I think it just highlights an already existing problem. I have worked in a few primary clinics and the number of people who do not manage their own health impacts a bunch of others. Their prescription is running out yesterday without a refill. But it's also their 10th refill without being assessed or without having their bloodwork done (super long waits exacerbated by COVID).

Then there are actual urgent cases such as infections (skin, ear, wounds) that need to be seen that day or the next day.

Then there are chronic conditions that are exacerbated (COPD, diabetes, hypertension etc etc) and they need their urgent protocols which take an entire visit.

Then there are follow-ups: someone has finally seen a specialist and now that person needs a bunch of tests or procedures plus a follow up with their gp.

Referrals: let's refer someone to a specialist. Okay their waitlist is this many months long, but they will need this test done first. The wait for that test is 3-6months.

I can see why things are becoming emergent. But then we also have people who go to hospital for everything!