THE NEWEST PAIN-IN-THE-ASS DEMAND.

When  respectable people make appointments they keep them, or they call within a reasonable time to cancel. Therefore it annoys the hell out of me when a doctor's receptionist calls when I'm out, and leaves a message commanding me to call the office to let them know if I plan to keep my appointment. In short they are saying, "Please call to let us know you are a respectable person." This is another irritating social obligation that most people accept like sheep, solely designed for the doctor's convenience. If you plan to keep an appointment I see no reason why you have to reassure a receptionist.