Bedford County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Bedford County woman is charged with TennCare fraud related to prescription drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that 36-year old Kimberly A. Rollins has been charged with two counts of TennCare fraud for the fraudulent use of TennCare to pay for prescriptions for the painkiller Lortab and the anti-anxiety medication Xanax.  Her arrest was assisted by the Tullahoma Police Department and the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office.

“We are working with local law enforcement agencies throughout the State of Tennessee to stop prescription fraud as it relates to the TennCare program,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “We are solidly focused on weeding this criminal abuse out of TennCare, and local police and healthcare providers want it out of their communities.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,000 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."