Department of Medical Toxicology
Our medical toxicology group operates one of the busiest inpatient toxicology services in the United States, admitting and consulting on over 1,300 patients annually. We are affiliated with the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and form the Department of Medical Toxicology at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, as well as the Section of Toxicology at Phoenix Children's.
Most admissions are transferred from hospitals around the state — specifically for toxicology services and expertise. Common reasons for admission include accidental ingestions of medications and household chemicals in children, intentional ingestions of a variety of substances, occupational exposures and adverse drug reactions. We also manage substance abuse and withdrawal syndromes in the hospital. More unique to our geographic location is the large number of envenomation exposures — especially rattlesnakes.
At Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, an extensive inventory of antidotes is maintained along with a division of laboratory services for clinical drug testing for inpatients. A clinic provides limited outpatient services and independent medical examinations by appointment. We also have a Section of Addiction Medicine that was established in 2017 to review/coordinate clinical, education and research activities. Likewise, our Section of Precision and Genomic Medicine aims to advance the clinical use of pharmacogenetic testing and promote related research and education activities.
Services Provided
- Inpatient Services:
- Outpatient clinic at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix (by referral and appointment only).
- Medical direction and backup call for the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center.
- ACGME-accredited Medical Toxicology Fellowship.
- Center for Toxicology and Pharmacology Education and Research (CTPER).
- Lectures for the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, area GME programs and health care providers throughout the state.
Medical Toxicology
A medical toxicologist is always available 24 hours a day/seven days a week for patient referrals and consultations. Health care providers may call 602-253-3334 for transfer requests or inpatient consultations at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix or Phoenix Children's, as well as for phone consultations at other facilities. For established patients, please call the Medical Toxicology page operator at 602-839-3949.
Precision Medicine
A pharmacogenetics consult can be requested at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix by calling 602-839-3940. Potential indications may include adverse/toxic effects or lack of response with therapeutic dosing, or assistance with ordering and/or interpreting pharmacogenomic testing.