The Oregon Health Authority recently reported a shocking statistic:
Sexually transmitted diseases make up two thirds of all reported diseases in Oregon state. Even more troubling, those numbers are on the rise. The most common STD reported today is chlamydia, which also continues to be Oregon’s most commonly reported disease overall.
Physicians have also seen an unexpected and drastic increase in syphilis cases, from less than 30 infections in 2007 to 537 cases in 2015. Gonorrhea also has risen from 1,400 cases in 2006 to 3,200 in 2015. Most STDs in Oregon have been reported among people between the ages of 15 and 24, which means young people are most at risk. Physicians recommend STD tests for all sexually active adults, especially those who have new or multiple sexual partners.
If you have never been tested, or believe that you may have contracted an STD, you may become anxious at the thought of waiting to know your status. Often times, STD infections are asymptomatic, or have extremely mild symptoms that can be easily overlooked. So unless you undergo STD tests, it is virtually impossible to know whether or not you are infected.
With only 29% of primary healthcare providers offering after-hours services, you’ll be relieved to know that there are other options. Urgent care facilities are walk in health clinics that can provide fast STD testing, among other services and treatments. And for those without comprehensive health insurance, Portland walk in clinics are vastly cheaper than a trip to the emergency room. With 85% of clinics open seven days per week, and many providing service prior to 9 a.m. and until at least 7 p.m., you’ll be able to see a healthcare provider on your schedule. In most cases, you will be seen in less than 20 minutes.
If you choose to go to an urgent care facility for STD testing, you can expect your copay to range between $35 and $55 depending on your insurance provider. Not only that, but the healthcare provider on-site will provide you with necessary treatments if your STD results come back positive. Luckily, if you have contracted chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis, your condition can be treated and eliminated with prescription antibiotics.
With about two clinics opening every day, there will be an estimated 15,000 urgent care locations by 2019. AFC Urgent Care proudly serves the Portland metropolitan area with two locations in Portland, one location in Beaverton, and one location in Lake Oswego.
