Henderson Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud
NASHVILLE – A Henderson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud and theft of property in connection with allegedly misrepresenting her financial situation to access TennCare benefits she wasn’t eligible to receive.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG), in a joint effort with the Henderson County Sheriff’, today announced the arrest of 38-year-old Jeanifer Donegan of Lexington, Tennessee.
Investigators allege that Donegan claimed she had custody of her two children and that they were living in her home. As a result, TennCare paid more than $21,743.00 in fees and claims.
“The TennCare program is designed to help those who rightfully qualify for benefits,” Interim Inspector General Chad Holman said. “OIG strives to ensure that those taking advantage of Tennessee’s Medicaid program will be brought to justice.”
TennCare fraud is a class D felony and theft of property is a Class C felony. The case is being prosecuted by District 26 Attorney General Jody S. Pickens.
The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has identified and investigated more than 130,349 potential fraud cases leading to more than $9.2 million being repaid to TennCare. In the last year ending June 30, 2021 total estimated cost avoidance was more than $7.5 million, according to the latest figures. TennCare's budget is 65 percent federal dollars and 35 percent state dollars. To date, 3,155 people of been charged with TennCare Fraud.
To access the OIG most wanted list, visit https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html.
Anyone with information about a wanted subject 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.”