Sevier County Man Charged With TennCare "Doctor Shopping"

NASHVILLE – A Sevierville man has been charged with “doctor shopping” in the TennCare program – or going to multiple doctors for the same or similar prescriptions withing a short timeframe.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced arrest of Paul D. Allen, 47, of Sevierville, who was indicted on one count of fraudulently obtaining controlled substances by “doctor shopping.” Allen failed to disclose to his doctor that he had seen other physicians within a 30-day period and received similar prescriptions. District Attorney General James Dunn is prosecuting.

“Doctor shopping for drugs was a problem in TennCare until Governor Bredesen and the General Assembly passed a law against the activity, and it’s helped us crack down on even more of the drug fraud in TennCare,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.6 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $159 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 900 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.tncarefraud.tennessee.gov and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."