Computers in poisons information

Computers may be used by Poison Control Centres (PCCs) for literature retrieval, as answering aids and for case registration. Experience now shows that in each of these uses the computer may be valuable but many of these programs are still in their infancy and there is undoubtedly scope for further development both for service and research applications. The present debate about the role of computers in PCCs is of considerable importance since it must be hoped that it will be possible to make the best use of finances and develop an approach which assists rather than confounds international understanding.