The Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) decides what to do in each case by thinking about the possible negative outcomes of the member’s conduct. The ICRC thinks about this in terms of “risk.”
The ICRC considers both impact and recurrence risks. Impact risks include those to specific individuals, the general public and the profession. Recurrence risks include concerns about the member’s conduct history, the practices, processes or systems the member has in place, and the member’s awareness of the practice concerns identified.
The ICRC uses the ICRC Risk Assessment Framework, below, to help categorize these risks. The Framework also helps the ICRC identify the range of appropriate outcomes in relation to the risks.
The outcomes available to the ICRC after the investigation of a complaint or report include:
- No further action: A panel may decide to take no further action if it decides that the member’s conduct poses no risk to the public.
- Advice: A panel may give advice if it identifies low risks. Advice is meant to help the member avoid future risks.
- Undertaking: A panel may ask for an undertaking from the member if it identifies moderate risks. An undertaking is remedial and can range from a minor change in practice to having a mentor.
- Caution: A panel may caution a member if it identifies moderate risks. The member must come to the College to receive the caution in person. Cautions are remedial and may include a discussion between the panel and the member. Cautions are not open to the public.
- Specified Continuing Education or Remediation Program (SCERP): A panel can order a SCERP if it identifies moderate risks. A SCERP is remedial and can include a specific course of study.
- Referral to the Discipline Committee: If the ICRC identifies high risks, it may refer the matter to the Discipline Committee for a full hearing.