NEWS BRIEF
Y2K problems could lead to Type I’s
Agencies need to be prepared before survey
Facing a survey this year? If so, you had better be sure your agency is ready for any issues related to the year 2000 computer problem (Y2K). According to the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organization’s (JCAHO) Web site, www.jcaho.org, Y2K is one area of focus for surveyors this year.
Organizations not ready for Y2K could receive Type I recommendations. To avoid that, JCAHO says you should identify and assess the implications of Y2K on your operations, including computer systems, medical equipment and utility systems. In addition, agencies should determine whether organizations that provide you with supplies and services are addressing the Y2K issue.
According to the Web site information, surveyors will ask whether your organization is trying to:
• identify its Y2K vulnerabilities;
• upgrade software programs and equipment to make them Y2K compliant;
• identify corrective manual alternatives when necessary;
• consider possible community disaster scenarios related to Y2K in your emergency preparedness planning;
• develop contingency plans to handle Y2K disruptions that are not identified ahead of time or are outside the organization’s control.
For more information on Y2K issues and how to solve them, see November 1998 Homecare Quality Management.
The Web site also pointed out other areas of focus for surveyors this year. They include:
• staffing levels and competencies;
• control of high-risk medications;
• oversight of contracted services;
• timeliness of care;
• licensing of facilities and caregivers who provide services across state lines.
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