An Oliver Springs man is charged in Cumberland County with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs obtained by using TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.
The Office of Inspector General on Wednesday announced the arrest of James E. Hall, 50, of Oliver Springs, after a joint investigation with the Oliver Springs Police Department. Hall is charged with TennCare fraud in allegations that he filled a prescription for the painkiller morphine, later selling a portion of the pills. TennCare paid for the physician office visit where he obtained the prescription for morphine.
“Selling prescription drugs to other people is illegal, and selling drugs obtained by using public healthcare insurance benefits is equally illegal and intolerable,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Providers, local police officers and others are working with us to stop drug fraud in TennCare.”
The TennCare fraud charge against Hall could result in a two-year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Randall A. York is prosecuting.
The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, more than 1,700 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 (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.”
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