In this year's budget, Governor Paterson has decided to cut state funding for the Long Island Poison Control Center located at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola. The State plans to only have two centers throughout the state (Upstate and NYC). Cutting funding to Long Island Poison means callers put on hold, overcrowded ER's and the possible loss of life. Serves Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties. Handles over 50,000 calls a year. Prevents unnecessary Emergency Room visits. Staffed 24/7/365 by RNs who are certified in Toxicology. Can act as an immediate backup to NYC Poison Control should a terrorism attack occur. Utilized by Fire/EMS/Police for pill ID's, management of pt. on-scene. Advises physicians on the handling of overdoses/exposures.