The State of Alaska announces a transition in its poison control services, from the Oregon Poison Control Center to the Kansas Poison Center (KSPC). Despite this change, the quality of services and the phone number to call for poison emergencies for Alaska remain the same: 1-800-222-1222.
This transition marks the end of an era of dedicated service by the Oregon Poison Control Center, which has been a critical resource for Alaskans during poison emergencies.
“We extend our gratitude to the Oregon Poison Control Center for their many years of commitment and expertise ensuring Alaskans receive prompt help after a possible poisoning,” said Daniella DeLozier, Injury Prevention and Surveillance Unit (IPSU) Manager.
New Provider: Kansas Poison Center (KSPC)
Since 1982, the Kansas Poison Center (KSPC) has operated a 24-hour Poison Helpline. This helpline offers expert medical diagnosis and management of human poison exposures. As leaders in poison prevention activities, KSPC is one of 55 poison centers nationwide. It is the only regional poison center in Kansas certified and accredited by America’s Poison Centers organization.
KSPC’s team comprises highly trained and board-certified professionals, including licensed nurses and pharmacists. All professionals are nationally certified specialists of poison information (CSPI certified). With medical toxicology support available 24/7, KSPC’s five board-certified toxicologists (four medical toxicologists and one clinical toxicologist) are well-versed in managing cases at small or rural hospitals.
While many poison exposures are common nationwide, KSPC is aware of Alaska’s unique exposures. These include botulism, carbon monoxide, marine toxins, toxic alcohols, and hydrocarbon exposures. Among the most common types of poison exposures in Alaska are household cleaning products, medications, and carbon monoxide.
“We are looking forward to a new partnership with the Kansas Poison Center to provide the same high level of service to Alaskans that Oregon Poison Control Center did for so many years,” DeLozier said. Services began July 1, 2024.
What’s Staying the Same, and What’s Changing
The phone number for reporting poison emergencies, 1-800-222-1222, will remain the same, ensuring continuity for Alaskans. The only change is administrative contact information for general questions or clinical guidelines. For that information or guidelines, contact KSPC at poisoncenter@kumc.edu, fax at 913-945-6080, or go to https://www.
KSPC will offer continued medical toxicological support for clinical providers, tribal health providers, and community health aides, assisting with treatment over the phone. In the coming weeks they will reach out to providers to introduce themselves, answer questions, and build partnerships with Alaska providers. Additionally, KSPC plans to provide outreach and educational programs for the general public and healthcare professionals to enhance awareness of poison prevention strategies, first-aid treatments, and medical triage assessments for poison emergencies. This new collaboration will maintain Alaska’s high standards of poison control services and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.