Blount Co. Man Charged with TennCare Fraud
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Blount County man has been charged in nearby Knox County with TennCare fraud for filling a forged prescription and using TennCare healthcare insurance benefits as payment.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Brandon French Adams, 36, of Tallassee.
Adams is charged with TennCare fraud and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud for using TennCare to pay for a fraudulent prescription for Suboxone, which is used to treat addiction to opiates. Suboxone can cause fatal side effects if used with alcohol or with other drugs. Authorities say Adams knowingly and unlawfully obtained Suboxone.
“Many drugs are dangerous and can be fatal if used outside a doctor’s care and we need to stop the flow of these drugs into our communities,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “We’re committed to eliminating abuse of prescription drug benefits in the TennCare program.”
District Attorney General Charme P. Allen is prosecuting. TennCare fraud and obtaining a controlled substance by fraud are Class D felonies punishable by up to four years in prison per charge.
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, 2,921 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 800-433-3982 toll-free from anywhere in Tennessee, or visit the website and follow the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”