Durham County - NC - Public Health
HomeFrequently Asked Questions About STD
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1. Is there a charge for STD Services?
No. STD and HIV testing is provided free of charge.
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2. What do I need to bring to be seen in the STD Clinic?
The Durham County Health Department will not deny STD/HIV testing services to any person requesting them due to lack of documentation. If available, we kindly request identification, proof of income and proof of insurance.
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3. How long will my visit last?
The Testing Only service will require 30 minutes or less. The STD Clinician visit will require about 1 hour. You should schedule enough time to include the registration process and laboratory services.
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4. Can I make an appointment?
Appointments preferred, but walk-ins on a first come first serve basis. Please call to make appointment at 919-560-7600. Due to the high volume of calls, please be patient with us as we return your call. Thank you.
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5. Is my visit private?
Your confidentiality is our first priority. Some communicable diseases are confidentially reportable by Federal and State laws. If you test positive for HIV or syphilis you may be contacted by a local or State Disease Intervention Specialist. Your privacy will be maintained by all providers that handle your information.
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6. I’m under 18, do I need my parent’s permission to be seen in the STD Clinic?
North Carolina law allows minors to consent for themselves for STD/HIV testing services.
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7. How can I get my STD/HIV test results?
The clinic will contact any person who tests positive for an STD or HIV. Make sure you update your contact information at every visit. If you would like to obtain negative test results you may ask registration staff to activate patient portal access that will allow you to view most test results. You may also leave a message for test results at 919-560-7600. To obtain paper copies of test results, please return to Clinic 6 and see a counselor.
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8. I’m scared to come alone, can my friend come with me during my visit?
While you are welcome to come to the clinic with a friend, partner or family member, all STD visits will be conducted with only the patient present to ensure confidentiality (unless language interpretation is requested).
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9. If I need medicine, how much does it cost?
The DCoDPH provides certain STD medications free of charge. Other medications may be available at a reduced rate based on your income. See the pharmacy page for more information.
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10. I tested positive for an STD at another location, can I get treatment at the DCoDPH?
Please call 919-560-7600to schedule an appointment for treatment. Please bring any documentation of your test results from you doctor with you to your visit.
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11. What are sexually transmitted diseases?
STDs are infections that spread through intimate heterosexual or homosexual contact. Anyone who has sexual contact with someone who is infected can get a sexually transmitted disease.
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12. Can STDs be cured?
Depending on the type of STD, treatment is available. Many STDs can be cured. In some cases, the infection can be controlled but not cured. It is essential to treat all infected or exposed sex partners before resuming sexual relations. Otherwise, the cycle of infection will continue.
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13. Why is it important to know about STDs?
STDs can have serious consequences, including infertility, adverse effects on unborn children, and even death. It is important to diagnose and treat STDs, both to preserve the health of the individual and to prevent the spread of disease to others.
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14. Where can I get tested for STDs?
In Clinic 6 at Durham County Public Health