This section is devoted to the profound and important transformational role of computers
and information systems (IS) in health care in general, and on the clinical engineering
profession in particular. Clinical engineers, who apply technology to improve patient
care, need to redefine their relationship to computers and IS. Prior conceptions of IS as
business and scientific technologies must yield to a new appreciation for the unique and
valuable contributions that they continue to make to patient care. Clinical engineers who
do not understand (or who avoid) this conclusion may find their circles of influence and
activities rapidly diminishing. The information in this section is intended to help avoid
that fate by briefly reviewing the past and then illustrating why topics like Y2K and the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) are important in the successful
evolution of computers from technical, administrative, and financial tools to
invaluable clinical technologies.