Blount Co. Woman to Repay State $60,000 for TennCare Fraud

Thursday, September 23, 2021 | 02:30pm
Kendall Hall

NASHVILLE –  A Blount County woman is ordered to repay the state more than $60,094.00 after court proceedings in a TennCare fraud case against her.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) today announced that Kendall Hall, age 50, was ordered to make restitution to TennCare after her conviction in Blount county. Hall was charged in July of 2020 with TennCare fraud for failing to report her marital status and household income to the state, which would have made her and her family ineligible for TennCare. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ashley Salem of Blount County.

“The hard work and due diligence of the Blount County District Attorney General’s Office should not go unnoticed,” Inspector General Kim Harmon said. “OIG will continue these great relationships and intends to preserve the integrity of TennCare benefits, so that those truly deserving of and eligible for TennCare have the best resources.”

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million ordered in restitution to TennCare.  This has helped lead to a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to the latest figures. To date, 3,137 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

The OIG, which is separate from TennCare, began full operation in February 2005 and has investigated over 5,760 criminal cases leading to more than $10.8 million being repaid to TennCare, with a total estimated cost avoidance of more than $163.6 million for TennCare, according to latest figures. The TennCare budget is comprised of both federal and state dollars, 65% and 35% respectively. To date, 3,137 people have been charged with TennCare fraud.

To access the OIG most wanted list, visit https://www.tn.gov/finance/fa-oig/fa-oig-most-wanted.html. Anyone with information about a wanted subject is urged to use the contact information on the page.

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 or by logging on to www.tn.gov/oig/ and following the prompts that read “Report TennCare fraud.”