NEW YORK CITY — City clinics will offer free or low-cost HIV and STD screenings for anyone aged 12 or older, the Health Department announced Wednesday.
Residents can visit one of the eight STD clinics across the city without an appointment Mondays through Fridays, as well as on Saturdays at its Upper West Side and Fort Greene locations, according to the agency.
“This expansion of services will connect more New Yorkers to care and is one component of our citywide effort to reduce health disparities,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett in a statement.
“This City remains committed to providing affordable STD services and promoting safer sex for all. Being sure of your status is an essential part of a healthy and happy sex life. The only STD test you should worry about is the one you don’t take.”
The program is part of the city’s Plan to End the AIDS Epidemic, which dedicated $23 million for prevention and health care programs, according to officials.
People can get tested for diseases including gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.
Officials expect a 30 to 50 percent increase in screenings.
Clinic locations and hours can be found on the Health Department’s website.
People younger than 19 do not have to pay a fee for the tests, the department said. Older people will be assessed a fee based on a sliding scale that takes into account medical insurance and their ability to pay.
