What do we mean by GUM? It is an acronym for Genito-Urinary Medicine
. This term is widely used by National Health Service (UK) for their sexual health clinics. There are a large number of NHS GUM clinics all over the UK out of which 30 are located in London.
GUM clinics usually provide anonymous Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs) testing without having being referred by your medical practitioner. It is not necessary that all the GUM clinics run under NHS, there are other alternatives as well.
Who Run GUM clinics?
It is not necessary that all the GUM clinics run under NHS. GUM is simply the name given to clinics offering sexual health practice, especially STI testing. Private GUM clinics can also be located in UK. Share:
What does 'walk-in' mean?
By walk in we mean that you are free to come without any beforehand appointment. It is really convenient for the people who have tough schedules or busy working hours.
Do all GUM clinics offer a walk-in service?
It is not necessary that all the GUM clinics offer walk in services. There are many clinics offering walk in services. The main problem with them is that they have long waiting times and advice you to ring before visit.
So, is private a better option?
Private clinics definitely offer you fast, cautious and cordial walk in services. They open at the convenient hours like in the evening or weekends so that you need not to take off from your work. One great benefits of such private clinics is that you need not to wait long for your turn,
What type of Test These Clinics offer?
GUM clinics usually offer STI test ranges from Chlamydia to HIV. Tests offer vary from clinic to clinic. Many clinics offer comprehensive range of testing with more AIDS test options. Similarly many NHS clinics offer only HIV test. This test gives you the correct results for last 3 months of infection. There are clinics which offer PCR test, which are as accurate as for 10 days infection.
When can I see my results?
Results are usually depends on the STI test and the clinic. Some will take as much as 24 hours and some will provide you results in less than a minute.
If I choose private, what should I look out for?
The first thing you need to keep in mind is that the clinic is Care Quality Commission Approved and Registered. You can check the important testimonials and references on the clinics website. If you dont find enough information and still in doubt, visit the clinic and examine the environment yourself. If you are satisfied with the environment and the staff, you can go with it.