Looking at my websites statistical data, I can tell how people found the site, the search engine they used and the keyword phrase. I often go through the list just for fun to see what people are searching for. Before paranoia sets in: I can’t see who you are, just how you got here.
Recently I’ve noticed a couple of search phrases like, “gay phoenix hiv test“‘. Another was searching for “std clinics“. This reminded me of the time when I was first coming out and my first gay friend wanted to make sure I knew how and where to get tested. I’m thinking I could do the same thing for all of my gay little brothers and sisters out there with this post.
Where to Get Tested
Normally I prefer dealing with my “gay” family doctor for all of my health care needs. But for this particular area, I feel its best to go to the county clinic. They have all the latest testing equipment and a lab on-site for immediate results. If you go in for an HIV test, they’ll also screen you for other STD’s right there and treat you right there.
Now, now… its not as bad as you’re thinking. For many, the words “county” and “clinic” bring about images of the poor, long lines and even longer waiting. waiting times. Luckily though, if you live in Phoenix, Maricopa County has a brand new facility near 16th Street and Roosevelt. OK, so its not the best of neighborhoods, but the facility itself is clean, safe and secure.
The building is multifunctional, it houses departments for health care for children, prenatal health, on-site pharmacy… read: Its not exclusively STD’s or HIV. So you’re not being labeled someone who is gay or who might have HIV as you walk in the front door.
In an effort to streamline things, I am thinking Maricopa County must have taken a few design tips from the Motor Vehicle Department. Feels like you’re there to renew your license or register your new car.
Your First Visit to the Clinic
When you go, go EARLY, like before 8am. Go on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, bring $20 to cover the testing fee as well as your ID. Also consider bringing along a magazine, book or personal project to keep you occupied if its a long wait.
Maricopa County Department of Public Health
1645 E Roosevelt St
Phoenix, AZ 85006
(602) 506-3011
www.maricopa.gov/Public_Health
As you walk in to the main lobby, straight ahead you’ll see a county employee stationed at an information desk . Check in there, tell the clerk you are there for an STD Checkup.
They’ll give you a clipboard to fill in your name and some other information about your visit. Next you are given a number, find a seat in the lobby area behind the help desk. Your number will be called, go up to the service desk as to get your “license”. You’ll then pay your $20 fee and be directed to the next waiting area. This is at the far west end of the lobby hallway, next to the TV monitor. If the TV is off, turn it on and watch the news. You may be waiting an hour or more.
Try not to think too much about those around you. You’re probably all in the same boat. There’s a cute young straight looking guy looking all depressed on the bench across from you. You wonder about the escapades that got him there. A Latino couple, her looking all prego, him looking all gangsta studly, not sure if they’re visit is for an STD or prenatal care. That collegiate looking chick with the laptop, can she be in the same boat as me? Probably.
When your number is finally called, you will go back into the medical area where a doctor or doctor’s assistant will ask you tons of questions about your sexual activities, drug use, partners, where you find sex, where you have sex. LOTS of questions you really don’t feel comfortable answering. Just get over it and do it. There’s nothing these employees haven’t heard before, getting a reaction out of them would most likely be difficult.
The times I have gone, I’ve sensed at least half of the people I’ve spoken with there are either gay or gay friendly. The workers are great, especially considering its a government agency, where you expect government customer service.
After their interrogation and prodding and such, you are sent to yet another person who again asks you even more personal questions. Its like deja-vu. This time the person is trying to determine if you’ve been spreading a disease and if so who they need to track down and have come in for testing.
This is a VERY awkward time. Will you recall that guy four months ago who gave you a blow job? Do you still have his number? What will he think if Maricopa County calls him down to be tested? All of that doesn’t really matter. What matters is that he may not know he’s got something, he needs to know. So just cooperate. They won’t use your name when they contact said head giver.
Now back to another waiting room. You’ll get your test results. Treatment plan if required and they’ll send you on your way.
Other Testing Options
I know the Chute and Chute Too both have testing on certain days. Check their schedules and information lines.
http://www.chuteaz.com/Schedulepage.html
Your General Practitioner
Most family doctors can handle testing, some will send you to the county clinic. If you are looking for a good gay doctor, try my doctor:
Dr. Thanes Vanig
Spectrum Medical Group
52 East Monterey Way,
Phoenix, AZ
spectrummedgroup.com
Note: Dr. Vanig is very popular in the community and thus its very difficult to get in right away. Please don’t go with that other local gay (Fisher) doctor because he can get you in same day. Please just question WHY is he so available. I’ve heard Doug Cunningham is good. Although whenever I’ve tried to see him they’ve always given me his assistant.
