Here's why:
* The irony is situational. The doctor, whose job is to help others when they are ill, is now the one who is sick and unable to work. This creates a humorous contrast, highlighting the unexpected and humorous nature of the situation.
While not technically a literary technique, the sentence also demonstrates understatement. The sentence simply states the doctor is ill and cancels her appointments, without emphasizing the severity of her illness or the inconvenience it causes. This creates a sense of dry humor, making the situation even more ironic.