What is a “screening” in speech-language pathology?

A “screening” in speech-language pathology refers to a brief assessment designed to determine if an individual requires further evaluation for potential speech or language issues. The primary goal of a screening is to quickly identify individuals who may need more in-depth assessment. It is not intended to provide a full diagnosis or comprehensive analysis of a person's speech and language abilities but rather to serve as a preliminary check.

This initial step can help professionals decide if a more thorough evaluation is warranted based on the results of the screening. It is a critical part of the assessment process because it can lead to timely intervention when necessary.

The other options represent distinct processes or documents that differ significantly from the concept of screening. For example, a comprehensive assessment goes beyond the screening to evaluate skills in-depth, and a treatment plan focuses on the strategies designed to address identified issues. Meanwhile, a progress report summarizes an individual's advancements over time in therapy, rather than serving as a tool for initial evaluation. Thus, "screening" is specifically associated with preliminary assessments rather than ongoing treatment or evaluation.