Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

ROANE CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE "DOCTOR SHOPPING"

NASHVILLE – A Roane County woman is charged in Cumberland County with TennCare fraud involving “doctor shopping,” which involves a person going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain prescription drugs, and use TennCare as payment.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of Sheriff’s officers in Roane and Cumberland counties, today announced the arrest of Crystal G. Farrar, 33, of Harriman.   Charges say she was “doctor shopping” with multiple doctors for the painkiller Oxycodone, using TennCare to pay for the doctor visits.

"We are delighted with the response we have received from physicians across the state in support of cracking down on people who try to doctor shop,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “Before the doctor shopping law, a medical provider’s hands were tied -- now they are call the OIG and we aggressively pursue these individuals.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General Randall A. York will be prosecuting this case.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,600 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

Through the OIG Cash for Tips Program established by the Legislature, Tennesseans can get cash rewards for TennCare fraud tips that lead to convictions.  Anyone can report suspected TennCare fraud by calling 1-800-433-3982 toll-free from anywhere in Tennessee, or log on to www.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."