Scott County Man Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE - A Scott County man is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs that had been purchased using TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of David Lee Anderson, 42, of Oneida, after a joint investigation with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.

Anderson is charged with one count of TennCare fraud for filling a prescription for the painkiller Hydrocodone and then selling a portion of the pills, after using TennCare to pay for the doctor’s office visit where he obtained the prescription.

“Reselling prescription drugs is illegal, and using TennCare to get the drugs makes this especially offensive to citizens of Tennessee,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “Our communities have made it clear they want this activity targeted and stopped.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Anderson could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General William Paul Phillips 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."