Evaluating screening and early intervention: a puzzle with many pieces.
This article reviews some conceptual and methodological issues which arise in evaluating screening programs, screening protocols, lead time, sensitivity and specificity, and base rates among others. Benefits of screening need to be separated from those of early intervention. Replicable protocols are needed to strengthen studies of the benefits of preadmission screening. Preadmission discharge planning is an idea which warrants consideration.
Coulton
C J
CJ
School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106.
D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay / Q000191:economics; D008605:Mental Health Services; D010343:Patient Admission; D010351:Patient Discharge; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012307:Risk Factors; D012947:Social Work