Shelby Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. –– A Shelby County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping, which involves visiting multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Cassundra Woodman, 28, of Memphis. She is charged with three counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping and one count of theft of property. An indictment says she used TennCare to doctor shop for prescriptions for the painkillers Oxycodone and Hydrocodone.

“Obtaining prescription drugs illegally utilizing TennCare benefits will not be tolerated,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Local law enforcement agencies and healthcare providers across the state have been diligent in collaborating with us to help fight the opioid epidemic in Tennessee.”

TennCare fraud is a Class D felony carrying a sentence of up to four years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Amy T. Weirich 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, 3,070 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 www.tn.gov/tnoig/ and follow the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”