Programmers around the world continued to use this shorthand well into the '60s and '70s, not anticipating these same computer systems would be adapted and re-adapted and remain in use at the turn of the century. This may cause errors or malfunctions or possibly, do nothing. And, while the problem is the same, the solution is different for every affected program and piece of equipment. Consequently, our preparations for Y2K have been among the most technically challenging in the healthcare industry. Our Y2K objective is to ensure continuous world class healthcare to our 8 million beneficiaries and maintain medical readiness on and after January 1, 2000.
Patient safety is our top priority.
Thanks to the team's superb partnership, thoroughness and hard work, the MHS is well-prepared for the turn of the century. All mission critical and non-mission critical systems have been certified compliant, and our systems and equipment have been independently tested and validated. As a precaution, we and our healthcare partners have backup plans in place to address any issues or problems that may arise, and we have established a clearinghouse from which we can immediately share information systemwide. As a result, I can confidently assure you that you and your family will continue to receive the high quality care you have come to expect from your MHS on and after New Year's Day. Medical devices and lab equipment also have undergone special scrutiny to ensure safety and reliability.