STI checks

[kdsorceress.livejournal.com]

Hey Davis Squarians! I am asking this for a friend (but also for myself, because it's useful information that I didn't see in the archives).

Where do you go around here for free/cheap STI testing? Fast turn-around is a definite plus, as is thoroughness of testing. Friend has MassHealth, if there's anywhere that definitely takes that for cheap screenings.

Thanks!

Comments

[rmd.livejournal.com]

Does the planned parenthood (http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/massachusetts/somerville/02144/plan:-a-planned-parenthood-express-center-3081-90610/std-testing-treatment) in Davis take Mass Health? When I had crappy insurance, Planned Parenthood was my go-to for cheap gyn exams and things like that, and they do testing at this office. No idea what their turnaround time is like.

ETA: their webpage says they take Mass Health.

[londo.livejournal.com]

These folks were free for those who didn't have health insurance, back in the day, I can't imagine they're much pricier now for those who do have it: https://access.fenwayhealth.org/portal/contact-us/default.aspx

Also seconding the PPLM branch in Davis as being conveniently located and reasonably friendly.

[cos]

Back in the day, Fenway never did free STI screens for people w/o insurance, only free HIV testing. Has that ever changed?

[real-green-tea.livejournal.com]

If you have MassHealth, STI testing at Fenway is free as long as the order has been sent by the practicioner you saw (like most places you have to schedule an appointment to be seen, not just walk in).

[purgatori84.livejournal.com]

I used to go here when I had no insurance:
http://www2.massgeneral.org/id/clinical_practice/std_clinic/
Your friend may have to wait, but it is free and you get quick results.

[cos]

About ten years ago, when I had no insurance and needed free testing, this was the one place in Boston I found to do it:

http://www.bmc.org/infectious-diseases/services/STD-HIV-testing-treatment.htm

Planned Parenthood would also have been an option if I could show them evidence of low income, in the form of regular paychecks, which they could use to access subsidies for low income people. But since I had no regular job at the time, it turned out too complicated to do anything through them without paying for it. Boston Medical didn't need anything, it was just plain free.

[zzbottom.livejournal.com]

The infectious diseases clinic at Boston Medical Center has a free, walk in clinic. Anonymous and no questions.

[she-of-emeralds.livejournal.com]

I went to the Planned Parenthood in Davis for just this thing, and they do take MassHealth. They were friendly, courteous and professional, and good at explaining things. And totally non-judgmental.

Turnaround time was pretty quick, I think I had all my results inside a week.