CPT code 87653 identifies a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Streptococcus, group B, using an amplified probe technique to rapidly detect colonization, most commonly from vaginal tract specimens in pregnant individuals. This code is nationally relevant because group B Streptococcus screening is integral to perinatal care and newborn infection prevention; timely, accurate testing at the point of labor or during prenatal visits can inform intrapartum management and reduce neonatal morbidity.

Key payers in the scope of coverage discussion include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for the assay, common sites of service, and payer coverage considerations. The publication summarizes benchmarking information where available, notes recent policy trends affecting laboratory utilization and coding, and provides operational context for laboratories and billing teams. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable, and the document focuses on national implications for clinical workflows, coding consistency, and reimbursement practice related to CPT code 87653.