(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.

Terms Used In Kentucky Statutes 320.312

  • Board: means the Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners. See Kentucky Statutes 320.210
  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Practice of optometry: means :
    (a) The evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, or surgical, nonsurgical, or related treatment of diseases, disorders, or conditions of the eye and its appendages and their impact on the human body provided by an optometrist within the scope of his or her education, training, and experience and in accordance with this chapter, the ethics of the profession, and applicable law. See Kentucky Statutes 320.210

(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.