Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

COCKE CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE "DOCTOR SHOPPING"

NASHVILLE – A Cocke County woman has been indicted in Knox County for TennCare fraud involving “doctor shopping,” or going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) with the assistance of the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office today announced the arrest of Nichole Weyman, 27, of Cosby.  Weyman is charged with one count of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain a controlled substance by “doctor shopping.”  Weyman saw multiple physicians in a 30-day period, receiving prescriptions for the same or similar controlled substance, with the doctor’s visit being paid for by TennCare.

"Our continuing mission is to help prevent fraud and abuse of the TennCare program, especially in the area of prescription drugs," Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “Local law enforcement officials have been incredibly helpful because they want to stop prescription drug abuse in their communities.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.  District Attorney General Randall Nichols 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."