Alabama Woman Must Repay State After TennCare Fraud Conviction

NASHVILLE – An Alabama woman is ordered to repay the state after conviction for TennCare fraud and theft of property.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Jessica Dean Skinner, 33, is ordered to repay the state $56,921.33 and she’ll be on probation for ten years. Skinner was charged in April of this year in Marshall County with falsely reporting she lived in Tennessee when she was residing in Alabama. She was also charged for falsely reporting she had custody of her children in order to appear eligible for TennCare. The case was prosecuted by District Attorney General Robert J. Carter of Marshall County.

“We appreciate the perseverance of the Marshall County District Attorney General’s Office in bringing prosecution of TennCare fraud to the forefront in their local communities,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “Our office will continue to do our part and preserve the integrity of TennCare benefits, so that those truly deserving of and eligible for TennCare have the best resources.”

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February of 2005 and has investigated more than 5,760 criminal cases leading to in excess of $10.8 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. TennCare’s budget is comprised of both federal and state dollars: 65% and 35% respectfully. To date, 3,122 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

The OIG’s most wanted for TennCare fraud are posted online at https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html. Anyone with information about their whereabouts is urged to use the contact information on the page.

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.”