The LGBTQ Center of Long Beach has begun expanding services to include comprehensive testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), according to the organization. The pilot project is offering the free service two days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and it will include screenings for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and hepatitis B and C.
“We have been working for nearly two years on this project to provide free STI testing to our community” , said Ismael Morales, director of Health & Wellness Services at the center. “Having provided free, rapid HIV testing since 2010, we have learned that there is a great need in Long Beach for LGBTQ affirming and inclusive sexual health services that include STI testing.”
The STI testing program will enhance the current rapid HIV testing program that has been successfully conducting over 7,000 tests since 2010, according to LGBTQ Center officials. The organization will be collaborating with St. Mary’s Medical Center to provide a mobile testing clinic and medical staff during the pilot period that will last through the end of the year. During the pilot period, center staff will collect data and feedback from the community to develop a program that meets the needs of the LGBTQ community in Long Beach.
Additionally, the center will be remodeling its current health-services space to accommodate additional STI testing services, including an exam room, additional lab space and office space for new and current health services staff.
According to the 2013 Community Health Assessment gathered by the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Long Beach incidence rates of STI infections are high and continue to outpace both Los Angeles County and California. In 2011, there were 438 cases of gonorrhea reported in Long Beach.
This program is made possible by funding provided in part by the Los Angeles County Health Department, Division of HIV and STD Programs, proceeds collected at the 2014 Long Beach AIDS Ride and contributions from donors and sustainable members of The LGBTQ Center of Long Beach.
Testing will take place at The LGBTQ Center of Long Beach, 2017 E. 4th St. To make an appointment, call (562) 434-4455, email Morales at imorales@centerlb.org or visit centerlb.org .
