Hearings and disciplinary proceedings - Appeals

1. Upon receipt of a written and signed complaint that alleges that a licensee practicing in this state has engaged in unprofessional conduct as defined under section 33-30-05-02 and which sets forth information about which a reasonable person might believe that further inquiries should be made, the state health officer shall investigate the matter. 2. If the investigation reveals grounds to support the complaint, the advisory board shall initiate a disciplinary action by serving upon the licensee by certified mail a complaint setting forth the allegations upon which the action is based specifying the issues to be determined. 3. If a written response contesting the allegations is not received by the board within twenty days of service of the complaint, the allegations are deemed admitted and appropriate disciplinary sanctions are to be imposed. 4. If a disciplinary action has been initiated as provided in subsection 2, the state health officer may offer to meet with the licensee informally for the purpose of determining whether the disciplinary action, including imposition of appropriate sanctions, can be resolved by mutual agreement. 5. If an informal agreement cannot be reached, or the state health officer elects not to offer the licensee an opportunity for informal resolution of the matter, the licensee is entitled to a hearing under North Dakota Century Code chapter 28-32. Appeal from the board's final decision may be taken in accordance with North Dakota Century Code section 28-32-42. 6. Employers of persons licensed under this article will be notified of any action taken with respect to said license.