Plant engineering managers have worked closely with suppliers of electricity, natural gas and water and have a high level of confidence that those utilities will be supplied without interruption. However, St. Elizabeth maintains backup generators and fuel oil systems that can be called on if service is disrupted. Systems and equipment in St. Elizabeth facilities have been assessed for Y2K compliance and upgrades are underway where necessary. Communication between vendors and suppliers is ongoing to monitor their ability to continue providing for our patients needs. In addition, we are working with other hospitals through the Greater Cincinnati Health Council to assure that we are all taking appropriate steps, while not depleting the normal supply chains.
Contingency plans are under development in the event problems do arise.
These plans are an extension of existing emergency plans that are updated on a regular basis. Two tabletop drills have been conducted using specific Y2K scenarios as a tool to work through emergency plans. This model has been shared with other hospitals. An administrative team along with representatives from data processing, plant engineering, clinical engineering and telephone services will be on-site when the new year begins. Once the contingency plans have been refined, a final determination will be made on what additional personnel may need to be available.