The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) took several enforcement actions in December 2023, highlighting important lessons for professionals in various fields. Here are some key takeaways:
Reporting Obligations for Multi-State Licensees
An Indiana advanced practice nurse had their license placed on indefinite probation due to a sister-state discipline. This underscores the importance of understanding reporting requirements when licensed in multiple states. If you are being investigated or disciplined in one state, you may need to report this to other states where you hold a license. Failure to do so can lead to further disciplinary action.
Reporting Termination from Employment
A nurse’s license was indefinitely suspended for a minimum of 12 months due to a pattern of practice that establishes incapacity or incompetence, unprofessional conduct, unlawful taking of drugs, habitual or excessive use of or addiction to alcohol and drugs, and failure to report her termination from a hospital. If you are a nurse and are fired from a job, you must report the termination to IDFPR. A failure to report is a violation of the Nurse Practice Act and could result in disciplinary action.
Professional Conduct and Boundaries
A clinical social worker permanently surrendered their license due to allegations of sexual misconduct with a client. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and avoiding inappropriate relationships with clients. Pursuing a relationship with a current or former client can lead to severe consequences, including the loss of one’s professional license.
Supervision and Compliance
A real estate managing broker was fined $500 for allowing a previously sponsored licensee to practice without a license and failure to supervise. This serves as a reminder to ensure that all individuals practicing under your license are properly licensed and supervised. Failing to do so can result in penalties and jeopardize your hard-earned professional standing.
These enforcement actions highlight the importance of understanding and complying with professional regulations, reporting obligations, and maintaining ethical standards. Contact 1818 if you are the subject of an investigation or want to ensure that you are complying with your licensing act.
