Sumner Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Sumner County woman is charged with fraudulently obtaining TennCare healthcare insurance benefits by falsely claiming a dependent in order to qualify for TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Amy Nicole Anderson, 36, of Gallatin. She surrendered at the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office.

Anderson is charged with three counts of TennCare fraud and theft of services over $10,000.  Anderson is accused of making false statements, claiming her minor child as a member of her household, in order to be eligible for TennCare benefits.

“People who misrepresent something about their current situation in order to qualify for TennCare are going to be caught and prosecuted,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “TennCare fraud is a felony, and a conviction could mean jail time and/or paying restitution for any medical and or pharmacy services fraudulently received.”

The TennCare fraud charge carries up to a two-year sentence per charge, and the theft of services charge could result in a sentence up to 6 years. District Attorney General Lawrence R. Whitley is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,388 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 Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."