Rule 430-3-.01. Code of Ethics
The following Code of Ethics is hereby adopted by the Board to govern and as a guide for the conduct of licensed Doctor of Optometry in the practice of optometry in this state. Each licensed Doctor of Optometry shall:
- (a) keep the visual or optometric welfare of the patient uppermost at all times;
- (b) promote in every possible way the better care of the health needs of the citizens of this state;
- (c) enhance continuously their educational and technical proficiency to the end that their patients shall receive the benefits of all acknowledged improvements in visual care;
- (d) see that no worthy person shall lack for optometric care regardless of the financial status of the person;
- (e) advise each patient whenever consultation with an optometric colleague or referral for other professional care seems advisable;
- (f) hold in professional confidence all information concerning a patient and use such data only for the benefit of the patient;
- (g) conduct themselves as exemplary citizens;
- (h) maintain their office and practice in harmony with true professional standards:
- (i) maintain and promote cordial and useful mutual relationships with members of their profession and other professions for the interchange of information for the advantage of mankind;
- (j) refrain from any exaggeration of a patient's condition.
Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-25, 43-30-5.
History. Original Rule entitled "Code of Ethics" was filed and effective on June 30, 1965.
Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of the same title adopted. Filed June 13, 1984; effective July 3, 1984.
Amended: F. Mar. 6, 2023; eff. Mar. 26, 2023.