Virginia Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

Thursday, May 14, 2020 | 10:54am
Tasha Testerman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A woman in Virginia is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services for allegedly filing false information in order to obtain TennCare benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of 35-year old Tasha Testerman, a former resident of Sullivan County, Tennessee, now living in Virginia.

Testerman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of services over $10,000 but under $60,000. Authorities say when Testerman lived in Tennessee, she falsely reported custody of her son in order to obtain TennCare benefits for herself and her child. This misrepresentation resulted in TennCare paying $42,040.21 in fees and claims on their behalf,   

“The TennCare program is designed to provide benefits for individuals who rightfully qualify,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Providing false information about one’s household composition will always be diligently investigated for the purpose of preserving TennCare resources.”

The theft of services charge is a class C felony and the TennCare fraud charge is a class D felony.  If convicted, Testerman could face penalties of up to a maximum of 27 years in prison for the charges. The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Barry P. Staubus of Sullivan County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,156 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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare Fraud.”