This doesn't surprise me. It is much like not "approving" military leave until they see orders. Or calling me and my commander. I sent in the orders this time, but won't again. Management is way out of line.

But if they insist on a note, I wouldn't do so on my own time. Schedule your appointment on the same day as a trip. Call your manager and have pull you from your trip. What is the doctor going to say anyway? "The patient had the runs 6 days ago. He took pepto. He is well now." Give me a break, this is just pure harrassment. This "request" serves no other purpose.

On second thought, just call the union and make them earn their money. I wouldn't answer any calls from the company, even from the "blocked" numbers they use. These aren't friendly calls, believe me.