SUMNER COUNTY WOMAN CHARGED WITH TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE, TN – A Sumner County woman has been charged with TennCare fraud for allegedly trying to use her public healthcare insurance to pay for forged prescriptions.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 20-year old Whitney Morgan of Gallatin. 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, 288 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

Morgan is accusing of attempting to fill two forged prescriptions – on the same date at separate locations - for a schedule II narcotic. District Attorney Lawrence Ray Whitley and Assistant District Attorney Ron Blanton will prosecute this case. If convicted Morgan could serve up to two years in prison.

“The cooperation we receive from local law enforcement officials has been priceless in helping us clean up TennCare,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “That’s especially true in the area of prescription drug fraud, a problem that’s made its mark in rural communities as well as our cities.”

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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read “Report Fraud Now.”