(a) In lieu of filing or prosecuting a formal accusation, the executive director or his/her designee may, by stipulation or settlement, issue a public letter of reprimand to a licensed physician and surgeon for minor violations.

(b) The division or its designee shall send a letter by certified mail notifying the licensee of its intention to issue a public letter of reprimand. The affected licensee shall indicate agreement or nonagreement in writing within 30 calendar days from the date of service. The division may, in its discretion, extend this response time.

(c) A letter from the division of its intent to issue a letter of reprimand shall include a copy of the proposed letter describing the nature and facts of the violation and shall state that the letter of reprimand is a public record which will be disclosed to an inquiring member of the public.