When to Call
Who does what — care team, nurse line, pharmacist, urgent care, emergency services — and what to have in front of you.
This section explains who answers which kind of question, and what information makes each call go faster. It does not tell you which one your situation calls for: that judgment belongs to you and to the clinician on the other end of the line. If it feels like an emergency, stop reading and call 911 or your local emergency number.
Guides in this section
Choosing the Right Number to Call When Unwell
How do I work out which number on my list to ring?
General education
Essentials to Gather Before You Call for Help
What should I gather before I pick up the phone?
Depends on your own plan
Effectively Preparing for Health Calls During Illness
What questions will I be asked when I call my healthcare team?
General education
Recording Doctor's Advice During a Call
How can I effectively record advice from my care team on a call?
General education
Steps to Take When You Can't Reach Your Care Team
What do I do if nobody answers?
Depends on your own plan
Helping Someone Else Make a Call for You
What does the person helping me need in order to call on my behalf?
Depends on your own plan
Managing Illness with Diabetes: Organizing Your Day
How can I organize my day with diabetes when I'm sick?
Depends on your own plan
Preparing for a Conversation on Alcohol Use and Your Health
How can I prepare to discuss alcohol use and heart health with my care team?
Depends on your own plan