A DOH letter of investigation serves to provide you notice that DOH intends to investigate a complaint that was filed “in writing, signed by the complainant, and is legally sufficient.” The DOH may initiate an investigation if it has reasonable cause to believe that a licensee has violated a Florida statute, a rule of the department, or a rule of a board.
A DOH investigation is a state administrative action that can be loosely compared to an arrest in a criminal matter. Therefore, just like an arrest, many things could happen between initiation of the action (investigation) and a final disposition. Importantly, several things could occur resulting in no discipline against your license. These include, but are not limited to, the case being dismissed by DOH, a finding of no probable cause, a letter of concern (non-compliance), a settlement without discipline, or an adjudication of not guilty.
Licensees have the right to submit a written response within 20 days (45 days for physicians) from receipt of the letter. If you receive a letter of investigation you should retain a professional health care licensing attorney who has expertise in responding to these letters.