Davidson County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud
NASHVILLE – A Davidson County woman is charged with TennCare fraud, accused of lying to the state to obtain TennCare healthcare insurance benefits.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 44-year old Tina P. Clark, of Hermitage. Her arrest was assisted by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.
An indictment accuses Clark of two counts of TennCare fraud and one count of theft of services. The indictment alleges that through fraud, false pretense and other deceptions, Clark received medical services valued at over $10,000 that she wasn’t eligible for because she provided false information in order to qualify for TennCare.
“Tennesseans deserve a healthcare insurance program for people who qualify for the program, and we are committed to protecting the integrity of TennCare,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We are weeding out those people who are not eligible for TennCare benefits and we are pursuing charges against people who misrepresent their employment, assets or income to get benefits they’re not entitled to.”
If convicted, Clark could be sentenced to up to six years on the Class C felony theft of services charge, and two years on each Class E felony TennCare fraud charge. District Attorney General Victor S. Johnson, III will prosecute.
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 $165 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, over 920 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.tn.gov/tnoig and follow the prompts that read "Report TennCare Fraud."