ABOUT STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by infections that are passed from one person to another during sexual contact. Often people don’t have any symptoms, so don’t know they have an infection. But sexually transmitted infections are very common; in fact about half of us will have some kind of infection in our lifetime.
But there are things we can do to prevent infection – visit our Sexual Health page to learn more. And getting tested if you’re at risk of infection equals best possible treatment and outcomes for you and prevention for any sexual partner.
FOR YOU
STD Testing
We contract with Planned Parenthood of the North Country to provide STD testing.
Call 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment.
HIV Testing
HIV Counseling and Testing is recommended for everyone ages 13-64. One in six (1/6) people with HIV do not know they are infected.
To schedule an appointment for HIV Counseling and Testing, or more information call 1-800-797-5772.
HCV Testing
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. Most people with hepatitis C don’t know they have it. It is spread from blood to blood. Get tested if you…
¨ Injected or snorted drugs (even if it was years ago)
¨ Got a tattoo or body piercing from an unlicensed artist,
¨ Were born from 1945-1965 (Baby Boomers)
¨ Received donated blood or organs before 1992
Why are Baby Boomers and blood/organ donors/recipients at increased risk? Because we did not have the same precautionary measures in place (like single-use needles) to prevent disease transmission that we have today.
We provide RAPID (20 minute results) HCV testing by fingerstick at our Elizabethtown office. Call 518-873-3500 for an appointment.
We can bill public insurance and Excellus BCBS for these tests. This Department charges an at-cost rate plus administration fee —our rate/fees are adjusted down using a sliding fee scale based on household income.
We can now accept payment with GovPayNet – so you can swipe your debit or credit card here at our office or pay online.
Before you pay with GovPayNet we advise you to read the 2017 GovPayNet Fee Schedule and 2017 GovPayNet Terms of Service.
Please call our office at 518-873-3500 if you have questions about immunizations, fees or payment.
OUR REQUIRED ACTIVITIES
We provide, or assure through contracts, confidential:
- prevention-focused education, marketing & communication;
- screening and counseling for STDs and HIV;
- partner notification and referral services;
- prophylatic (medicine or course of action used to prevent disease) treatment as needed for partners;
- referral and follow-up for patients diagnosed with a STD or HIV.