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John A. Noble, MPH, SAMHSA's National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, 11420 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852, 240-747-4810, jnoble@shs.net and Nelia C. Nadal, MPH, CHES, Division of Prevention Application and Education, Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockwall 2, Ste. 800, Rockville, MD 20857.
The most recent survey of Internet access shows that 66% of adults and 75% of youth have access to the Internet. Information dissemination policies are increasingly oriented to the Internet because of its versatility and low cost in communicating health information. This paper focuses on how to identify and reach persons who are not on the Internet. If employed, they are in jobs that do not involve Internet usage such as construction, farm laborers, and categories of service personnel who are providing products over the counter to customers. Another group are some who may be unwilling or disinterested in the Internet. Once the demographics are determined, the access route to the target population can be drawn from existing means. For example, employer based information dissemination through pamphlets, paycheck stuffers, or mailings. In the case of unconnected aged, presentations in housing or community centers would be a means of access. In summary, the rush to the internet must be recognized as a dominant and cost effective development, but traditional communications will continue to be needed for unconnected target groups.
Learning Objectives: As a result of attending this session, participant will be able to
Keywords: World Wide Web, Access
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.