Find policies, billing codes, payers, states, and providers
CPT 87651: Streptococcus Group A Detection by Amplified Nucleic Acid Probe
CPT code 87651 represents a molecular diagnostic test that detects Streptococcus, group A, using an amplified nucleic acid probe technique. This assay is used to diagnose acute streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat) and informs timely clinical management by rapidly identifying the causative bacterial agent. The test is widely performed in clinical laboratories and outpatient settings where rapid molecular diagnostics are available. Nationally, molecular detection codes like 87651 matter because they support faster, more sensitive identification of infectious agents compared with some antigen or culture methods, with implications for antibiotic stewardship and workflow in ambulatory and urgent care environments.
Key payers included in this analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, United Healthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the code’s clinical role, typical sites of service, commonly associated clinical indications, and related laboratory procedures. The publication also outlines comparable and related codes used for antigen detection and culture-based methods, helping readers distinguish testing modalities. Information provided is intended to support coding clarity, clinical context, and payer alignment at a national level.
Customize your policy alerts
Sign up for cpt 87651 policy alerts
Get alerted when payer policies referencing 87651 are released or updated.
Monitor payer policy activity
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 87651 describes a laboratory test that detects Streptococcus, group A using an amplified nucleic acid probe technique. The procedure is a molecular diagnostic assay performed by a laboratory analyst to identify the presence of the bacterium commonly responsible for acute pharyngitis (strep throat).
Service type: Molecular diagnostic infectious agent detection
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or outpatient clinic laboratory setting
National Reimbursement Benchmarks
Commercial national averages for CPT 87651 center on a BUCA mean of $74.5, with individual payer means ranging from $36.2 to $99.7. Blue Cross Blue Shield posts the highest mean at $99.7 and a wide spread, while Aetna and Cigna sit closer to the BUCA average with means of $46.2 and $40.6 respectively. UnitedHealth Group’s mean of $36.2 is near the lower end of the commercial spectrum.
Dispersion measured as the interquartile range (P75–P25) is widest for Blue Cross Blue Shield at $34.2, reflecting greater variability in negotiated commercial rates. Aetna and Cigna show moderate dispersion at $31.0 and $26.5 respectively, while UnitedHealth Group is the tightest of the listed payers with an IQR of $19.8, indicating more consistent commercial pricing.