Davidson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Davidson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by TennCare.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Billie Sue Thompson, 56, of Nashville, after a joint investigation with Metro Nashville Police.  She’s charged in connection with filling a prescription for the painkiller Oxycodone, using TennCare as payment and then selling a portion of the drugs. Thompson was booked on the charge after a court appearance on unrelated charges.

“We work with local police across the state in drug investigations when it’s discovered public dollars through the TennCare program are involved,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “Local police are clearly committed to eliminating prescription drug abuse, and we’re doing our part to stop abusers who are supporting this lifestyle with TennCare.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Glenn Funk is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,331 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 Office of Inspector General and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."