Starting this fall, students can visit Student Health Services any time during the year for LAB ONLY sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing.
Students interested in STI testing will complete a questionnaire which will help them determine the type of appointment they will need. Appointments consist of simply going directly to the lab to have testing completed, or scheduling an appointment with a provider. That questionnaire will also help to determine the test options the student should consider having. Students, who display symptoms or are at risk, will be asked to make an appointment with a provider. An option that is always available to students is to schedule an appointment with a provider where they can discuss any questions they might have regarding sexual health or testing options. It is strongly encouraged for sexually active students to get tested periodically to stay current on their health.
According to Dr. Robert Kinsella, SHS Sexual Health Staff Physician, “Due to the prevalance of sexually transmitted infections in younger adults, it is important for all college-aged, sexually active individuals to take proper precautions to prevent the spread of these infections. These precautions should include:
- Avoiding situations in which substances (including alcohol) may impair judgements.
- Consistent (100%) condom use with all partners unless in a mutually monogamous relationship.
- Regular screening for infections including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis
These precautions protect not only the individual but any and all partners as well.”
Please call the appointment desk to schedule the quick test. An STI testing visit will cost $11, and any tests that may require additional fees the student can submit to insurance. All SHS visits are confidential. Students will be notified of test results via secure message or phone within a couple of days. Appointments can be made through our secure portal or by calling our appointment desk during regular business hours, 8:00am-5:00pm at (309) 438-2778. Visit the SHS Sexual Health site for more information.
