655—4.4(17A,147,152,272C) Board action. When reviewing complaints and investigative material, the board shall do one of the following:
	4.4(1) Close the case without further action.
	4.4(2) Close the case and issue the licensee a confidential letter of warning or letter of education. The purpose of confidential letters of warning and letters of education is to alert the licensee to possible violations of Iowa law or board rules so the licensee may address any issues. Confidential letters of warning and letters of education do not constitute formal disciplinary action and are not open for inspection under Iowa Code chapter 22. The board shall maintain a copy of confidential letters of warning and letters of education in the confidential investigative file regarding the licensee. Confidential letters of warning and letters of education may be used as evidence against a licensee in future contested case hearings before the board.
	4.4(3) Request further investigation, including obtaining a peer review.
	4.4(4) Determine the existence of probable cause and issue a notice of hearing and statement of charges or approve a combined statement of charges and settlement agreement.
[ARC 6198C, IAB 2/23/22, effective 3/30/22]