The year 2000 threat: preparing radiology for nine realms of risk

The year 2000 computer problem arises from a long-standing and often-duplicated computer programming error. Affected programs use only two digits to represent years, which may lead to a variety of computer malfunctions and data errors related to crossing from 1999 (99) to 2000 (00), at which point computers may interpret 00 as 1900 or other incorrect dates. Radiology and medicine may be seriously affected by this problem as it relates to the function of its equipment; business functions such as scheduling, billing and purchasing; the reliability of infrastructure such as power and telecommunications; the availability of supplies; and many other issues. It is crucial that radiologists, as practitioners of one of the most computer-oriented medical specialties, help lead the effort to ensure continuity of operations as the year 2000 boundary approaches and passes. This article provides suggestions for a structured approach, as well as tools and checklists, to guide project leaders attempting to identify and remediate year 2000-associated problems within radiology facilities.