Microbiology-Testing for Staphylococcus Aureus and Streptococcus, Group B (August 2007)

Why This Topic Matters

Accurate reporting of microbiology molecular testing affects code selection consistency, claim integrity, and alignment with current CPT guidance. The article is relevant to facilities and practices that perform or bill for infectious disease testing in hospital, obstetric, and laboratory settings.

Article Sections

1. August 2007 pages 7-8

   Publication and page information for the CPT Assistant article.

2. Coding Communication: Microbiology-Testing for Staphylococcus Aureus and Streptococcus, Group B

   Overview of the microbiology coding topics addressed in the article.

3. MRSA Infections

   Background on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, its clinical relevance, and infection control context.

4. Rationale for New 2007 CPT codes 87640 and 87641

   Discussion of the CPT update introducing more specific reporting for molecular testing related to Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant strains.

5. Clinical Example (87641)

   Example scenario involving molecular testing in a patient at risk for MRSA.

6. Streptococcus, Group B

   Background on Group B Streptococcus, screening context, and obstetric relevance.

7. CPT Code 87653

   Discussion of the CPT update introducing more specific reporting for Group B Streptococcus testing and its distinction from prior nonspecific reporting.

8. Clinical Example (87653)

   Example scenario involving Group B Streptococcus testing in an obstetric setting.