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iPhone: Bypass Do Not Disturb

Configure Focus modes and exception settings on your iPhone so critical medical calls always reach you, even during Do Not Disturb.

Method 1: Add to Favorites (recommended)

Favorites work across all Focus modes and iOS versions, making this the most dependable way to let critical calls through.

  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Tap the Favorites tab at the bottom of the screen.
  3. Tap the "+" button in the top-left corner.
  4. Select your practice's contact from the list.
  5. Go to Settings → Focus → Do Not Disturb.
  6. Under Calls, select "Allow Calls From: Favorites".

Method 2: Allow repeated calls

A second call from the same number within 3 minutes will bypass Focus mode. Because it requires two calls, combine this with Method 1 or 3 for single urgent calls.

  1. Go to Settings → Focus → Do Not Disturb.
  2. Turn on "Allow Repeated Calls".

Method 3: Allow specific contacts

Manually select contacts that can always call through Focus mode. Useful if you want different settings for different Focus modes.

  1. Make sure your practice's number is saved as a contact.
  2. Go to Settings → Focus → Do Not Disturb.
  3. Tap Calls → Allow Calls From → Add Contact.
  4. Choose your practice's contact from the list.

Emergency Bypass (most reliable)

Emergency Bypass overrides all Focus modes and volume settings for a single contact. For maximum reliability, enable it for your practice contact:

  1. Open the practice contact in your Contacts app.
  2. Tap Edit in the top-right corner.
  3. Tap Ringtone and enable Emergency Bypass.
  4. Also enable Emergency Bypass under Text Tone if you receive SMS alerts.

Additional tips

  • Configure exceptions for every Focus mode you use (Work, Sleep, Personal) — each has its own settings.
  • "Do Not Disturb While Driving" has separate settings — configure those too.
  • Check that "Silence Unknown Callers" isn't blocking your practice number.
  • Assign a unique ringtone to your practice contact for easy identification, and keep ringer volume high.

Testing your setup

  1. Turn on Do Not Disturb or your current Focus mode.
  2. Have someone call from your practice number.
  3. Confirm the call rings through.
  4. Repeat with any other Focus modes you use.