Williamson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Williamson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in connection with selling prescription drugs she obtained using TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Jennifer D. Dishman, 35, of Franklin. She is charged with using TennCare to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone and the anti-anxiety medication Alprazolam – then on four separate occasions, allegedly selling a portion of the drugs to a confidential informant.  Dishman is charged with four counts of TennCare fraud.  She was taken into custody by the Williamson County Narcotics Unit.

“We investigate TennCare fraud complaints and pursue criminal prosecution when the evidence deems it appropriate,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said.  “We encourage anyone with information regarding TennCare fraud to call our hotlines and we fully investigate every tip we receive.”

District Attorney General Kim Helper is prosecuting.  TennCare fraud is a Class D felony 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, 3,096 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.”