Cease and desist orders are sent when a licensee violates what?

Cease and desist orders are issued primarily in response to violations of the rules or laws established by the regulatory board overseeing the profession. In the context of optometry, this refers to actions or practices that do not meet the standards outlined by the Arizona State Board of Optometry or any applicable state laws governing the practice.

When a licensee is found to be engaging in conduct that contravenes these regulations—whether it involves improper medical practices, failure to maintain necessary licensure standards, or other violations—the board has the authority to intervene by issuing a cease and desist order. This order serves as an immediate measure to prevent further violations and protect public health and safety, as well as uphold the integrity of the profession.

While professional ethics, state regulations, and contractual obligations play important roles in the practice of optometry, cease and desist orders focus specifically on the legal framework established by the board, which governs practitioners' conduct and ensures compliance with professional standards.