National Clearinghouse for Poison Control Centers.

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Public Health Information Systems

Background:

• The Clearinghouse was established to coordinate information among a limited number of Poison Control Centers.
• Initial structure placed control with state health departments, with no regulatory authority for the Clearinghouse.

Observation:

• Growth in the number of centers and advancements in the field have increased demands.
• Requests for data, research support, regionalization, and standardization have escalated.

Findings:

• The Clearinghouse's role is increasingly expected to expand beyond its original information coordination mandate.
• Despite constant staffing and funding, there's a drive for greater Clearinghouse involvement in poison control.

Implications:

• The Clearinghouse must adapt to evolving demands within clinical toxicology and poison control.
• Strategic adjustments are needed to meet the growing need for comprehensive support and services.