Sevier County Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE – A Sevier County woman has been arrested for attempting to use TennCare to fill a forged prescription.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Jennifer Hannah Parton, 28, of Kodak.  Her arrest was assisted by the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office.

A one-count indictment against Parton accuses her of altering a legitimate prescription by increasing the dosage.  The altered prescription, for the painkiller Percocet, was to be paid for by TennCare.

“There are many desperate measures some folks will take to get the prescription drugs they think they need for themselves or to sell, and altering the prescription to add narcotics is one of those methods that pharmacists should keep a watchful eye for,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We are thankful pharmacists are catching this and following up when they have questions.”

Parton faces one count of TennCare fraud. Penalties for the charge include up to two years in jail for TennCare fraud charge. District Attorney General James B. Dunn is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,100 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."