Before we dive into this controversial topic, let's put safety first. If you are sexually active, then there's no excuse not to schedule confidential STD testing ASAP. You can even find same day STD testing at an urgent care clinic near you.
Many Americans have heard of the most common STDs, and millions will contract one or more of these infections in their lifetime. Common sexually transmitted diseases include things like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV/AIDS, HPV, and various forms of hepatitis.
Since 2013 Some People Have Ditched the Term "STD"
You may have noticed that in recent years, many publications, healthcare organizations, and some doctors have stopped using the term STD (sexually transmitted disease) in favor of a new phrase, STI (sexually transmitted infection). Some people prefer the term STI because they believe it is more accurate. Not everyone with an infection develops symptoms, and since there is technically no disease without symptoms, they say that STI is the more scientifically accurate term. Still, others believe that the term disease increases the stigma associated with STDs, which can stop people from seeking help or informing partners before sexual play. And then there are those now using the catch-all term STD/STI.
Feeling confused? That's the problem. Right now there's no clear standard about whether STD or STI is the proper term. Ultimately, the switch to STI might be doing more harm than good. Even if STI is more accurate -- and not everyone agrees that it is -- the general public is already familiar with the term STD. Considering the huge problems with accurate sexual education in the United States, particularly among younger Americans and teens, confusion is a very dangerous thing.
For this reason, you'll find most places offering sexual health information and confidential STD testing still use the traditional term.
Why Get Tested for STDs?
One of the most important services Denver urgent care clinics offer is same day STD testing. In fact, for those without insurance, these low-cost health clinics are one of the only places to receive fast STD testing at all.
According to current data, the U.S. needs about 52,000 more primary care physicians by 2025 to meet our healthcare needs. But that's only one of the gaps in the U.S. healthcare system. Despite Obamacare, far too many Americans are uninsured, which is one of the reasons you have to wait so long in the emergency room. Between 2003 and 2009, the mean wait time in ERs went up by a quarter, from 46.5 minutes to 58.1 minutes. Not only do you wait longer, ER patients pay more, too. The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey reports that the average ER visitor pays total costs of $1,318 and a mean cost of $615.
That's why so many urgent care clinics have been opening up around in communities all over the country, and many of these healthcare clinics offer STD testing (which is always 100% confidential!). For instance, our Denver urgent care clinic makes it as easy and convenient as possible for anyone to get tested. Even if you aren't showing symptoms, contact an urgent care clinic near you and ask if they offer laboratory services like same day STD testing.
Remember, there's nothing sexier than putting your partners' safety first!
