What occurs if a licensed person refuses to provide services based on race?

When a licensed person, such as an optometrist, refuses to provide services based on a person’s race, it constitutes a violation of anti-discrimination laws and regulations. In California, individuals are protected against discrimination in various settings, including healthcare. Refusing service on the basis of race is not only unethical but also illegal, and it undermines the principles of equality and access that are vital in the field of optometry and healthcare at large.

Therefore, the appropriate action following such a refusal is disciplinary action from the appropriate regulatory board. This could include a range of consequences such as probation, suspension of the license, or even revocation of the license depending on the severity of the offense. This approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards and protecting patients' rights within the profession.