CPT code 87526 represents an amplified nucleic acid probe test for hepatitis G virus (HGV/GBV) RNA, a molecular diagnostic used to detect active infection. This code matters nationally because molecular assays for viral hepatitis inform clinical decision-making, infection control, blood safety, and surveillance efforts despite HGV often causing asymptomatic or mild disease. Laboratories and payers must align on coverage and billing for specialized molecular testing.

Key payers covered in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise explanation of clinical context, typical sites of service, and the importance of the assay for identifying active HGV infection. The publication summarizes national benchmarks and payer coverage considerations where available, outlines common billing and coding themes associated with molecular infectious disease testing, and highlights relevant policy and reimbursement updates that affect lab-based nucleic acid testing.

This resource is intended to provide clinicians, laboratory administrators, and coding professionals a clear reference for CPT code 87526, including what the code represents, the clinical implications of the assay, and the payer landscape that commonly governs reimbursement for such specialized molecular tests.