(1) When the board has reason to believe, based upon its own information or a complaint or inquiry directed to the board, that an optometrist is suffering from a physical or mental condition that might impede his ability to practice competently, the board may order the optometrist to undergo a physical or mental examination by persons designated by the board, at the expense of the optometrist.
(2) Failure of an optometrist to submit to an examination when directed shall constitute an admission that the concerned optometrist has developed a physical or mental disability, or other conditions, that continued practice is dangerous to patients or to the public and the board may act accordingly pursuant to KRS § 320.310.
(3) The board may limit the optometrist’s license privileges pursuant to this section in addition to the other alternatives set forth in KRS § 320.310.
(4) An optometrist whose license has been suspended, limited, or revoked under this section shall, at reasonable intervals, be afforded an opportunity to demonstrate that he is able to resume the competent practice of optometry with reasonable skill and safety to patients.
Effective: July 14, 2000
History: Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 361, sec. 12, effective July 14, 2000. — Created
1990 Ky. Acts ch. 256, sec. 3, effective July 13, 1990.