Sullivan Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Drug Fraud

NASHVILLE, TN – A Sullivan County woman is accused of TennCare fraud for attempting to use the program to pay for a forged prescription.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced the arrest of 22-year old Brittany Olmos, of Kingsport. She was indicted on charges of TennCare fraud and attempting to obtain a controlled substance by fraud.  The charges against her say she presented a forged prescription at a pharmacy, and tried to use TennCare benefits to pay for the forgery.

“We are intent on stopping drug fraud activity in TennCare, as people are harming themselves and people in their communities as well as all Tennessee taxpayers,” Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said.  “Providers, local police, and private citizens are playing a huge role in our efforts and we go hard after every tip we receive.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud is a Class D felony that carries a sentence of up to four years in prison. District Attorney General Barry P. Staubus 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, 2,076 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."