Friday, August 20, 2010
Giles County Woman Charged With TennCare Fraud
A Giles County woman is charged with TennCare fraud for attempting to use TennCare benefits to pay for an altered prescription.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) with assistance from Giles County Sheriff’s Officers today announced the arrest of Holley A. Harris, 26, of Pulaski.
A one-count indictment against Harris accuses her of altering a legitimate prescription and attempting to use TennCare benefits to pay for the altered prescription.
“Prescription drug fraud takes many forms, and altering the prescription is one of those methods that pharmacists keep a watchful eye for,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “We are thankful pharmacists are catching this and following up when they have questions and suspicions.”
Harris faces one count of TennCare fraud. Penalties for the charge include up to two years in jail. Giles County District Attorney General Mike Bottoms is prosecuting.
The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated cases leading to over $2.5 million paid in restitution and recoupment to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of over $171 million for the TennCare program, according to latest figures. To date, over 1,240 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 "
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