Blount Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

Friday, July 10, 2020 | 01:52pm
Diana Jones

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Blount County woman has been charged with TennCare fraud for selling part of a prescription for pain pills that were obtained by using TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Maryville Police Department and the Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force of Alcoa, TN, today announced the arrest of 59-year old Diana Jones of Maryville. She is charged with one count of TennCare Fraud, a class D felony in an indictment that says she knowingly used TennCare benefits for a doctor’s appointment that resulted in a prescription for 120 Oxycodone 20 milligram tablets. Authorities say after using TennCare to pay for the pills, Jones sold a portion to a confidential informant.    

“The OIG would like to recognize the joint effort of both the Maryville Police Department and the Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force and stress the importance of thwarting individuals from abusing the TennCare program,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said.  “We hope to continue these strong established relationships with local authorities to get dangerous drugs out of our communities.”

If convicted, Jones could face penalties of up to 12 years in prison for the charge, which is a class D felony.   The case is being prosecuted by District Attorney General Mike Flynn of Blount County.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to more than 10.9 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $164.5 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 3,164 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.”