Campus Life

University Health Services offers 'self-test' option for STDs

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — University Health Services offers a self-testing option for students wanting to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases.

The self-testing model allows students to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea without scheduling an appointment or being seen by a clinician. Instead, students go directly to the lab on the fourth floor of the Student Health Center at University Park to be tested. Students can request a “self-test" from the receptionist, who will hand them the test to be completed in a nearby restroom. 

Students are advised to arrive by 4:30 p.m. at the latest Monday through Friday. Details about the test procedures are on the UHS website at studentaffairs.psu.edu/health/gettested/.

Self-testing is for those students who are not experiencing any symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease. It is important to remember that most people who have an STD don’t have symptoms; testing regularly protects individuals and their partners. 

“The STD self-test option enables students to have testing done privately and conveniently” says Dr. Robin Oliver, a gynecologist at University Health Services.

Self-testing isn’t for everyone. Appointments are recommended for those who are experiencing symptoms; those with known exposure in the past week to an infected partner; or those who request oral or anal testing. 

The fee for the self-testing of chlamydia and gonorrhea is $30. Students can pay at the time of service, UHS can bill the student’s account (charges will not list specific reasons for the visit), or charges can be submitted to the student’s insurance. Students should be aware that private insurance companies sometimes notify the subscriber (often parents) as to what tests are done for covered individuals.

Students will receive test results within two weeks of their appointment either by secure message or phone call. If they test positive, UHS will recommend an appointment to discuss treatment options.

Last Updated January 13, 2016