Whitman-Walker Health
A DC institution since 1978, providing affirming primary and sexual health care, free HIV and STI testing, and PrEP.
Visit official site →1. LGBTQ-Affirming Sexual Health Care in Washington DC
Public health department options
DC Health runs free STI and HIV testing at its sexual health clinic in Anacostia.
2. Free Testing Finders (Nationwide)
- CDC GetTested · gettested.cdc.gov
The CDC's official locator for free, fast, and confidential testing sites near any ZIP code. \n - Planned Parenthood · plannedparenthood.org/health-center
Federally vetted sexual health provider; most locations offer STI testing on a sliding scale, often same-week. \n - HIV.gov locator · locator.hiv.gov
Federal locator for HIV testing, PrEP, and care services nationwide.
3. What Testing Costs in Washington DC
Typical costs, so nobody gets surprised: public health department clinics are usually free or under $50 per infection tested. Community LGBTQ health centers are free or sliding-scale (they will work with you regardless of insurance). Private labs and at-home kits typically run $100-$200 for a full panel; if you have insurance under the ACA, STI screening is covered as preventive care at no cost at in-network providers. PrEP is free under nearly all insurance thanks to federal requirements, and the manufacturer's assistance program covers uninsured patients in most states.
4. Quick Answers
- How often should gay and bi men test? The CDC's guidance for men who have sex with men: at least annually, and every 3 to 6 months if you have multiple partners or a new partner. PrEP users test quarterly as part of care.
- Do I need symptoms to get tested? No. Most STIs, including most chlamydia and gonorrhea cases, show no symptoms. Testing on a schedule is the only reliable way to know.
- Is it confidential? Yes. Public clinics and health centers keep records confidential; in most states, minors can consent to STI testing without a parent. Anonymous HIV testing is widely available.