Around 1.1 million people are living with HIV in the USA, and about 56,300 new infections are reported annually. Those with an STD, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are at a greater risk of contracting HIV. In case you test positive, modern medications are available to treat HIV and other STDs. But their effectiveness depends on how sooner you start treatment. Early testing is also essential to prevent the transmission of infection to others. Learn more about STD/HIV testing in Providence, Rhode Island.
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Rhode Island reported a shocking rise in numbers of the three notifiable STDs, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Between 2010 and 2019, syphilis rates increased by over 200%, whereas gonorrhea spiked by 400%. Providence County accounted for the largest number of combined STIs, reporting 78% of all chlamydia, 81% of syphilis, and 87% of gonorrheal infections in the state. Moreover, health experts noted that STIs impacted people across all age groups, socioeconomic levels, sexual orientations, and genders. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the two most common STDs in Rhode Island. Listed below are some free and low-cost STD/HIV testing clinics in Providence, RI.
1 Randall Sq, Providence, Rhode Island 02904
1.06 mile
Tel: 4014560545
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
All residents of the State of Rhode Island are eligible for Health Center services. This is an LGBTQ+ safe zone clinic.
1126 Hartford Ave, Providence, Rhode Island 02919
0.27 mile
Tel: (401) 519-1940
Appointment Required: Yes
HIV/STD testing open to the general public. Testing is provided free for those without insurance.
180 Corliss St, Ste E, Providence, Rhode Island 02904
0.27 mile
Tel: (401) 793-2928
Appointment Required: Yes
The clinic primarily serves the homeless population, and others are welcomed on a sliding fee schedule. Many insurances are accepted.
160 Broad St, Providence, Rhode Island 02903
0.43 mile
Tel: (401) 861-2403
Tel: (401) 521-1145
Appointment Required: Yes
1 Hoppin St, Ste 3055, Providence, Rhode Island 02903
0.6 mile
Tel: (401) 444-5980
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 Providence, Rhode Island. 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.
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.
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.
Yes. Certain companies offer at-home testing kits wherein you are the one that will collect the specimens necessary for the test at the comfort of your own home. Sure, it might sometimes be subject to errors due to the potential contamination of the sample from collection to transportation, but it does offer a great deal of privacy and convenience for patients who would prefer to have their identities hidden in fear that their community will judge them.
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.
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!
