Washington Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Washington County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for using the program to obtain prescription drugs she’s accused of selling to others.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Rhonda L. Saylor, 41, of Johnson City.

Saylor was indicted on one count of TennCare fraud for using TennCare to pay for a prescription of the painkiller Percocet at a pharmacy in Johnson City, while planning to sell a portion of the drugs.

“We make gains every day in getting prescription drugs off the streets in Tennessee,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said.  “And we are intent on removing this activity from the TennCare program.”

The TennCare fraud charge against Saylor could result in a two year sentence, if convicted. District Attorney General Tony Clark is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $173 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures.  To date, over 1,700 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."