Get Tested, Stay Fabulous: Your Ultimate Guide to STI and HIV Testing in Palm Springs

Welcome to Palm Springs, handsome! It’s a sun-drenched playground for gay men from all over the world. With its iconic mid-century modern architecture, stunning desert landscapes, and thriving LGBTQ+ scene, there's nowhere else quite like it. 

As we let our hair down and indulge in the fun there is to be had here, it's crucial to be responsible and stay on top of our sexual health. After all, nothing ruins a fabulous vacation like worrying about STIs or HIV, right? So let's dive into the easiest local clinics in Palm Springs for STI and HIV testing.

If you have anything you’d like to contribute to this post, please email us and let us know (and let us know why you think it’s important to include)!

In the meantime, here are two of the top clinics to keep you feeling clear and worry-free during your Palm Springs getaway:

1. Palm Springs TEST

• Offers free, confidential, and rapid testing for HIV, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia

• Walk-ins welcome; no appointment necessary

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

• Location: 140 N. Luring Drive. Suite D, Palm Springs, CA 92262

• Phone: (760) 299-6487

2. DAP Health

• Provides testing and treatment for HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia

• Offers same-day appointments and accepts most insurance plans

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm

• Location: 1695 N. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

• Phone: (760) 992-0492

Now let's compare these fabulous clinics:

• Palm Springs TEST was founded as the first FREE clinic in Riverside County to test and treat sexually transmitted infections, and they are free of charge for everyone. 

• Palm Springs TEST offers free testing, while DAP Health accepts most insurance plans.

• DAP Health offers a wider range of testing options, including Gonorrhea and Chlamydia testing, in addition to HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis C testing available at Palm Springs TEST.

• Palm Springs TEST tests and treats Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia. They do rapid testing (but do not treat) HIV, Hep C. They do not provide PEP.

• While all tests are handled at the facility, Palm Springs TEST requires outside lab work in order to test for Syphilis. There are several LabCorp locations in the area available for walk-ins and Palm Springs TEST covers the entire cost.

• DAP Health takes a holistic approach to sexual health, offering not just testing and treatment, but also comprehensive care, support, and prevention services tailored to the individual's needs.

• For those who may need financial assistance, DAP Health provides a sliding scale payment system, ensuring that everyone has access to the essential testing and treatment services they need.

Looking for even more options? Check out these online resources for additional clinics and testing opportunities:

GetTested 

A comprehensive database of HIV, STI, and viral hepatitis testing services and support centers.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Offers free HIV testing and low-cost STI testing at numerous locations.

Planned Parenthood

Provides a range of sexual health services, including STI and HIV testing and treatment.

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Palm Springs is truly the ultimate destination for gay men seeking an unforgettable vacation. With year-round sunshine, captivating cultural events, and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, it's no wonder this desert oasis has become a mecca for LGBTQ+ travelers. And with such accessible and easy-to-navigate STI and HIV testing options, you can focus on making lasting connections with new friends, soaking up the sun, and living your best life in fabulous "Gay Palm Springs." Remember, darling, stay safe, stay healthy, and above all – stay fabulous!