When I call on normal VHF channel 16 or 13 (which is used for commercial traffic), I know that others hear our call too. I think that has advantages when you're in tight situations.

The use of DSC is obviously much better if you want to keep your conversations move private. The "beep" or honk that comes from a DSC message probably gets their attention.

Generally, I've found that hailing another vessel using their name "wakes-up" the helm -- otherwise, I believe it's because there is no one listening, regardless. Unfortunately, that happens. :^)))