Sexually transmitted infections and diseases continue to be at an all-time high in the United States.
Last year, more than 2 million cases of the three nationally reported STDs — chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis — were reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the highest number ever.
With young adults accounting for nearly two-thirds of the reported chlamydia diagnoses, and half of the gonorrhea diagnoses, STI testing, prevention, and treatment continues to be a top priority for the Pat Walker Health Center.
Getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have an STD! Although treatable and curable, majority of affected persons experience no symptoms, leaving most cases going undiagnosed and untreated. When left untreated, a STD can put you at risk for severe and potentially permanent health effects.
The health center offers the “Get Yourself Tested” (GYT) walk-in clinic for chlamydia and gonorrhea — the two most common STDs among college students.
If you are sexually active or have never been tested for chlamydia and/or gonorrhea, you should seriously consider getting tested, it’s the only way to know for sure!
How does the clinic work?
The GYT Clinic is available from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Saturday the health center is open.
The GYT Clinic offers simple, easy and convenient urine testing for patients experiencing no symptoms, and results are returned within 2-3 business days. The test can be billed to your insurance provider, or you can self-pay.
If you are experiencing symptoms, you will need to make an appointment with a medical provider for further testing and treatment.
Learn more about the GYT Clinic and STDs at https://health.uark.edu.