Screening vs Diagnosis
Screening is a quick way to identify whether symptoms may be present and whether further evaluation is warranted. Diagnosis is a formal clinical judgment made by a qualified professional after comprehensive assessment.
Definition
A screening test — like those on LuriaLab — measures symptom patterns and flags when professional evaluation may be helpful. It cannot confirm a condition. Diagnosis involves clinical interview, history, functional impact, differential diagnosis, and professional judgment. Understanding this difference helps you interpret results responsibly.
What it can feel like
- A high screening score suggests further evaluation, not a confirmed condition.
- Screens are brief; diagnosis is comprehensive.
- Anyone can take a screen; only clinicians diagnose.
- Screening results are best shared with a professional.
Related screening tests on LuriaLab
- Generalizə Təşviş Pozuntusu Qiymətləndirmə Şkalası (GAD-7)
- Pasient Sağlamlıq Anketi - Depressiya Testi (PHQ-9)
Related glossary terms
Tez-tez verilən suallar
Can an online test diagnose me?
No. Online screens indicate whether symptoms may be present and whether to seek assessment. Only a qualified professional can diagnose a condition.
What should I do with my screening result?
Use it for self-reflection and, if scores concern you, share it with a healthcare professional who can provide proper assessment.
Are screening tools accurate?
Validated screens have good accuracy for flagging symptoms, but no screen is perfect. They support — not replace — clinical judgment.
Sources
- WHO — mental health screening principles
- US Preventive Services Task Force — screening guidance
Last reviewed: 2026-07-02. Screening tools on LuriaLab are for education only and do not provide a diagnosis.