PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Kharel, Ramu
AU  - Ghimire, Rakesh
AU  - Sharma, Rajesh
AU  - Maleku, Kabin
AU  - Aluisio, Adam R.
AU  - Kazzi, Ziad
TI  - Establishment of the First Institution-Based Poison Information Center in Nepal Through a Multilateral International Partnership
AID  - 10.9745/GHSP-D-24-00142
DP  - 2024 Oct 29
TA  - Global Health: Science and Practice
PG  - e2400142
VI  - 12
IP  - 5
4099  - http://www.ghspjournal.org/content/12/5/e2400142.short
4100  - http://www.ghspjournal.org/content/12/5/e2400142.full
SO  - GLOB HEALTH SCI PRACT2024 Oct 29; 12
AB  - Key MessagesNepal has a high burden of toxicological emergencies but has grossly inadequate expertise and infrastructure for toxicology care.Nepal’s first institution-based poison information center (Nepal-PIC) was established through a local and international partnership with a focus on service delivery, education, and research.Early data show the utility and benefit of the Nepal PIC, but the sustainability of the Nepal PIC will ultimately depend on the local institution and government buy-in and funding.Toxicological emergencies present a significant health challenge in Nepal. Despite the high burden, the country has inadequate formal toxicology training, medical toxicology expertise, and adequate poison control infrastructure. In recognition of this need, the Nepal Poison Information Center (PIC) was established as a collaborative effort involving local and international partners. Through a comprehensive partnership framework, the Nepal PIC provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week expert guidance to health care workers, conducts educational webinars, and engages in research. Initial data from the pilot phase indicate successful consultation delivery. Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles and the need for sustainable funding. Despite these challenges, the Nepal PIC demonstrates early feasibility and potential for expansion into a comprehensive toxicology center, contributing to the advancement of clinical toxicology in Nepal. Long-term sustainability relies on governmental support and continued advocacy efforts.