The sore throat example was given as an example, not a training exercise. Sorry for being vague on that. Where I live (Chicago suburbs), there aren't pharmacies open 24/7 - most keep the same hours as all other stores and close around 9 or 10 pm. No, I wouldn't call an ambulance for a sore throat, even one verging on Strep, (for which Acetominphen is essentially useless) but the post mentions using A&E departments, not just ambulances, as evening/weekend clinics. My point wasn't to call an ambulance at 2 a.m. for a sore throat or bad back, etc - but that sometimes the pain doesn't really hit you as being severe enough to require medical intervention UNTIL it is late, there are no distractions, and it is just you and the pain. And at times like that - the only available medical services are frequently emergency services which are also dealing with the stabbings/gunshots/RTA traumas, etc. of the night.