1. a procedure or program to detect early signs of a disease in an individual or population. Individuals at increased hereditary risk of developing a disease are advised to follow regular screening plans. See also screening test.

2. the initial evaluation of a patient to determine his or her suitability for psychological or medical treatment generally, a specific treatment approach, or referral to a treatment facility. This evaluation is made on the basis of medical or psychological history, mental status examination, diagnostic formulation, or some combination of these.

3. the process of selecting items for a psychological test.

4. the process of determining, through a preliminary test, whether an individual is suitable for some purpose or task. See also selection test.