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Sexually Transmitted Diseases

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We maintain an aggressive sexually transmitted disease program designed to:

  • Identify cases of sexually transmitted disease
  • Assure that all cases have been treated correctly
  • Educate the public on risk factors and prevention methods
  • Break the chain of infection by locating and notifying contacts of known infections

In 2009, the nursing staff made 2773 client contacts, obtained specimens for 5587 diagnostic tests, and administered 672 treatments.

What if I don't have a health care provider?

If you do not have a health care provider, consider contacting the providers listed below.

Ozarks HELP

The herpes support group provides support and educational information for people diagnosed with herpes. Friends or family members of those affected are welcome. Participation is free and no registration is required. See our Ozarks HELP Flyer for more information.

STD Testing

If left untreated, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause serious complications.

The health department's in-house clinic provides confidential testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases and confidential/anonymous HIV testing at no cost to the client.

Testing is provided at the Harold K. Bengsch Building. Please be aware of the following special hours for testing (subject to change without notice):

  • Walk-in Clinic (based on space availability) - Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Doors open at 7:30am, then registration begins at 8:00am and continues until openings are filled for the day.
  • By appointment - Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, call 417-864-1684 to schedule an appointment.
  • Results - Monday-Friday 8:00am-11:00am and 1:00pm-4:00pm

If you have been taking antibiotics, please be sure to tell your nurse BEFORE testing, as this may affect the accuracy of your test results.

Be sure to let your health care provider know if a recent sexual contact has been diagnosed with gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis or trichomoniasis.

You should follow these testing guidelines before coming to get tested.

Tests We Provide

The STD Clinic provides no-cost, confidential testing for the following sexually transmitted infections:

  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia
  • Syphilis
  • HIV
  • Trichomoniasis (females)
  • Genital herpes (only if lesion is present)
  • Hepatitis B ($10.00 fee)

Tests We Do Not Provide

Please contact your health care provider to see if they offer the following tests. These tests are not offered at the health department.

  • Hepatitis C tests
  • Herpes "blood tests"
  • HPV tests (We can provide genital warts (HPV) visual inspections only.)
  • PAP smears


Sexually Transmitted Diseases Staff

  • P.J. Dye, STD Clinic Coordinator
  • Diana Hannen, BSN, RN, Community Health Nurse
  • Carolyn Slavens, BSN, RN, Community Health Nurse
  • Robin Williams, RN, HIV Case Manager

Common Questions