CPT code 87471 denotes a molecular diagnostic test using an amplified nucleic acid probe technique to detect Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana. This laboratory assay supports clinical diagnosis of Bartonella infections, which can present with diverse clinical syndromes and require targeted laboratory methods for confirmation. Nationally, availability and appropriate use of such molecular tests affect infectious disease diagnosis, public health surveillance, and laboratory resource allocation.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for Bartonella testing, typical sites of service, and what to expect in billing and claim submission for CPT code 87471. The publication summarizes common modifiers and administrative considerations when coding molecular infectious disease assays and outlines where benchmark and policy updates would apply.

This summary provides clinicians, laboratory administrators, and coding professionals with a clear description of the service represented by CPT code 87471, the clinical situations that prompt its use, and the payer landscape relevant to national billing practices. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.