No, you can actually have 'on call' shifts where you do have to call in to see if they need you, and they don't need to pay you for the time that is 'on call.' It's not considered illegal, and yes, if you cannot make it, then you have to call in sick, b/c it's technically a scheduled shift.

The purpose of an 'on call' shift is usually b/c if the store is busy and they need an extra person, they can call that individual in....or yes, if someone calls in sick for work, it's kinda like a backup.

I'm not denying that it totally sucks that you cannot make plans until the last minute, but unfortunately, that's how retail works (i'm assuming it's some sort of retail job?). The good thing is that you have a 3hr grace before hand, so why don't you let your friends know that you have 'tentative' plans, but that if you have to work, you'll have to cancel??

I had many 'on call' shifts before, and yes it totally sucked, but i had to bite the bullet and go through with it. I'd often make plans with friends and then reschedule, or go out afterwards anyways.

The only thing I can suggest is possibly switching shifts with someone who has a scheduled shift, if you want the $$ that is.....or see if someone else wants the 'on call' shift.

As for the rule of the doctor's note.....i'm not too sure about the legalities around that....they may just be saying that b/c people might be constantly calling in sick, and they may be finding that it's becoming hard to have people show up for shifts....i'm not too sure