Intermediate
Technical
IVT
screening pathway
Systematic sequence of steps from initial screening through diagnosis and treatment of abnormal findings.
Full Definition
A screening pathway defines the complete sequence of clinical steps from initial screening test through diagnostic workup and treatment of any abnormalities detected. This includes protocols for test administration, result interpretation, patient notification, follow-up procedures for abnormal results, and linkage to appropriate diagnostic and treatment services. Well-designed screening pathways ensure consistent, evidence-based management of all patients and minimize loss to follow-up at critical decision points.
In Context
- "The cervical screening pathway includes clear protocols for managing abnormal cytology results." — Clinical protocol
- "Quality indicators monitor performance at each step of the screening pathway." — Program evaluation
Also known as
screening algorithm
care pathway
Don't confuse with
diagnostic pathway
treatment pathway