ABOUT STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused by infections that are passed from one person to another during sexual contact. Â Often people don’t have any symptoms, so don’t know they have an infection. Â 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.
STI Testing
We understand that getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a personal matter. Everyone deserves affordable, compassionate, and confidential health care.
That’s why we offer testing options to ensure your privacy.
We contract with Planned Parenthood for STI testing services for our residents at the following office locations:
- Saratoga Springs-518-584-0041
- Queensbury – 518-792-0994
- Saranac Lake – 518-891-0046
- Plattsburgh – 518-561-4430
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You can also visit PlannedParenthood.org and enter your zip code for location information. *Unfortunately, we do not have a contract with offices in Vermont at this time.
How to get tested:
You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7 with Planned Parenthood of the North Country or Planned Parenthood of Greater New York or you can call to book your appointment by location or ask further questions.
If you don’t have insurance, or do not wish to use your insurance, Essex County Health Department will be billed and pay for costs of your STI testing. Please mention the Essex County Health Department when scheduling your appointment to receive free testing.
Have questions or need assistance?
We’re here to help! Call us at 518-873-3500
HIVÂ Testing
HIV Counseling and Testing is recommended for everyone ages 13-64. Â 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 518-873-3500
 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? Â 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. Â 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 GovPayNet Fee Schedule and 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:
âś… Ensure access to STI testing, diagnosis and treatment,
âś… Ensure partner notification and referral services for treatment,
âś… Provide information referral and assistance in accessing community programs,
âś… Conduct public education and health promotion campaignsÂ
âś… Maintain communication with health care providers for surveillance, reporting and treatment