Strep Testing Update - Non-rapid Strep testing being phased out

Cincinnati Children’s Clinical Laboratories is phasing out non-rapid Strep testing beginning January 2021.  Starting in January, we will offer one Strep Test option, the Rapid Group A Strep test. Until now, we have offered two options for Strep testing, a Rapid direct-probe assay and a non-rapid, indirect-probe assay ordered as Strep A Molecular Detection. This has created confusion which led to order errors and sample collection errors. We hope phasing out the non-rapid option will mitigate confusion and errors.    Please continue reading for more details about this change.

Frequently Asked Questions about what the change means for practices:

Why was the decision made?

This decision is intended to simplify.  Both tests are confirmatory tests. The change should eliminate confusion about which test to order and which swab to use.

Which swab do I use?

The Rapid Group A Strep test requires the specimen be collected with the BLUE swab. You can start using blue swabs in January.  (more info HERE)

Strep A Molecular Detection test requires specimen collection with the RED swab. This will no longer be used after January 8, 2021.  (more info HERE )

If you still have a supply of red swabs, you can use those for strep testing until 1/8/21. Red swabs can also be used for wound cultures, after 1/8/21.

IMPORTANT: Once specimen is collected, please refrigerate the BLUE swab for transport to our lab. Contact Emily.Kimball@cchmc.org with any questions about this requirement.

How do I order this test?

The Rapid Group A Strep test is already on our ancillary order form (attached) and will be orderable via EpicLink.

What if I order the old test?

The main thing to remember is to use the BLUE swab for strep specimen collection after 1/8/21. As long as our lab receives the blue swab, they will run the Rapid Group A Strep, regardless of what is ordered. If we receive a red swab for a strep test after 1/8/21, the lab will contact your practice to explain next steps.

What will it cost my patients? The list price of the Rapid Group A Strep test is $60, CPT 87651

Additional test info:

The Rapid Group A Strep test is run with the ID Now assay from Abbott. It can be used as a confirmatory test if offices would like to continue to use EIA based assay that require confirmation; in addition, it is also approved as a primary test without the need for confirmation.

Questions?

Contact Dr. Joel Mortensen, Director, Diagnostic Infectious Diseases Testing Laboratory Email: Joel.Mortensen@cchmc.org    Office phone: 513.636.5310