Sumner Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Sumner County woman is charged in nearby Robertson County with fraudulently obtaining TennCare benefits by falsely claiming her minor children resided with her in order to be eligible for TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Amber N. Parrish, 35, of Goodlettsville. She is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services over $10,000 in an indictment accusing her of making false and fictitious statements to the state, claiming her minor children as dependents in her household in order to be eligible for TennCare benefits.  Parrish received $10,357.66 in TennCare medical assistance benefits she did not qualify for.

“We welcome information regarding those providing false information in order to receive TennCare benefits,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said.  “The Office of Inspector General works diligently to protect the integrity of the TennCare resources.”

District Attorney General John W. Carney is prosecuting.  TennCare fraud is a Class D felony punishable by up to four years in prison per charge. Theft of Services over $10,000 is a Class C felony that carries a sentence of up to six years in prison.

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, 3,11 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/oig/ and follow the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”