Walk-In STD, HIV, STI & HPV Testing in Washington, DC & Maryland
If you think you were exposed to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) and live in the Washington, DC or Silver Spring, Maryland area, Fast Track Urgent Care can provide you with the appropriate test. We understand STD testing can be somewhat embarrassing, which is why our testing is confidential. We are using a new lab that has helped reduce cost by 25% and uses PCR technology, which provides more accurate results.
Rapid STD/STI Testing
If you’re looking for answers about rapid STD/STI testing, it helps to know what the term really means and what to expect before you come in. Many people search for immediate reassurance after a potential exposure, especially when symptoms appear unexpectedly, or when there are no symptoms at all. At Fast Track Urgent Care, we offer confidential testing and work with a lab that uses advanced PCR technology, which is known for its ability to detect infections with high sensitivity.
What Is Rapid STD Testing?
So, what is rapid STD testing? In general, rapid STD testing refers to STD/STI screening that can be started quickly without the need for a scheduled appointment, often through walk-in care. It may also refer to tests that have a faster lab processing timeline compared to older methods. “Rapid” can mean the visit itself is quick, the specimen collection is straightforward, and the testing process is optimized for efficient turnaround. Since there is not one universal rapid test for every infection, your provider can help guide which tests are best based on symptoms, timing, and risk level.
How Long Do Rapid STD Tests Take?
Another common question is: how long do rapid STD tests take? That can depend on which infections you are being screened for and what type of sample is required (urine, blood, swab, or physical exam). Some steps, like check-in, a short evaluation, and sample collection can often be completed in a single visit. The timing of results can vary by test type, but PCR-based testing is designed to deliver accurate detection and may reduce delays compared to traditional approaches.
Stop by one of our two locations or give us a call for more information.
STD & HIV Testing Hours
Monday through Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Fast Track Urgent Care Silver Spring
13428 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20904
Fast Track Urgent Care Kensington
10540 Connecticut Ave, Kensington, MD 20895
STD Symptoms
Even if you do not show symptoms, you should consider STD testing if you’ve had unprotected sex. Some infections do not cause any symptoms, but you can still transfer them to your partner. Additionally, all types of sexual activity can spread STDs. Some infections transfer through body fluids, and some are spread through skin-to-skin contact. Even if you use a condom or other form of protection, you could still transfer or contract an STD.
Some common STD symptoms include:
- Genital sores
- Genital discharge
- Itching
- Odors
- Burning during urination
HIV Symptoms
Within a few weeks of getting an HIV infection, you may develop symptoms; however, sometimes you may not have any symptoms at all. Symptoms can vary, depending on the individual and what stage of the disease you are in. Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Lumps
Because there is no single test for every sexually transmitted disease, Fast Track Urgent Care’s health care providers can help you determine which STD tests to complete. STD testing can include a physical exam, urine sample, blood sample or discharge or saliva sample.
Urgent STD Testing
At Fast Track Urgent Care, we provide the following STD testing in the Washington, DC and Silver Spring, Maryland area:
- HIV/AIDS testing – HIV testing generally involves a blood test to detect HIV antibodies or HIV infection. A urine or saliva test can also be used to detect HIV.
- Chlamydia testing – One of the most common bacterial STIs in the United States, chlamydia testing usually requires a body fluid or urine sample to check for chlamydia bacteria.
- Genital warts/HPV testing – Genital warts, or HPV, are generally diagnosed through a physical examination. HPV infections are extremely common and don’t necessarily show symptoms through genital warts.
- Gonorrhea testing – Doctors can detect gonorrhea by testing a sample of body fluid or urine. Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection and doesn’t always cause symptoms.
- Hepatitis – The various strands of the hepatitis virus can be detected with a blood test.
- Syphilis testing – Doctors screen for syphilis with a blood, body fluid or tissue test.
- Herpes testing – Herpes testing requires a cell, fluid, blood or urine sample. A herpes infection is often marked by an outbreak of genital sores.
- And more.
Why Timing Matters for Rapid STD/STI Testing
No test can guarantee perfect results in every situation, especially if testing is done too soon. Some infections require a short “window period” before they show up on a test. If you test right away and your provider believes it is too early for reliable detection, they may recommend follow-up testing after a specific amount of time. Your Fast Track Urgent Care clinician can explain the best testing timeline based on your situation, symptoms, and medical history.
Choosing the Right Rapid STD/STI Tests
If you have concerns about accuracy, the best step is to speak with a provider who can match you with the appropriate test(s). Because STD testing isn’t “one-size-fits-all,” it may include different sample types or screening combinations depending on what your provider is evaluating. The goal is to help you get the right testing plan and the information you need to protect your health and your partner(s).
Visit Fast Track Urgent Care for STD & HIV Testing
Are you searching for “STD testing near me?” If you live in the Washington, DC and Silver Spring, MD area and are looking for an STD testing center, visit Fast Track Urgent Care’s walk-in clinic today. Our friendly doctors and clinicians are more than qualified and can immediately assess your STD symptoms and provide the right treatment. Fast Track Urgent Care is open seven days a week and also offers an on-site laboratory.
Fast Track Urgent Care accepts many insurance plans, providing convenient and affordable STD testing to patients Washington, DC and Silver Spring, MD area. Contact Fast Track Urgent Care or visit our walk-in clinic today.
Rapid STD/STI Testing FAQs for Washington, DC & Maryland
Let’s delve into some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from patients:
Can I get rapid STD/STI testing without an appointment?
Yes. Many patients choose urgent care because they can walk in and begin the testing process right away. If you’re concerned about possible exposure, it’s better to be evaluated sooner rather than delaying care.
What is rapid STD testing compared to traditional STD testing?
Rapid testing commonly refers to the speed of starting the process and the efficiency of modern lab methods. Some testing options are designed to streamline evaluation and deliver results faster than older testing methods.
How long do rapid STD tests take during the visit?
Most of the in-clinic time is related to registration, a brief medical evaluation, and sample collection. The total visit length varies, but many people appreciate that the testing can be initiated in one appointment.
Are rapid STD tests accurate for every infection?
Accuracy depends on the specific STI and the technology used. PCR-based testing is widely used for certain infections because it can detect infection markers with strong reliability when collected correctly and performed at the right time.
Do hospitals do rapid STD testing or is urgent care better?
Hospitals may offer testing, but urgent care clinics are often a convenient alternative for patients who want walk-in access, seven-day service, and confidential evaluation in a less overwhelming setting.
Urgent Care Service Area
In addition to our walk-in clinics in Silver Spring and Kensington, we also provide urgent care services for people who live and work in the following Maryland areas: Adelphi, Ashton, Aspen Hill, Beltsville, Bethesda, Brookeville, Burtonsville, Cabin John, Calverton , Chevy Chase, Cloverly, Colesville, College Park, Gaithersburg, Garrett Park, Germantown, Glen Echo, Glenmont, Hillandale, Hyattsville, Kemp Mill, Kensington, Langley Park, Laurel, Layhill, Norbeck, North Bethesda, North Potomac, Norwood, Olney, Potomac, Rockville, Sandy Spring, Scaggsville, Silver Spring, Spencerville, Takoma Park, and Wheaton. We also provide urgent care services in the Washington, DC area.
