Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

SHELBY COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE "DOCTOR SHOPPING"

NASHVILLE – A Shelby County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving “doctor shopping,” or using TennCare to go to multiple doctors in a short time period to obtain controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint investigation with the Shelby and Tipton County Sheriff’s Offices, today announced the arrest of Verna Jean Baker, 57, of Memphis. Baker is charged with three counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by “doctor shopping.” Baker failed to disclose to her doctor that she had seen other physicians within a 30-day period and received prescriptions for the strong painkiller Hydrocodone, with the physician office visits paid for by TennCare. 

“The unauthorized use and abuse of prescription drugs is a serious public concern,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. “We are committed to ensuring TennCare benefits are used to improve the public health, not jeopardize it.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years per charge in prison.   District Attorney General Michael Dunavant 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."