Rutgers University–Camden Study Reveals $3.1 Billion Annual Savings from U.S. Poison Centers
The Economic Value of Poison Centers in Healthcare
A recent independent study conducted by RAND and commissioned by America’s Poison Centers demonstrates the critical financial impact of poison control services across the United States. With $3.1 billion saved annually through reduced emergency department visits, shortened hospital stays, and improved health outcomes, these specialized centers prove essential to both public health and economic stability.
How Poison Centers Achieve Cost Savings
For every dollar invested in poison center operations, communities receive $16.77 in benefits according to the research. This remarkable return on investment stems from:
- 24/7 access to toxicology specialists who provide evidence-based guidance
- Prevention of unnecessary emergency room visits through at-home care instructions
- Early intervention that reduces complication risks and hospital admission rates
- Real-time public health surveillance identifying emerging threats
New Jersey Poison Control Center: A Rutgers Success Story
Operated through Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System (NJPIES) handled 54,442 cases in 2025 – a 5.8% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects both rising public health needs and increased community trust in their services.
Real-World Impact in Local Communities
“Our specialists handle everything from accidental cannabis edible ingestions by children to medication dosing errors by seniors,” explains Dr. Diane Calello, executive director of NJPIES. “Each call represents a potential emergency diverted from overcrowded ERs, saving both lives and healthcare resources.”
Funding Challenges Threaten Critical Services
Despite increasing demand, poison centers face an 8% decrease in real-dollar funding since 2011. This financial pressure comes as:
- Call volume increases across all demographics
- New communication channels (text/chat services) require technological investment
- Public health threats like opioid crises demand expanded response capabilities
How Communities Can Support Poison Centers
Individuals and organizations can help sustain these vital services by:
- Programming the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) into all household phones
- Advocating for state and federal funding support
- Sharing educational resources from PoisonHelp.org
- Participating in local poison prevention programs
Educational Pathways in Public Health Toxicology
For students interested in this critical healthcare field, Rutgers University–Camden offers specialized programs through Shorelight Pathways that prepare graduates for careers in poison control and public health emergency response. These programs combine rigorous academic training with practical experience in toxicology and crisis management.
Career Opportunities in Poison Prevention
Graduates enter roles as:
- Poison information specialists
- Public health educators
- Toxicology researchers
- Emergency response coordinators
Strengthening National Health Infrastructure
The RAND study confirms that maintaining strong poison center networks represents one of healthcare’s most cost-effective investments. As communities face evolving challenges from new substances and environmental toxins, these centers provide frontline defense through:
- 24/7 multilingual support services
- Disaster preparedness coordination
- Overdose prevention initiatives
- Real-time data tracking of emerging threats
For immediate assistance with potential poison exposures, contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 or visit NJPIES.org. Healthcare professionals seeking specialized training can explore Rutgers University–Camden’s public health programs.
To support the life-saving work of poison centers, consider advocating for increased funding at local and national levels. Students interested in joining this critical field should review academic pathways through Shorelight at Rutgers University–Camden.
