The one big stumbling block is compatibility between databases. While today's database programs can read and share each other's data, the data entry forms and the reports created by one brand of database software cannot be converted to another. Duke LTC maintains its own Internet website where you can read our latest publications and research on home and community-based services, assisted living with services, pharmaceutical assistance for the elderly, the Long Term Care Teaching Communities program, our Leadership in an Aging Society program, and other news about aging. N.C. Dept. of Insurance, AARP, and many others. These local or statewide databases allow anyone with Internet access to look through a list of social services and find the names of agencies that provide that service in a particular region or community.
Some systems even provide detailed information about each agency in their database.
Internet e-mail provides a great way to keep in touch and share ideas and solutions with your professional colleagues across North Carolina and the United States. If your agency has not already done so, we strongly encourage you to open an Internet account. Duke LTC will be happy to provide North Carolina agencies with advice to help you get on the net. Many Area Agencies on Aging and local service agencies have already found it useful to create their own Internet websites. You just type in any U.S. street address and town or zip code, and the computer finds the location right on the map.