In screening clients, what does a cutoff score refer to?

In the context of screening clients, a cutoff score is essentially a benchmark or threshold that helps identify whether a client may require further evaluation or assessment. When a client’s score surpasses this cutoff, it typically indicates that the individual may be at risk for a substance use disorder or related issues, thereby necessitating a more comprehensive assessment.

This approach allows practitioners to efficiently allocate resources and focus on individuals who may need additional support or intervention. It ensures that clients scoring below the cutoff may not require extensive evaluation, streamlining the process for those who are more likely to benefit from further testing and support.

The other options misrepresent the concept of a cutoff score. For example, a criteria-based score for denial or a score that is simply incomplete do not accurately depict the role of a cutoff score in assessing the need for further intervention. Additionally, indicating that a final score supersedes all others does not illustrate the nuanced function of screening which primarily serves to direct attention for more thorough assessment rather than final evaluations.