We use data from a random sample of 5,454 elderly participants in the California
Preventive Health Care for the Aging Program to identify gender and age differences
in health screening practices. We present a framework to facilitate an evaluation of
current targeting of services by gender and age. This framework clarifies where
targeting based on age and gender is appropriate or inappropriate and where more
or less targeting might be needed. With use of this framework, some inappropriate
age bias is indicated. The oldest-old often receive less health screening than their
younger counterparts. Gender-based targeting is less frequent and is usually appro
priate when it occurs. We discuss implications for practice and future program
evaluations.
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