Tipton Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Tipton County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for selling prescription drugs paid for by the state’s healthcare insurance program.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of Deborah Elaine Allison, 63, of Covington, after a joint investigation with the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office.

Allison charged with TennCare fraud in an indictment accusing her of using TennCare benefits to obtain the pain reliever Hydrocodone, later unlawfully selling a portion of the drugs.

"Tax dollars are needed for covering legitimate medical services for people who are members of the state´s TennCare program," Inspector General Manny Tyndall said. "We are working closely with local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies to investigate and prosecute these types of crimes."

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Michael Dunavant is prosecuting.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $5 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $176 million for TennCare, according to latest figures.  To date, 2,212 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."