STD Testing with Insurance

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause serious health problems if left untreated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there are approximately 20 million new STD infections each year in the United States alone. With the prevalence of STDs, it is important to get tested regularly, especially if you are sexually active. Insurance can help cover the costs of STD testing and treatment, making it more accessible for people to prioritize their sexual health.

How Does Insurance Cover STD Testing?

Insurance plans may have different policies regarding STD testing coverage. However, most plans cover the cost of STD testing as part of preventative care. This means that you can get tested for STDs without incurring any out-of-pocket costs. Although, you may need to pay a co-pay for the doctor visit or lab work.

If you are unsure about your insurance coverage for STD testing, you can contact your insurance provider or doctor’s office to check. It is important to note that some insurance plans may require you to go to a specific provider for STD testing or require a referral from your primary care doctor. So, it is vital to know the details of your insurance coverage.

What Types of STD Testing Does Insurance Cover?

Insurance plans typically cover the cost of testing for common STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. These tests are usually conducted through a blood or urine sample or a swab of the infected area. However, not all tests are covered by insurance, such as HPV testing or herpes testing. It is important to check with your insurance provider to know what tests are covered to avoid any unexpected charges later on.

Where Can You Get STD Testing with Insurance?

You can get STD testing through your primary care doctor, gynecologist, or at a specialized testing center. Some insurance plans may require you to go to a specific provider for STD testing. If you are seeking a specialized testing center, you may want to check if they accept your insurance plan first to avoid any out-of-pocket costs.

The CDC offers a tool on their website that allows you to find STD testing centers near you. You can filter the search results based on the type of insurance accepted, test type, and more. This tool can be a useful resource for finding testing centers that accept insurance coverage.

What if You Don’t Have Insurance Coverage for STD Testing?

If you do not have insurance coverage for STD testing, there are still options available to you. Some testing centers may offer free or low-cost testing to those who cannot afford it. Additionally, some states offer free or low-cost STD testing through public health clinics. You can check with your local health department for more information on these services.

Another option is to use at-home STD testing kits. These kits are available online or at pharmacies and can provide you with a discreet and convenient way to get tested for STDs. Although, it is important to note that at-home testing kits may not be as accurate as lab testing done by a healthcare provider.

FAQs

1. How often should I get tested for STDs?

The CDC recommends that sexually active individuals get tested for STDs at least once a year or more often if you have multiple partners, engage in unprotected sex, or have a history of STDs.

2. Will my insurance cover the cost of STD treatment?

Most insurance plans cover the cost of STD treatment, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to know the details of your coverage.

3. Will my parents find out if I get STD testing with insurance?

No, your parents will not find out if you get STD testing with insurance if you are on your own insurance plan. However, if you are on your parents’ insurance plan, they may receive an explanation of benefits (EOB) statement that includes information about the services you received.

4. What if I test positive for an STD?

If you test positive for an STD, it is important to seek treatment immediately. Your healthcare provider can prescribe medication to treat the infection and prevent further health complications. Additionally, they may provide counseling on how to prevent the spread of the infection to sexual partners.

5. Can I still get STD testing during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes, many testing centers are still open and offering STD testing during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is important to check with the testing center first to see if they have any safety protocols in place, such as requiring masks or offering virtual appointments.