History & Mission

History

The California Poison Control System (CPCS) was founded in 1997, to centralize poisoning advice and prevention services in California.

Since inception, CPCS has received over 6 million calls, many of which have averted tragedies and saved lives. Our program’s success can be attributed to our specially trained toxicologists, who have prior education and training as physicians, pharmacists or nurses.

Mission

The California Poison Control System’s (CPCS) mission is to prevent an increase in non-fatal poisonings and poisoning deaths, in conjunction with saving Californians millions of dollars in unnecessary health care cost.

Serving all Californians through a single, toll free number, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, CPCS is the largest single provider of poison control services in the United States. CPCS leads the state as the primary resource for poison education, prevention, and treatment for the general public and health care professionals.