People across the country easily recognize the state of Missouri because of one key area: our bootheel!
It is made up of several counties in the shape of a boot’s heel at the southernmost part of the state. Hop on the road with Missouri Poison Center to learn more about this region of our great state!
Last year in June 2018, a main hospital closed in the city of Kennett – right in the heart of the bootheel. Many families now have to drive over an hour for medical care. The Missouri Poison Center serves the entire state of Missouri, so we wanted to jump in and help fill the gap.
Since the fall of 2018, the Missouri Poison Center has made several trips to provide training and resources to health departments and healthcare facilities. Poison prevention trainings were conducted in Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, and Ripley Counties and participants included health department employees, police, EMS, nurses, and other public health officials. The goal was to promote the free and confidential services of the Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222, and to create awareness about poison prevention by sharing our free resources, brochures, and magnets. These trainings have been a vital way to reach residents who do not have direct access to major cities, hospitals, and other medical resources.
If you would like poison prevention training in your area, we would love to come visit! Contact our Community Outreach Coordinator at 866-612-5719.
Some of the responses to the Bootheel trainings by participants include:
- “I was unaware that the poison center could be used for information without there being an exposure.”
- “The information can be used for WIC appointments, pregnancy visits, and immunizations.”
- “Saving the Poison Help line: 1-800-222-122 is an easy way to share about the poison center.”
- “The poison center isn’t just for ingestions and they can help callers in 150 languages.”
Poisonings occur in all counties in the state of Missouri. If you have an exposure or question call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Specially trained nurses and pharmacists are available 24/7/365. The service is free and confidential.
