Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

WILLIAMSON CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Williamson County woman has been arrested on a warrant for TennCare fraud.  TennCare is the state’s public healthcare insurance program. 

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Ellen Kimberly Taylor, 38, of Fairview.  Taylor was arrested after a joint investigation with the Fairview Police Department.

The arrest warrant charges Taylor with using TennCare to fill a prescription for the painkiller Percocet, then transferring a portion of the prescription to a co-defendant.

“Local police as well as medical providers are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “We are doing our part to stop abusers who misuse the TennCare program this way, in particular.”

If convicted, the TennCare fraud charge against Taylor could result in a two-year sentence.  District Attorney General Kim Helper is prosecuting.

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, nearly 1,500 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."