With the help of the media, we have become painfully aware that most computer code was written to save space, and the date field in many programs omitted the century portion. And it is not just computers that may have problems. Many devices and systems in non-computer applications have embedded computer chips that may be affected. These chips are now found in electronic equipment such as TV's, VCR's, telephones, thermostats, power plants, medical devices etc., around the world. According to Senator Robert Bennett, R-Utah, who chairs a senate committee on Y2K, the healthcare industry is ill prepared.
Truth is, no one really knows for sure.
Anyone could be affected for an undue period of time, and therefore proper risk management must be orchestrated. It includes a chronological plan for the office and letters that can be sent to insurance companies and vendors. Be a source of reliable, non-hysterical information. Inventory all hardware and applications. Emphasize readiness of their suppliers as well.