applications and background checks

I applied to a health system in California and was asked for my date of birth. Here's the caveat...it was a 'supplemental' part of the application for employment.

Hence, you could choose to not complete the section since it was 'supplemental,' but you probably will not be considered for a job if you leave it blank because they supposedly need the info to conduct the background check.

I think this is a roundabout way of finding out a candidate's age before calling them for an interview. After all, the info needed to initiate the background check could be gathered after they make the decision to hire.