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Introduction: Year 2000 (Y2K) compliance refers to computer ability to recognize the last two digits of the year 2000 as the beginning of the 21st century, not the beginning of the 20th century. Detection is imperative, since all computer-operated and management information systems within a hospital could shut down the moment the next millenium begins. A recent survey of the US health-care industry found that organizations lag behind most other industries in preparedness for what could be the greatest worldwide disaster in the last hundred years. Objective: To present the Temple University Health System (TUHS) planning process to attain Y2K compliance. Methods: The vice president for computer services of Temple University (AP) spearheads a multi-million dollar effort to prevent computer standstill in all components of the TUHS. We currently are midway through a five-step process that will enable us to achieve our goal. Results: Task forces have been assembled within TUHS to analyze and remedy problems associated with automatic date-based functions. These include facilities, biomedical equipment, information systems and interfaces, telecommunications, fixed asset management, and others. Each task force has defined goals and objectives that are designed to enable full compliance by either rewriting computer applications or replacing computer systems. These are outlined in a flow diagram, along with specific tasks in the overall change process, such as assessment and prioritization of inventory, resource development and vendor tracking. Conclusion:The TUHS Y2K project is rewriting computer applications and replacing computer systems to avoid mission-critical computer failure associated with entering the new millenium.

Introduction: Year 2000 (Y2K) compliance refers to computer ability to recognize the last two digits of the year 2000 as the beginning of the 21st century, not the beginning of the 20th century. Detection is imperative, since all computer-operated and management information systems within a hospital could shut down the moment the next millenium begins. A recent survey of the US health-care industry found that organizations lag behind most other industries in preparedness for what could be the greatest worldwide disaster in the last hundred years. Objective: To present the Temple University Health System (TUHS) planning process to attain Y2K compliance. Methods: The vice president for computer services of Temple University (AP) spearheads a multi-million dollar effort to prevent computer standstill in all components of the TUHS. We currently are midway through a five-step process that will enable us to achieve our goal. Results: Task forces have been assembled within TUHS to analyze and remedy problems associated with automatic date-based functions. These include facilities, biomedical equipment, information systems and interfaces, telecommunications, fixed asset management, and others. Each task force has defined goals and objectives that are designed to enable full compliance by either rewriting computer applications or replacing computer systems. These are outlined in a flow diagram, along with specific tasks in the overall change process, such as assessment and prioritization of inventory, resource development and vendor tracking. Conclusion:The TUHS Y2K project is rewriting computer applications and replacing computer systems to avoid mission-critical computer failure associated with entering the new millenium.