)

Most urgent care centers will contact you only if results are positive, though policies vary by facility. Always clarify how and when you should expect to receive your results before leaving the urgent care center.

Alternatives to Urgent Care for STD Testing

Primary Care Physicians

• Pros: Familiar with your medical history, may be covered better by insurance

• Cons: Longer wait times for appointments, limited hours

Public Health Clinics

• Pros: Low or no cost, specialized in sexual health

• Cons: Limited locations, may have long wait times

Specialized STD Clinics

• Pros: Comprehensive testing options, staff experienced in sexual health

• Cons: May not accept insurance, limited availability in some areas

At-Home Testing Kits

• Pros: Maximum privacy, convenience

• Cons: Potential accuracy issues, no immediate medical support

Online Testing Services

• Pros: Discreet, often faster results than urgent care

• Cons: Usually self-pay, no physical examination

Our Recommendation: We've partnered with STDCheck to offer reliable, confidential testing with over 4,500 testing centers nationwide. Their services include same-day testing, results within 1-2 days, and FDA-approved testing methods. STDCheck provides a physician consultation for positive results at no additional cost.

When to Choose Urgent Care vs. Other Testing Options

Choose Urgent Care When:

• You need testing outside of regular business hours

• You have symptoms that need immediate attention

• You want a medical evaluation along with testing

• You need both testing and potential treatment in one visit

• Your primary doctor isn't available for several days or weeks

Consider Other Options When:

• You need the absolute lowest cost testing

• Complete privacy is your highest priority

• You want specialized counseling along with testing

• You need comprehensive testing for less common STDs

• You prefer to establish an ongoing relationship with a sexual health provider

Insurance Coverage for STD Testing at Urgent Care

Most health insurance plans provide some coverage for STD testing at urgent care centers, especially when:

• You're experiencing symptoms

• You've had known exposure to an STD

• The testing is considered medically necessary

Under the Affordable Care Act, many preventive STD screenings must be covered without cost-sharing (no co-pay or deductible) when performed by in-network providers, including:

• HIV testing for everyone ages 15-65

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea screening for women under 25

• Syphilis screening for individuals at increased risk

Important insurance considerations:

• Pre-authorization: Some tests may require pre-approval

• Network status: Verify the urgent care center is in-network

• Explanation of Benefits: STD testing will appear on insurance statements

• Lab work: The facility may be in-network, but the lab might not be

FAQs About STD Testing at Urgent Care Centers

Is STD testing at urgent care confidential?

While urgent care centers maintain medical privacy in accordance with HIPAA regulations, visits and tests will typically appear on insurance statements if you use insurance. For maximum confidentiality, consider paying out-of-pocket or using specialized anonymous testing services like our partner STDCheck, which provides completely confidential testing with no insurance involvement.

Can I get STD testing at urgent care without symptoms?

Yes, most urgent care centers will provide STD testing even without symptoms. However, insurance coverage may be better if you're experiencing symptoms or have had known exposure.

Do I need an appointment for STD testing at urgent care?

No, most urgent care centers accept walk-ins for STD testing, though some facilities do offer appointment options to reduce wait times.

Will my regular doctor be notified about my STD test at urgent care?

If you use insurance, records of your visit may be accessible to other providers in your insurance network. If you're concerned about privacy, discuss this with the urgent care staff before testing.

Can minors get STD testing at urgent care without parental consent?

Laws vary by state. Many states allow minors to consent to STD testing and treatment without parental involvement, but policies may differ by facility. Call ahead to confirm.

What should I bring to an urgent care visit for STD testing?

Bring your ID, insurance card (if using insurance), payment method, and a list of any symptoms or concerns. It's also helpful to know dates of potential exposure and sexual history details.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your STD Testing Needs

Urgent care centers do provide valuable STD testing services with the benefit of convenience and medical support. They're an excellent option when you need testing quickly or outside regular business hours. However, for routine STD screening, you may find better value, privacy, or specialized care through dedicated sexual health clinics or other testing options.

For ultimate privacy and convenience, we recommend our partner STDCheck. They offer:

• 100% confidential testing (no information reported to your insurance)

• Fast results (typically within 1-2 days)

• FDA-approved and CLIA-certified testing methods

• Free physician consultation for positive results

• No awkward conversations or waiting rooms

The most important thing is getting tested regularly if you're sexually active with new or multiple partners. Whether you choose urgent care or another testing option, taking control of your sexual health through regular screening is a vital part of your overall healthcare routine.

If you're experiencing symptoms that concern you or have had potential exposure to an STD, don't delay testing. Most STDs are easily treatable when caught early, and urgent care centers provide a accessible way to get the testing you need without delay.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical concerns.