Blount County Woman To Repay State in TennCare Fraud Case

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Blount County woman is ordered to repay the state more than $69,000.00 after her case went to court in Blount County.  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Jamie Frisell, 52, was sentenced in Blount County, where she was accused of enrolling in TennCare by falsely reporting her household structure and income. Frisell must repay the state a total of $69,701.88 for benefits received as a result of the action.  

Frisell was arrested in May of last year, when she was charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services over $60,000.00.

“We appreciate the perseverance of the Blount County District Attorney General’s Office in bringing prosecution of TennCare fraud to the forefront in their local communities,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Our office will continue to do our part and preserve the integrity of TennCare benefits, so that those truly deserving of and eligible for TennCare have the best resources.”

The case was prosecuted by District Attorney General Mike Flynn’s office.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,092 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/tnoig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare fraud.”