New RAND study shows U.S. poison centers save the nation billions each year
Virginia’s poison centers encourage community to utilize free, life-saving services.
January 21, 2026
According to a 2024 report by America’s Poison Centers, some of the most common exposure substances addressed by poison centers are painkillers, household cleaning substances, antidepressants, cosmetics/personal care products and antihistamines. (Getty Images)
By Danielle Pierce
United States poison centers, including those based at VCU Health and UVA Health, save $3.1 billion every year in medical costs and lost productivity, according to a new independent study released by America’s Poison Centers®.
Conducted by RAND, the report Poison Prevention, Treatment, and Detection as Public Health Investments confirms that poison centers provide substantial economic and societal benefits for communities across the country. Across Virginia, the VCU Health Virginia Poison Center and UVA Health’s Blue Ridge Poison Center responded to more than 53,000 calls in 2025 for potential poison exposures. More than 85% of the calls from patients and families were managed without requiring a visit to a health care facility. Along with 24/7 support to respond to potential poison exposures through their dedicated call centers, both poison centers also work to prevent poisonings and improve care through educational efforts for the public and healthcare professionals.
“This study reinforces what our team sees every day. Quick access to poison center experts saves lives, reduces unnecessary medical visits, and keeps families safer at home,” said John Downs, M.D., MPH, FACP, FAACT, director of the VCU Health Virginia Poison Center. “We are here 24/7 to provide fast, reliable guidance, and we remain a trusted resource for people across Virginia whenever they need support.”
The RAND report also found that for every $1 invested in poison center services, communities receive $16.77 in benefits. These cost-saving benefits reflect reduced emergency department use, shortened hospital stays, decreased risk of death, enhanced public health surveillance and improved patient outcomes.
“Poison centers like those that serve Virginia are a cost-effective way to keep our neighbors safe and well-informed about potential poisoning hazards,” said Christopher Holstege, M.D., director of the Blue Ridge Poison Center. “Our teams are always available to protect the health of our fellow Virginians if they may have been exposed to a poisonous substance of any kind.”
For additional information, or to read the full report, visit poisoncenters.org/national-impact-study. For fast, free, confidential help for a potential poisoning or question, contact the Poison Help line at 800.222.1222, PoisonHelp.org, or reach your local poison center by visiting the Virginia Poison Center’s website or the Blue Ridge Poison Center’s website.
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