Comparison between eight poisons information centers in Europe.
OBJECTIVE
To map and compare organization and activities of eight poisons information centers in Europe in order to learn and discuss future development.


METHODS
In 2004, the following eight centers in six countries were visited and studied: Brussels, Lille, Munich, Cardiff, London, Utrecht, Stockholm and Zurich. Each center was visited for 1 or 2 days. All centers filled in the same questionnaire.


CONCLUSIONS
Although all centers had the same functions, they showed great differences in organization and activities. Several of the centers seemed to be understaffed for an optimum utilization of poisons information centers by the society. In order to increase harmonization and prepare the European poisons information centers for the future not only continuous voluntary collaboration, but also regulation by the European Union (EU), is proposed. It is advocated that the European Association of Poisons Centers and Clinical Toxicologists (EAPCCT) should take an active role, also towards EU.
Andrew
Erik
E
Poisons Information, Directorate of Health and Social Affairs, Norway. Erik.Andrew@shdir.no
D005060:Europe; D007255:Information Services / Q000592:standards*; D011039:Poison Control Centers / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D011041:Poisoning / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy