What is the primary purpose of a screening test?

• A. To diagnose disease with certainty
• B. To determine whether there is enough evidence to justify further diagnostic testing
• C. To measure functional independence
• D. To monitor treatment side effects

Answer: (B)

Screening tests are used to flag people who may have a condition so they can undergo more definitive diagnostic testing. They’re designed to catch disease early in those who may not have symptoms yet, prioritizing sensitivity so fewer cases are missed, even if that means some false positives will need confirmatory testing. The screening result itself doesn’t diagnose the disease with certainty; it simply indicates whether further diagnostic steps are warranted. It isn’t about measuring functional independence or monitoring treatment effects. For example, a positive screening test (like a mammogram) leads to more definitive follow-up testing to confirm whether disease is present.