TODA General Resources
Where to Report-
TODA Reporting Drug Poisoning Events in Texas (PDF in English) identifies Texas drug poisoning reporting systems and how to report.
Resources
News, Events, and Highlights
TODA Supported Toxicology Expansion Program (STEP) and Drug Poisoning Supplemental Announcement
Published 3/11/2025
The TODA Supported Toxicology Enhancement Program (STEP) offers free expanded comprehensive toxicology testing for eligible counties. TODA STEP is a partnership between DSHS and NMS Labs. The program’s goals are:
- Support comprehensive toxicology testing for Texas medical examiners and justices of the peace.
- Increase ability of offices to identify specific drugs associated with unintentional and undetermined drug poisoning deaths.
- Cover a variety of test codes for drug poisoning deaths when ordered under a TODA-supported account.
To learn more about STEP and check eligibility, please email toda@dshs.texas.gov
TODA also developed a Drug Poisoning Supplemental for offices conducting death investigations to use for reporting scene information for drug poisonings. The supplemental supports the streamlining and standardization of death investigations for medical examiner offices and justices of the peace. Please email toda@dshs.texas.gov to request a copy.
Decrease in Drug Poisoning Deaths
Published 2/13/2025
Drug poisoning deaths decreased 17% in the U.S. between July 2023 and July 2024 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). According to the Drug Policy Alliance, a few key public health interventions helped tens of thousands of people stay alive. They are:
- Opioid-reversal drug naloxone
- Increased access to medications for opioid use disorder
- Increased education
Yet, during that same period, over 93,000 people still died of drug poisoning. Drug poisoning death rates remained high or increased in non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic Latino, and Native American populations.
Drug poisoning remains a critical public health issue. One in four Texans has personal experience with an opioid-related drug poisoning. Following evidence-based public health solutions, such as access to naloxone and education about proper naloxone usage, can reduce drug poisoning-related deaths in Texas and across the U.S.
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