Student Health, USG, GSG to provide free STI screenings

The screenings will last until April 5 and check for HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhea.

By JUSTIN HA

February 7, 2025

Student Health will provide tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. The event is paid for by a USG and GSG grant. (Henry Kofman / Daily Trojan)

Student Health is partnering with the Undergraduate Student Government and Graduate Student Government to fund free sexually transmitted infection testing starting next week, Chief Campus Health Officer Dr. Sarah Van Orman said in a briefing with campus media Tuesday morning.

From Feb. 10 to April 5, students will be able to receive STI testing from Student Health without requiring insurance or out-of-pocket costs. Student Health will provide tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. The event is paid for by a USG and GSG grant.

“This should be something that people think about as just a regular part of their health,” Van Orman said. “We’re really grateful for the partnership with USG and GSG.”

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Van Orman said it is recommended to get STI testing annually. Following a test, the Los Angeles Department of Health will contact the student and assist with any necessary contact tracing.

“You don’t actually have to see a provider. You don’t have to talk to anyone,” Van Orman said. “For many students, it’s fast. It’s convenient.”

Van Orman also recommended that students who plan to travel internationally during spring break check in with Student Health’s travel clinic. The travel clinic helps students determine if any vaccines are required for international travel.

In addition to STI testing, Student Health also hosted the first blood drive of the semester Feb. 5 with the next drive happening in March.

Student Health will also be hosting a “Just Ask Men” empowerment event in February to promote men’s mental health awareness. The event will feature meet-and-greets with campus mentors, games and a raffle for a Fender bass guitar.

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