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Research on minority elderly service use was examined and patterns of utilization of emergency services, hostpital stays, physicians visits, nursing home placements, and community-based services are described. Although ethnic elders have higher service needs based on medical problems and functional limitations, they have lower utilization rates of the services most important for geriatric populations. Structural and cultural barriers to service utilization are discussed. A framework for service providers is presented which can enable them to address the needs of minority elders for appropriate, accessible, and acceptable geriatric care.