When you decide it’s time to check your status, you usually want answers now, not three weeks from now. If you’re considering STD testing, urgent care centers offer a convenient, discreet and timely option that allows you to bypass the long scheduling delays often found with primary care physicians. However, the process isn’t always one-size-fits-all.

Tests and costs can vary significantly depending on the specific type of infection being screened for, whether you have current insurance and the particular clinic you choose to visit. The good news? Many preventive STD screenings are fully covered when done in-network, making it easier than ever to prioritize your well-being without breaking the bank. Taking charge of your sexual health is a power move, and knowing exactly where and how to get tested is the first step.

Average cost of STD testing at urgent care

Studies and public health data show that the average cost of STD testing in the U.S. varies widely depending on the setting and number of tests. Research from a Rhode Island STD clinic estimates about $119 per clinic visit. Urgent care clinics tend to be more expensive than public health departments, with single tests often costing $30 to $150, according to Better Care. Insurance can significantly lower out-of-pocket costs, usually to a standard copay of $20–$50.

With insurance

Many health insurance plans are required by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to cover certain STD screenings without cost-sharing (no copay, coinsurance or deductible) when the screenings are preventive and meet specific criteria, as explained by Planned Parenthood.

HIV testing, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea screenings often fall under this coverage when the person is considered at increased risk or when they fall into certain groups. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are usually limited to small lab copays. Typical lab copays range from $10 to $30 per test for individuals whose insurance accepts the provider and who have already met any applicable preventive care conditions, according to Cost Helper.

Without insurance

For a single STD test (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhea or HIV), out-of-pocket without insurance might be $25-$100 if using a public health clinic, sliding scale or a minimal panel. For several common STDs tested together (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV), expect something like $150-$300 in many urgent care or private clinic settings.

When including multiple infections (viral, bacterial, fungal etc.), K Health notes that advanced lab work and physician/urgent care fees, cost rises to $200-$400+. For broader or rapid testing, costs can exceed $700, but the majority of people who pay out of pocket for STD testing will not encounter bills that high, unless they choose the most extensive panels or go through out-of-network/private labs.

Factors that affect cost

The cost of STD testing at urgent care varies depending on several factors. The CDC explains that the type of test plays a major role, as blood, urine, and swab tests all carry different lab fees and rapid tests (such as rapid HIV tests) are often more expensive due to on-site processing. Costs also increase with the number of STDs screened, as bundled or full-panel testing is more expensive than single-disease tests.

Where you get tested matters as well; urgent care centers typically charge more than public clinics because of higher overhead and added convenience. Geographic location influences pricing, with clinics in urban or high-cost-of-living areas typically charging more. Additionally, whether tests are processed in-house or sent to external laboratories can affect the bill, according to the NIH. Finally, the type of visit itself can add to costs, since provider consultations, physical exams or additional services are often billed separately.

Insurance coverage details

Insurance can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for STD testing, but coverage depends on the type of test, whether it’s considered preventive or diagnostic. Diagnostic tests (ordered because you have symptoms or known exposure) may not be fully covered, so you could owe copays, coinsurance or need to meet a deductible.

The NIH points out that Medicare Part B covers certain STD screenings without cost-sharing for high-risk populations, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and HIV. Medicaid coverage varies by state, but most programs cover STD testing. Some states also cover at-home testing kits. According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, “People with Medicaid or other public health insurance are more likely to receive STI screening than people with private or no health insurance.” Copays and deductibles may apply if the visit includes a physician consultation, physical exam or treatment. Some insurance plans also require prior authorization for certain tests or panels.

The key takeaway here is that with insurance, many STD tests can be free or low-cost if they are preventive and performed in-network, but diagnostic testing, additional services or out-of-network care can increase costs.

How to save money

Besides using insurance, there are several ways to lower the cost of STI testing. Select only the tests you need, rather than a full panel, and ensure the clinic is in-network to maximize coverage. Public health or community clinics often offer low-cost or sliding-scale testing and some urgent care centers provide self-pay discounts or payment plans. Additionally, free screening events may be available in your area, so it’s worth checking local health resources.

You can also consider at-home STD testing kits, which allow you to collect samples privately and mail them to a lab. These kits can be cheaper than a full panel at an urgent care clinic, especially if you only need a few tests. Many kits include rapid results online, making testing more convenient and discreet. “At-home STD test kits are a game-changer in making sexual healthcare more available.” says sexual health expert, Dr. Maria Johnson.

What is the difference between an STD and an STI?

An STI (sexually transmitted infection) refers to the presence of an infection caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites, whether or not it causes symptoms, while an STD (sexually transmitted disease) is used when the infection has progressed and causes symptoms or health problems. The Mayo Clinic explains that all STDs start as STIs, but not all STIs develop into diseases.

How quickly do STD results come back?

The speed at which you receive STD test results varies significantly depending on the type of test administered and the specific facility used. As Planned Parenthood notes, rapid diagnostic tests (commonly available for HIV and sometimes syphilis) are designed to provide answers within just 20 to 30 minutes, often before you leave the clinic.

However, comprehensive screenings for other common infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea and hepatitis typically require sending urine, blood or swab samples to an off-site laboratory. Due to the processing and shipping time involved, these results typically take anywhere from one business day to a full week to be finalized and reported back to you.

Bottom line

Urgent care clinics can provide convenient STD testing, but costs vary widely based on the type of test, number of infections screened, location and insurance coverage. Using insurance, selecting only necessary tests and exploring public clinics or free events can help reduce costs, while rapid or bundled panels may be more expensive. Overall, being informed about testing options ensures timely, affordable care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What STDs are most common?

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and human papillomavirus (HPV) are the most common sexually transmitted infections in the U.S., as per Very Well Health.

How accurate are rapid STD tests?

Rapid STD tests are generally reliable, with high sensitivity and specificity, but some infections may require follow-up testing in a lab to confirm results.

What is the best antibiotic to treat STDs?

The antibiotic depends on the specific infection. For example, azithromycin or doxycycline is commonly used for chlamydia, while ceftriaxone is recommended for gonorrhea. Always follow a healthcare provider’s guidance for treatment.

Citations

Dean, Lorraine T., et al. “The Affordability of Providing Sexually Transmitted Disease Services at a Safety-net Clinic.” American Journal of Preventive Medicine, vol. 54, no. 4, Feb. 2018, pp. 552–58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2017.12.016.

GROSSMAN, EDWARD, G. and Office of the Legislative Counsel. “COMPILATION OF PATIENT PROTECTION AND AFFORDABLE CARE ACT.” Office of the Legislative Counsel, 9 June 2010, housedocs.house.gov/energycommerce/ppacacon.pdf.

“Does Health Insurance Cover Sexual Health Services?” Planned Parenthood, www.plannedparenthood.org/get-care/health-insurance/about-health-insurance/does-health-insurance-cover-sexual-health-services.

“Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence, Incidence, and Cost Estimates in the United States.” Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), 3 Apr. 2024, www.cdc.gov/sti/php/communication-resources/prevalence-incidence-and-cost-estimates.html.

Mitton, Arielle. “How Much Does STD Testing Cost Without Insurance?” K Health, 21 July 2022, www.khealth.com/learn/healthcare/how-much-does-std-testing-cost-without-insurance.

Crowley, Jeffrey S., et al. “Paying for and Structuring STI Services.” Sexually Transmitted Infections – NCBI Bookshelf, 24 Mar. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573144.

Seiler, Naomi, et al. “Addressing the STI Epidemic Through the Medicaid Program: A Roadmap for States and Managed Care Organizations.” Public Health Reports, vol. 137, no. 1, Feb. 2021, pp. 5–10. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920985476.

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