History of Toxicology

What is Toxicology?

Toxicology is one of the few ACGME-accredited fellowships in emergency medicine (EM). Medical toxicology is a small, niche specialty that also provides substantial core content for EM residents. Upon certification, physicians are certified to provide medical direction for any toxicologic ingestion or toxin exposure from medication overdoses to environmental exposures to insect and reptile bites. There are approximately 800 board-certified medical toxicologists and 28 toxicology fellowships across the country.

Completing toxicology fellowship provides physicians with an opportunity to practice in many settings. Many practice in academic settings and are involved in residency and fellowship teaching. Toxicologists also practice in outpatient clinics, provide consulting services, participate in research, work in industry, and serve as public health experts. Most EM-trained toxicologists will maintain and work in the emergency department to some extent.