Around 2.6 million Americans were diagnosed with at least one type of sexually transmitted infection (STI) in 2021, detected mainly in teenagers and young adults aged 15-24. In America, the most common STDs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, and syphilis. Left untreated, an STI can lead to multiple STIs. Prolonged infections transform into STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), which are hard to treat/cure. Testing is the ideal way to protect your sexual health and treat the infection timely. Learn more about STD testing in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Board Approved
Medically reviewed by one or more members of the editorial boardExplore Nearby Options
Tennessee’s STD rates are considerably high, and the testing rate is relatively low. Knox County reported the nation’s highest chlamydia and gonorrhea rates between 2018-2019. From 1781 chlamydia and 855 gonorrhea cases in 2018, Knox County reported 1964 chlamydia and 934 gonorrhea cases in 2019. Knoxville’s total STD cases per 100k residents in 2020 were 2,314, where it recorded 960 HIV, 3,710 chlamydia, 1626 gonorrhea, and 34 syphilis cases. Brain damage, blindness, birth defects, infertility, and death are some consequences of untreated STDs. Knoxville, Tennessee residents, must make STD testing a priority. Scroll down to find your nearest testing facility.
1928 Alcoa Hwy, Bldg B-119, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920
2.4 mile
Tel: 8653059720
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
Please visit the website or call for eligibility requirements. STD testing, HIV PrEP and PEP for patients 18+. Trichomoniasis testing available as part of STD testing services.
110 Majestic Grove Rd, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920
1.15 mile
Tel: (866) 389-2727
2202 Martin Luther King Jr Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee 37915
1.15 mile
Tel: (865) 522-6097
Tel: (865) 540-1615
Appointment Required: Yes
2018 Western Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee 37921
1.15 mile
Tel: (865) 544-0406
Appointment Required: Yes
538 W 5th Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee 37917
1.15 mile
Tel: (865) 525-2104
Tel: (865) 525-2212
Appointment Required: Yes
Use our confidential STD symptom checker to get an idea of what STDs/STIs your symptoms align with and what STD tests are recommended to you.
Start Symptom CheckerWhich Method of STD Testing is Suitable for Me?
Every sexually active individual must protect their sexual health. Regular STD testing is the only way to care for your sexual health. However, sometimes it becomes confusing to select the right testing method as there are so many options available. For your convenience, we have gathered information about all available STD testing methods in Knoxville, Tennessee. Check them out to find out which option is suitable for you.
| Testing Method | Waiting Times | Speed of Results | Positive Consultation |
|---|---|---|---|
Private Testing (Walk-In Clinic) | 10-20 Minutes with No Wait | 24-72 Hours | Free With Positive Result |
At-Home STD Testing | No Wait | 5-11 Days | Free With Positive Result |
Doctor Visit with Insurance | Call for Appointment | 7-10 Days | Co-Pay Required |
Doctor Visit without Insurance | Call for Appointment | 7-10 Days | Out-of-Pocket Cost Required |
Public Clinic | Limited Hours and Long Lines | 7-14 Days | No |
Learn more in our ultimate guide to STD testing.
Depending on the test being performed and the testing physician's targeted diseases, various types of samples can be requested from you. In some instances, a minuscule blood sample of a few milliliters will be collected, some might ask for a urine sample, and others may opt for a genital swab. Again, the sample being collected will depend on the test being conducted and the outcome that is being targeted for this particular procedure.
Although NAATs are well-known for their accuracy and sensitivity in detecting most STDs, it is also subject to certain inconsistencies, especially in the case of herpes infections. In Herpes, outbreaks often result in a relative increase in the patient’s viral load – leading to a timeline that usually has specific peaks at certain intervals instead of a consistent rise in viral load throughout. As such, sensitive tests such as NAATs are still unable to accurately diagnose herpes conditions, especially in cases where the patient has recently become asymptomatic and is currently between outbreaks. Other tests such as culture testing and type-specific virologic tests are often employed instead as a confirmatory diagnosis for the patient’s condition.
Similar to how other testing procedures behave, false-positive results are still evident even in STD testing. False-positive and even false-negative results are standard instances that showcase the imperfection of the test’s design – a factor that is present everywhere. However, despite certain inconsistencies in laboratory tests as such, physicians commonly use confirmatory tests that would often take another path entirely to arrive at the same conclusion – solidifying the initial test’s diagnosis while still ensuring that the second test is not following the inconsistencies of the first.
It is recommended to get tested for STDs if you have had unprotected sexual contact, multiple sexual partners, or if you are experiencing symptoms associated with STDs. Additionally, regular testing is recommended as part of routine sexual health care, even in the absence of symptoms, especially for individuals who are sexually active.
It does vary on a case-to-case basis. Insurance policies are often particular with the instances that they would be covering with their program. Some may cover severe accidents, some may even consider “orphan disease,” and yes, some may also cover the expenses for performing STD diagnostic tests. However, considering that your insurance provider will have to verify the person's identity availing of the program, STD testing laboratories that employ a minimal collection of patient information may not accept insurance policies to prioritize privacy over affordability.
Test Advisor
Get informed about the different STD testing options and the prices for each test.
How Does it Work?
Most people experience feelings of hesitation when going to get tested for STD, despite knowing they might have contracted one. EasySTD was created to change that.
Visit your nearest lab or clinic, order your home testing kit online, and follow the given instructions from an STD testing provider.
After ordering your STD test, visit the testing center to get tested or take a self sample including urine, cotton swab, or finger prick with the home testing kit and mail it back.
Receive the lab-certified results of your STD test from your test provider via mail or phone within 2 to 3 days. If the test comes positive, consult your doctor immediately.
Help stop the spread of STDs by knowing your status. Get tested today!
