Anderson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – An Anderson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in nearby Roane County, for allegedly using TennCare to get pain medication that she planned to sell.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Marilyn A. Seeber, 53, of Oak Ridge, after a joint investigation with the Oak Ridge Police Department and the Roane County Sheriff’s Office.

Seeber has been charged with one count of TennCare fraud.  She is accused of using TennCare to fill a prescription for the painkiller Roxicodone, which is a brand version of Oxycodone, and then selling a portion of the pills.

“The message is getting out that we are working with local police officers and providers across the state to put an end to the use of TennCare to get drugs to sell,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “In some cases, though, people clearly don’t think they’ll be caught, but we are working to end this activity and we’re intent on finding these crimes and placing charges in each case.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Seeber could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney Russell Johnson is prosecuting.

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 1,100 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."