MACON COUNTY COUPLE CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Macon County couple is charged with TennCare fraud, after it was discovered they were not eligible for the program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Christopher Hix, 39 and his wife, Becky Hix, 38, are charged for intentionally not reporting that the husband had access to health care insurance through his workplace, which would have disqualified their family from TennCare.

Governor Phil Bredesen created the OIG, one of the first units of its kind in the nation, in 2004. Since it became operational in February 2005, 264 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

Both the husband and wife are each charged with one count of theft of services and one count of TennCare fraud for falsifying and concealing the fact that Christopher had health insurance available through his employer. The Hix’ unlawfully received medical benefits of more than $10,000 but less than $60,000.

“We will prosecute both husband and wife when an investigation points to both individuals, no matter who completes the TennCare application,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We intend to make sure that everyone on the program is eligible for TennCare.”

The charges are Class C and Class E felonies punishable by up to six years in prison. The Macon County Sheriff’s office assisted in the arrest. District Attorney Tommy Thompson is prosecuting.