The provincial government has set up a new poison information line through a new agreement reached with the Atlantic Canada Poison Centre in Nova Scotia.

The general public now has 24/7 access to a specialist in poison information, toxicologists, botanists and lab technologists for the assessment, triage, management and follow-up of poison exposures.

Previously, potential poisonings were directed to the NL Healthline (811) with health care providers consulting with ACPC toxicology specialists for complex poisoning cases.

The province says having direct access to a Regional Poison Centre will result in the streamlining of health care services and a reduction in health care costs by reducing emergency room visits.

The HealthLine received a total of 3,289 calls about poisoning between March of 2019 and February of 2021.

The number to call is 1-844-POISONX or 1-844-764-7669.