(a) The secretary shall establish rules for prompt investigation of all complaints of alleged violations by nursing homes of applicable requirements of state law or rules, except for such complaints that the secretary determines are willfully intended to harass a licensee or are without any reasonable basis. Such procedures shall include provisions for ensuring the confidentiality of the complainant and for promptly informing the complaint and the nursing home involved of the results of the investigation.
(b) If, after its investigation, the secretary determines that the complaint has merit, the secretary shall take appropriate disciplinary action and shall advise any injured party of the possibility of a civil remedy.
(1) A nursing home or licensee adversely affected by an order or citation of a deficient practice issued pursuant to this section may request the independent informal dispute resolution process contained in §16-5C-12a of this code.