Dyer County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Dyer County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping, or using the state’s healthcare insurance program to go to multiple providers to obtain controlled substances.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Dyersburg Police Department, today announced the arrest of Julie Smith, 49, of Finely.  She is charged with three counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping. Authorities say Smith used TennCare to obtain multiple prescriptions for the painkiller Oxycodone.

“The Office of Inspector General appreciates the cooperation of the Dyersburg Police Department in this investigation,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Public safety is our first concern; the OIG will always prioritize drug diversion cases.”

TennCare fraud is a Class D felony carrying a sentence of up to four years in prison per charge.  District Attorney General Danny Goodman is prosecuting.

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, 3,021 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.”