It seemed we have been living with long call times for quite a while. I did a quick browse through board history, and found this, from more than two years ago. I'm certain I could find older threads if I took the time.
http://community.plus.net/forum/index.php/topic,119573.0.htmlI think it is reasonable now to assume this will never improve, and act accordingly.
EDIT: that thread actually refers to another on unacceptably long call times dating back to 2009!!!