The Carolinas Poison Center is designated as the official state poison center for North Carolina. We are a not-for-profit telephone resource center of poisoning information, staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by registered nurses (Specialists in Poison Information) who are uniquely trained to provide diagnostic and treatment advice for acute and chronic poisonings to the public and healthcare providers. Board-certified medical toxicologists and pharmacists provide backup for the Specialists and are available for consultations 24 hours a day. All of our services are given at no charge to the caller.

Mission Statement

To serve the people and healthcare professionals of North Carolina by providing information and assistance in the prevention, treatment, and surveillance of poisonings and overdoses.

History 

The Carolinas Poison Center opened its doors in 1992 and provided service solely to Mecklenburg and surrounding counties.  Dr. S. Rutherfoord "Ruddy" Rose served as the Center's first Managing Director, and Dr. Marsha Ford served as the Medical Director. They were assisted by three full-time and two part-time Specialists in Poison Information.

In September 1995, the Carolinas Poison Center became the designated state poison center for North Carolina and expanded its coverage area to the entire state.  Carolinas Poison Center is currently one of 57 poison centers in the United States and is certified by the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC). Today, Dr. Marsha Ford serves as the Managing Director and is joined by two Medical Toxicologists, a Doctor of Pharmacy, and over 20 Specialists in Poison Information and Poison Information Providers.

How We Are Funded

The Carolinas Poison Center receives funding through state and federal grants and from individual donations. If you would like to support the important work that we do, please visit our Donations page. We thank you for your generosity!