For purposes of this article, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1) BOARD. The Alabama Board of Optometry.
(2) IMPAIRED or IMPAIRMENT. The inability of an optometrist to practice optometry with reasonable skill and safety to patients by reason of illness, inebriation, excessive use of drugs, narcotics, alcohol, chemicals, or other substances or as a result of any physical or mental condition.
(3) IMPAIRED DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY TREATMENT PROGRAM. The Alabama Board of Optometry approved or sponsored program for the detection, intervention, and monitoring of impaired providers.
(4) PROFESSIONAL INCOMPETENCE. The inability or failure of an optometrist to practice his or her profession with reasonable skill and safety; however, impairment in and of itself shall not give rise to a presumption of professional incompetence.
(5) TREATMENT PROGRAM. A plan of care and rehabilitation services provided by those organizations and persons authorized to provide such services for impaired providers taking part in the programs provided under this article.
Structure Code of Alabama
Title 34 - Professions and Businesses.
Article 6 - Impaired Doctor of Optometry Treatment Program.
Section 34-22-101 - Definitions.
Section 34-22-102 - Powers and Duties of Board.
Section 34-22-103 - Procedures for Notification of Program, Self-Reporting, and Participation.
Section 34-22-104 - Evaluation; Hearing.
Section 34-22-105 - Restriction of License Upon Request.
Section 34-22-106 - Confidentiality of Records; Discovery; Limitations on Testimony.
Section 34-22-107 - Limitations or Restrictions to Employment on Basis of Treatment Prohibited.
Section 34-22-108 - Liability.
Section 34-22-109 - Responsibilities of Optometrists Under Article.