Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are an extremely common occurrence, with millions of people getting infected every year. They are caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic agents, and can have serious long-term effects if left untreated. It is crucial to get tested for STDs regularly, especially if one is sexually active. Quest Diagnostics is a well-known provider of diagnostic testing services that offer various types of medical testing, including STD testing. If you are wondering whether Quest Diagnostics tests for STDs or not, this article is for you. Read on for the ultimate guide on Quest Diagnostics and STD testing.
What is Quest Diagnostics?
Quest Diagnostics is a leading testing and diagnostic laboratory in the United States. Established in 1967, it has a network of approximately 2,200 patient service centres, more than 44,000 employees and generates annual revenues of nearly $8.8 billion.
Quest Diagnostics specializes in laboratory testing and diagnostic services, providing a range of tests to healthcare professionals, patients and employers. They offer a broad range of tests, including categories such as:
- Diagnostic tests (e.g., blood, urine and other body fluid tests, genetic testing, etc.,)
- Cancer diagnostics, including genetic testing
- Prenatal and women’s health services
- Wellness and preventive services, including biometric screenings and vaccination services
Does Quest Diagnostics Test for STDs?
Yes, Quest Diagnostics does offer STD testing. They provide various types of tests for sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, Herpes Simplex Virus, and HIV, among others. Tests may differ depending on the type of STD being tested. Quest Diagnostics also provides confidential and private STD testing. At any of its patient service centers, patients’ details are kept confidential and test results are secured, effectively preventing the spread of STDs.
What Types of STD Tests are Offered by Quest Diagnostics?
Quest Diagnostics offers various types of STD tests to diagnose infections. These tests are:
1. Blood Tests
Quest Diagnostics blood tests are used by healthcare professionals to determine whether a patient is infected with HIV or not. The blood tests they offer are HIV antibody tests, HIV antigen/antibody combination tests, and supplemental tests such as Western Blot and Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) tests. Blood tests may show a positive result within a few weeks of exposure. These tests are reliable but may require more time to produce results.
2. Urine Tests
Urine tests offered by Quest Diagnostics diagnose Chlamydia and Gonorrhea infections. Urine samples must be collected before 2 pm and should not be taken after urination within 1 hour.
3. Swab Tests
Quest Diagnostics swab tests are used to diagnose a vast range of STDs. Swab tests are done by collecting samples from the affected areas of the genitals, mouth, anus, and throat. These tests are often used to diagnose bacterial STDs like Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis, as well as viral infections such as Herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV).
How to Get Tested for STDs at Quest Diagnostics
The process of getting tested for STDs at Quest Diagnostics is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps:
1. Locate the nearest Quest Diagnostics patient service center
Use the Quest Diagnostics website and find the nearest patient service center from your location. You may use the website to schedule an appointment, check the services offered, and the cost of each test.
2. Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment online, over the phone, or in person. Although scheduling is not required, it is recommended to avoid waiting in long queues. Be sure to bring a government-issued ID to verify your identity before conducting the test.
3. Get Tested
When it’s time for your appointment, provide the testing laboratory with your prescribed test and pay the fee. Be sure to provide a urine or blood sample depending on the type of test that was recommended. The laboratory technician will collect the sample/s and send them to one of the Quest Diagnostics reference laboratories.
4. Get Your Results
You may access your test results online, but it is recommended for patients to make a follow-up appointment with their healthcare provider to discuss their test results. Some states in the US require that certain STDs like HIV be reported to the state. In such instances, the patient may be contacted by the health department if a laboratory report is positive, and may be advised to seek medical treatment.
Costs of STD Testing at Quest Diagnostics
The cost of STD testing at Quest Diagnostics depends on the type and number of tests performed. If patients have health insurance, the full charge for testing may or may not be covered. Quest Diagnostics may be contracted with the insurance company, and thus the insurance company may provide coverage through its out-of-network benefits. It is important to verify from the insurance company to know which tests are covered and how much is covered. Otherwise, payment is expected at the time of service, including payment for any uncovered tests.
The Importance of STD Testing
STDs can have serious consequences if left untreated. Testing for STDs on a regular basis is critical to ensure early detection, early treatment, and prevention of further spread of STDs. It is important to get tested and treated promptly if one has symptoms or thinks he or she may be at risk.
To reduce the spread of STDs, it is recommended that individuals in sexual relationships should use safe sex practices such as using a condom when engaging in sexual activity. Also, it is important to note that abstinence from sexual activity is the safest and most effective way to prevent STDs.
Conclusion
Quest Diagnostics is an extensive network of diagnostic laboratories that offers many healthcare services, including STD testing. A vast range of STD tests are offered, including blood, urine, and swab tests which are done in a confidentially managed service to maintain privacy. Testing for STDs at Quest Diagnostics is ideal for individuals who want accurate and timely results. In conclusion, it is worth investigating further to explore the range of benefits that Quest Diagnostics’ STD testing can provide.
References
- American Sexuals Health Association. (n.d). Testing Resources. Retrieved February 2022. https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/testing/
- Quest Diagnostics. (n.d.). Diagnostic Insights Blog. Retrieved February 2022, from https://blog.questdiagnostics.com/true-or-false-are-chlamydia-and-gonorrhea-tests-the-same-for-men-and-women/.
- US Department of Human and Health Services. (2021). Common STIs. Retrieved February 2022 https://www.womenshealth.gov/sexual-and-reproductive-health/sexually-transmitted-infections/common-stis
FAQs: Does Quest Diagnostics Test for STDs?
1. Does Quest Diagnostics test for STDs?
Yes, Quest Diagnostics does test for STDs. They offer a variety of testing including blood tests, urine tests, and swab tests.
2. What types of STDs tests are available at Quest Diagnostics?
Quest Diagnostics tests for a range of STDs including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Herpes, and HIV.
3. How can I get tested for STDs at Quest Diagnostics?
To get tested for STDs at Quest Diagnostics, you need to locate the nearest patient service center, schedule your appointment, provide a urine or blood sample, and get your results.
4. How much does an STD test cost at Quest Diagnostics?
The cost of an STD test at Quest Diagnostics depends on the type of test ordered, and whether it is covered by health insurance or not.
5. When should I get tested for STDs?
It’s recommended to get tested for STDs regularly if one is sexually active or engaging in high-risk sexual behavior. It is also essential to undergo testing if you experience symptoms or if you are aware that you have been exposed to someone with an STD.