When should you call 911? Published March 27, 2008 By 1st Lt. Janelle Quinn 4th Medical Group SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Medical emergencies require fast thinking and action. Different medical conditions call for different approaches to seeking care. The 911 emergency system is designed to provide immediate help to someone injured or in immediate danger. An emergency situation is one in which life, limb or eyesight are threatened without immediate treatment. If the situation requires immediate medical treatment, or there are painful symptoms requiring immediate attention to relieve suffering, the situation is an emergency. Examples of emergency situations include, but are not limited to the following: severe bleeding, chest pains, difficulty breathing, spinal cord or back injuries or broken bones. The 911 emergency response system should not be used for non-emergencies. Whenever a 911 operator has to take a non-emergency call, it could delay getting emergency services to someone who really needs them. Patients should call the clinic appointment line, 722-1802, for non-emergency medical issues. This 24-hour phone line is manned by a healthcare professional that will help direct patients to the appropriate level of care. Examples of this type of call include but are not limited to: minor lacerations, urinary tract infections, ear aches, migraine headaches, sprains and rising fevers. The clinic appointment line as well as other avenues to access medical care can be found on the green access to care card that is handed out at the 4th Medical Group. Patients should make sure they have the most current green card dated October 2007. Patients are also encouraged to become partners in their healthcare and use the "Healthier at Home" book. This is a guide to self-care and being a wise health consumer. This book is available through the primary care clinic. For more information, call 722-1802.