Department of Finance & Administration
Mark Emkes, Commissioner

HAMILTON CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH 24 COUNTS OF TENNCARE FRAUD

NASHVILLE – A Hamilton County woman is charged with 24 counts of TennCare fraud for using someone else’s TennCare benefits to pay for fraudulent prescriptions for drugs.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Jacqueline Rogers, 58, of Ooltewah.  The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the arrest.

Rogers is charged with 24 counts of TennCare fraud, alleging that between January 1, 2009, and August 11, 2011, Rogers committed forgery, using the TennCare benefits of another enrollee to obtain prescription drugs, including muscle relaxers as well as drugs to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type-2 diabetes and ulcers.

The TennCare fraud charge against Rogers could result in a two year sentence per charge, 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 $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,600 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."