I notice that providers state that new clients have to go through a "screening process" if they are a first timer for the provider.  What specifics do they ask for and how are they able to verify this information?

Most ladies do not divulge verification specifics, so that hobbyists and LE cannot easily circumvent their screening process.

What ever happened to "What is DATY"?

I think what is happening is that we are seeing more and more men that have never hobbied before and are considering the art. People in their category have lots of concerns about information that they will need to give out and about falling into LE's hands. What I do when seeing one of their posts is read between the lines a little and try to provide useful information to them.

Contact the provider of your choice either via phone or by email. The better ones seem to prefer email. Once you have made contact the provider will let you know what information she will need from you. If you choose a well reviewed provider that has high review ratings for performance there should be no problem with providing her the information that she requests.

This is a hot topic on the TwinCities board from time to time... I personally DO NOT EVER submit to a screening prossess for a provider or agency!
But that is somewhat limiting in which ladies I can see...
However, I still find that it is a buyers market out there and the "young independents" are in abundance and usually don't require any type of screening. I also happen to really enjoy the company of inexperenced girls so this works for me and I have been at this hobby for 17 years and never given my real name....