Approximately what percentage of EMS calls are not emergencies?

• A. 90 percent
• B. 95 percent
• C. 5 percent
• D. 50 percent

Answer: (B)

Most EMS calls are not emergencies. In many systems, only a small portion of responses involve immediate, life-threatening issues, while the vast majority are non-urgent transports, medical advice, or care coordination. Because of that pattern, about five percent of EMS calls are true emergencies, leaving roughly ninety-five percent that are not emergencies. This distinction matters for how EMS resources are planned, how care pathways are designed (including directing non-emergency patients to appropriate care), and how the public is educated about when to use EMS. Other options would imply a much higher or lower non-emergency share and don’t fit the typical EMS call pattern.