Hamilton County Woman Added to Charges in TennCare Fraud Case

NASHVILLE – A Hamilton County woman is charged in connection with the arrest earlier this month of a husband and wife charged with TennCare fraud.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Erica J. Davis, 26, of Chattanooga. She’s accused of presenting forged prescriptions for the painkiller hydrocodone, along with xanax – which is an anti-anxiety medication - and atenolol, a drug prescribed for hypertension.  The prescriptions were written for another person who has TennCare benefits.  The couple charged in the case is accused of using another person’s TennCare benefits to pay for fraudulent prescriptions.

“We hope everyone is getting the message that we are serious about pursuing TennCare fraud, especially when we have family members colluding to get prescription drugs illegally,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.

The TennCare fraud charge against Davis could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General William H. Cox 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."