Washington Poison Center expands access with new text and online chat services
In celebration of National Poison Prevention Week (March 16-22, 2025), Washington Poison Center (WAPC), Washington’s nonprofit resource on poison prevention and drug safety, has launched new text and online chat features. These enhancements increase the public’s access to WAPC’s specially trained pharmacists and nurses through text messaging and a web-based chat platform, in addition to the traditional phone service.
“Poisoning can happen to anyone, and we know that people increasingly prefer texting and online chat for quick access to information,” says Jimmy Leonard, PharmD, DABAT, Managing Director of WAPC. “By introducing these new options, we are making Poison Help more accessible and easier to use for everyone, especially during emergencies.”
The new text and chat services will operate alongside the 24/7 free telephone helpline, ensuring that individuals can reach WAPC in whatever way is most convenient for them. Whether it’s a question about a medication mistake, an exposure to a household chemical, or a drug overdose, trained poison specialists are available to provide immediate and free guidance. All interactions are handled by live poison specialists—there is no AI or automated system involved.
To access WAPC’s services:
- Text 206-526-2121
- Go to our website homepage to begin a live chat
- Call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222
All services are free, confidential, and available 24/7/365. Text and chat are currently available in English only. For access to free interpretation in over 200 languages, call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.
WAPC encourages everyone to save the Poison Helpline (1-800-222-1222) and/or WAPC’s text number (206-526-2121) in their contacts and share the new text and chat features with family and friends.