Section 405IAC5-21.8-11. Complaints and grievances

   (a) The following individuals may file a written complaint or a written grievance with the state or the office:

(1) An applicant.

(2) A member.

(3) A duly authorized representative of:

(A) an applicant; or

(B) a member.

  (b) Upon receipt of a complaint or grievance, the office shall:

(1) log the complaint or grievance; and

(2) initiate an investigation.

  (c) The office's decision with regard to a complaint or grievance is not appealable.

  (d) The filing of a complaint or grievance is not a prerequisite to filing an appeal under section 10 of this rule.

  (e) If the office issues findings regarding a complaint or a grievance of an applicant or a member, the office may require the provider agency to correct an identified deficiency within a timeline established by the office. A provider agency's failure to correct the deficiency within the established timeline may result in sanctions up to and including decertification of the provider agency. (Office of the Secretary of Family and Social Services; 405 IAC 5-21.8-11; filed Apr 8, 2014, 12:41 p.m.: 20140507-IR-405130530FRA; filed Aug 1, 2016, 3:44 p.m.: 20160831-IR-405150418FRA)