Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

RUTHERFORD COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A Rutherford County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Misty M. Hollars, 31, of Murfreesboro.

Hollars is charged with one count of TennCare fraud. She is accused of filling a prescription for the painkiller lortab, which was paid for by TennCare, then selling a portion of the pills.

"We're out to stop people from using TennCare to fund prescription drug sales, as local police and providers as well as citizens want to get this crime out of their communities," Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. "Prescription drug abuse has been a problem across the nation, but law enforcement and the healthcare community are working together to stop the crime in Tennessee."

If convicted, the TennCare fraud charge against Hollars could result in a two year sentence. District Attorney General William C. Whitesell, Jr. is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, over 1,100 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."