Knox Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Doctor Shopping

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Knox County woman is charged with TennCare fraud in nearby Anderson County, stemming from prescription drug fraud.  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Cathy E. Moore, 46, of Oak Ridge.  She was indicted by an Anderson County Grand Jury on eight counts of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping; and, eight counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.  Moore used TennCare benefits to pay for the clinical visits.

“This continues to be an ongoing battle with people defrauding TennCare for their drugs and it’s a battle we will continue to fight.”  Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We are sending out a message across Tennessee there is a zero tolerance policy for TennCare fraud and abuse, and we’re aggressively enforcing it.

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

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $3 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. To date, 2,330 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."