It is the public policy of the state that:
(1) Optometrists rendering visual care to citizens shall practice in an ethical, professional manner;
(2) Optometrists' practices shall be free from any influences that would interfere with their exercise of professional judgment;
(3) The visual welfare of the optometrist's patient shall be the prime consideration at all times; and
(4) Optometrists shall not be associated with any person or persons in any manner that might degrade or reduce the quality of visual care received by the citizens of this state.