A Marion County man faces charges in nearby Bradley County for TennCare fraud involving “doctor shopping,” which involves going to multiple doctors to obtain drugs.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) with the assistance of the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday announced the arrest of Randy W. Troy, 44, of Whitwell. He is charged with one count of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain a controlled substance by “doctor shopping,” or going to multiple doctors in a short period of time to obtain prescription drugs.
“When individuals misuse their TennCare benefits, it’s a serious issue the Office of Inspector General will not tolerate,” Inspector General Deborah Y. Faulkner said. “Anyone committing TennCare fraud will be investigated, prosecuted, and arrested by the OIG.”
TennCare fraud is a Class E felony carrying a sentence of up to two years in prison. District Attorney General Steven Bebb will be prosecuting this case.
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, over 1,600 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 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."