Jefferson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Doctor Shopping

Tuesday, May 26, 2015 | 12:00am

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Jefferson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving “doctor shopping,” or using TennCare to go to multiple doctors in a short time period to obtain controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Brittany L. Atkins, 24, of White Pine.

“We intend to stop the use of TennCare to access prescription drugs for personal abuse or resale in Tennessee,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “Prescription drug abuse is a problem everywhere, but we have stronger laws to combat this crime in TennCare and we are fulling exercising these regulations.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison per charge. District Attorney General James Dunn 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, 2,365 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."