Philadelphia High School STI Screening Program (HSSP)
Meeting young people where they are to offer free testing and education.
Philadelphia High School STI Screening Program
In the U.S., nearly half of all new sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) diagnosed are among young people ages 15 to 24.*
But many STDs have no symptoms—and many youth lack the knowledge or skills to navigate healthy sexual development.
*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Here’s how to help:
HSSP visits Philadelphia high schools to give a presentation on STDs and hand out test kits. All testing is voluntary, and personal information is kept private. We’re here to help Philly students stay healthy.
Learn more about the diseases we test for:
Learn About STDsWatch a quick video to see how it works. Thousands voluntarily participate every year!
Need your HSSP test results?
Or call 215-685-6737
Our Three Main Goals:
- Identify and treat chlamydia and gonorrhea among high schoolers.
- Educate students about STDs and risk factors.
- Reduce risky sexual behaviors.
How the Program Works
- 1
The Setup
- HSSP connects with Philadelphia high schools to .
- Dates and times are chosen based on student enrollment and availability, to ensure all students can participate (presentation groups of 60 or fewer are ideal).
- Important considerations:
- Choosing a presentation room near the restrooms.
- Providing a private space where HSSP staff can sort paperwork and specimens after each presentation.
- 2
The Presentation
- 3
The Testing
- All students are given a brown-bag test kit.
- All students complete a short form then visit the restrooms. In the privacy of the restrooms, students will choose to test or not to test.
- All students submit the brown-bag test kits to HSSP staff.
- HSSP staff sorts paperwork/specimens in a private area.
- 4
The Follow-Up
- Students can choose to get test result notifications via text or email. Or they can call the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) for results.
- For those who test positive:
- PDPH staff will follow up to provide free treatment, condoms, and partner services.
Need your HSSP test results?
Patient PortalOr call 215-685-6737
Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Education and Testing
Watch to Learn More
Bring HSSP to your school!
Submit the form below to request your desired presentation and testing date(s).
Upcoming HSSP Events
September 2026
Not a school but would still like to request STI testing and/or education for your organization?
Get more information for other organizations here.
Get free condoms.
Support your students with access to this free resource and ensure they're able to make healthy decisions!
Request Condoms