We have that as a service in Ontario as well, though it is staffed by nurses not doctors. But no one says call them instead of 911. It is for situations where you don't want to visit a doctor, or can't for whatever reason, and you need to know your options. They may direct you to a doctor, walk in clinic, ER or whatever. It does save money for the system, but also take non-urgent cases out of the workload, and everyone benefits. And you get faster service.