Find an STD Testing Location in Chattanooga, Tennessee
To help you locate an accredited laboratory/testing center, a list of resources has been compiled and can be found below.
Consult with your health care provider about any lab testing that you may be considering. It is also important to follow up with your health care provider to discuss your results within the context of your medical history.
At-Home STD Testing
Testing for STDs at home is safe, convenient, and private. Performed regularly, it can help you stay healthy and avoid unknowingly transmitting STDs.
You have many options for at-home STD testing. The best at-home STD tests are FDA approved and evaluated for safety and accuracy with fast result turnaround times and support from health care professionals.
At-home STD testing kits should include instructions for collection and test registration, along with materials such as containers and swabs to collect and send your sample to the lab. Most at-home STD tests offer results in about five days through a secure online patient portal.
At-home testing can be a good option for routine screening, but if you have symptoms, were recently exposed, or need certain sample types, in-person testing may be a better option.
STD Testing Options in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Choose the STD testing option you’re most comfortable with:
- Private clinic: Your primary care physician or OB-GYN can order STD tests.
- Local lab: Some labs offer direct testing without a doctor’s orders.
- Community clinic: A community clinic, such as city or county clinics, or nonprofit organizations may offer STD testing. Some offer STD tests for free or low cost.
- At home: You can test for STDs at home using a kit and send your sample to a lab for analysis.
When Should I Get Tested for STDs?
If you think you might have an STD, it’s best to get tested. STDs don’t go away if you ignore them; they’ll just get worse and could grow into more serious health consequences. If left untreated, some STDs can lead to issues like infertility and more serious infections. You can also spread STDs to sexual partners if you have an untreated infection. Ask your health care provider for STD testing recommendations or follow CDC recommendations for STD testing.
What Will Be Tested in an STD Panel?
You can request specific STD tests or a full panel. An STD clinic can recommend tests based on your sexual health and symptoms.
A routine STD panel may include:
A full-panel STD test adds:
What Can I Expect During STD Testing?
STD testing is often quick and straightforward. The type of sample collected depends on the test, but may include urine, blood, or a swab. Samples are sent to a lab for analysis, and results are usually available within a few business days or up to about a week, depending on the test and provider.
How Much Will STD Testing Cost in Chattanooga, Tennessee?
The cost of an STD test will vary by location and test type. Some clinics, usually community or nonprofit clinics, offer free or low-cost testing. Labs, clinics, and at-home testing companies may accept insurance to cover or lower your cost of testing.
Are STD Results Private?
Yes. Your STD results are protected health information. Any health care provider or lab you work with must follow strict federal privacy rules. Unless you specifically authorize another person to view your results, they will only be shared with you.
Do I Need an Appointment for Testing in Chattanooga, Tennessee?
Appointment policies vary by location, so call ahead or check the clinic website before you head in for a test. Some clinics or testing centers accept walk-ins or have same-day or next-day appointments.
Can Minors Get STD Testing Without a Parent?
In Chattanooga, minors are usually able to consent to STD testing and treatment without a parent or guardian. Tennessee law allows health care providers to offer STD screenings and care to minors when it’s deemed medically appropriate. It’s still a good idea to contact the testing location directly to confirm consent and confidentiality policies.
How Fast Will I Get My Test Results in Chattanooga, Tennessee?
Your STD test results time will depend on the test. Some clinics offer rapid HIV testing, which can offer results in less than 30 minutes. Bacterial STD testing (chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis) takes several days to get results, while viral STD testing (HPV, herpes, or HIV) results can take just one to two days.
Free STD Testing Centers in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Community-based STD testing organizations help expand access to sexual health services by offering affordable, confidential testing and treatment.
You may choose a community testing center if cost, insurance coverage, privacy, or access to a regular healthcare provider is a concern. While some centers charge a small fee, many offer free or low-cost STD testing and additional support services. Below are examples of community-based resources where reduced-cost testing may be available.
- Dodson Avenue Community Health CenterAddress: 1200 Dodson Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37406 Number: (423) 778-2800
- Homeless Health Care CenterAddress: 730 East 11th Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403 Number: (423) 209-5800
- Hamilton County Health Department – Main CampusAddress: 921 East 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403 Number: (423) 209-8250
- Cempa Community CareAddress: 1000 East 3rd Street, 3rd floor Chattanooga, TN 37403 Number: (423) 265-2273
- Choice Health NetworkAddress: 5721 Marlin Road 6100 Building, Suites 3500 and 3600 Chattanooga, TN 37411 Number: (423) 803-2580