Dickson County Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud in Two Counties

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Dickson County woman is charged with TennCare prescription drug fraud in both Davidson and Williamson Counties.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Theresa Ann Aldridge, 35, of Dickson.

Aldridge was charged in Davidson County with fraudulently using TennCare to obtain the painkiller Hydrocodone by doctor shopping – which involves going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain prescription drugs. After making bond, Stewart was transported to the Williamson County Jail where she was served with two similar counts of TennCare fraud by doctor shopping involving Hydrocodone.

“People who are doctor shopping for drugs are finding it harder to do in the electronic age, even if they go to another county,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. “But the key to our success in winning the war against drug fraud is the vigilant work of providers and local law enforcement agencies across Tennessee.”

District Attorney General Glenn R. Funk will prosecute the Davidson County case.  District Attorney General Kim Helper will prosecute the Williamson County case. TennCare fraud is now a Class D felony punishable by up to four years in prison.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,839 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 visit the website and follow the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”