Macon Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Macon County woman is charged with TennCare doctor shopping in nearby Smith County. The arrest brings the total number of people arrested for TennCare fraud to 2,500 since the Office of Inspector General (OIG) began investigating and pursuing this criminal activity.

The OIG, with assistance from Smith County Sheriff’s Officers, today announced the arrest of Christy M. Allen, 41, of Red Boiling Springs. A Smith County Grand Jury charged Allen with fraudulently using TennCare to obtain a controlled substance by doctor shopping – which involves going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain controlled substances. The charges relate to prescriptions obtained for the painkillers Oxycodone and Hydrocodone, with the physician office visits, prescriptions or both being paid for by TennCare.

“Our mission is to preserve the integrity of TennCare by preventing fraud and abuse of the program, especially in the area of prescription drugs,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “Local officials have been incredibly helpful because they also want to stop prescription drug abuse in their communities.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Tom P. Thompson is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,500 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 go to https://www.tn.gov/tnoig.