Rutherford Co. Woman Charged with TennCare Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A Rutherford County woman is charged with TennCare fraud involving doctor shopping, a crime involving the use of TennCare benefits to obtain controlled substances by visiting multiple doctors in a short period of time.                                                                                  

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), with the assistance of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, today announced the arrest of Annette Davidson, 49, of Murfreesboro.  She is charged with fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by doctor shopping in connection with obtaining prescriptions for the painkiller Hydrocodone.

“Prescription drug fraud has been a significant burden on the health care system,” Inspector General Manny Tyndall said.  “We’re committed to eliminating this crime in the TennCare program, and local police and providers across the state are working with us in the effort.”

TennCare fraud is a Class E felony, carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Jennings H. Jones 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, 2,328 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."