Emily Hannum’s TennCare Fraud Case: A Cautionary Tale

Courtroom illustration depicting a healthcare fraud case

News Summary

Emily Hannum, a former Knoxville resident, was convicted of TennCare fraud after illegally receiving benefits by falsely claiming custody of her child. Her actions led to a hefty restitution and supervised probation, highlighting the importance of integrity in accessing healthcare assistance. This case serves as a reminder of the severe repercussions of defrauding programs designed for those in need.

Emily Hannum’s TennCare Fraud Case: A Cautionary Tale for Tennesseans

Knoxville residents are no strangers to the importance of healthcare and the various assistance programs designed to help those in need. However, a recent conviction has shed light on the darker side of these programs, reminding us all how important it is to adhere to the rules and regulations. Emily Hannum, a former resident of Knoxville, has found herself on the wrong side of the law after she was convicted of theft of services related to TennCare benefits.

How the Fraud Unfolded

Hannum, now 30 years old and residing in Georgia, falsely claimed custody of her child and provided misleading information about her residency in Tennessee to obtain TennCare benefits. Her deceptive actions allowed her to illegally receive benefits over an extended period. It’s a classic case of someone attempting to game the system, but unfortunately, the consequences of such actions can be severe.

Had Hannum been forthright about her living situation and custody status, it’s likely that she would not have qualified for the much-needed assistance that TennCare provides for eligible residents. The system is designed to support those who truly need it, and any fraudulent claims undermine this essential safety net.

Legal Repercussions

As a result of her actions, Hannum has been sentenced to six years of supervised probation by the Tennessee Department of Correction. In addition to her probation, she has also been ordered to repay a hefty sum of $19,453.81 in TennCare restitution. On top of that, she will incur an additional 5% in administrative fees, making her total repayment even steeper. This financial burden serves as a reminder that dishonest behavior can come at a high cost.

The Bigger Picture

Knox County District Attorney General Charme P. Allen took charge of prosecuting this case, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that TennCare benefits are safeguarded for those who truly qualify. Inspector General Chad D. Holman also spoke out about the gravity of this offense, noting that Hannum’s actions resulted in a loss of approximately $20,000 to Tennessee taxpayers. This particular case illustrates a broader issue—fraudulent claims not only affect the individuals involved but also put a strain on resources meant for eligible residents.

Taking Action Against Fraud

Fortunately, TennCare and its monitoring agency, the Office of Inspector General (OIG), take fraud very seriously. TennCare benefits are specifically designated for Tennessee residents, and there are systems in place to detect and monitor any suspicious claims. This vigilance is essential for maintaining the integrity of the program.

For Tennesseans who suspect fraud, there are avenues available to report such activity. The OIG operates a Cash for Tips Program, which provides cash rewards for tips that lead to convictions. If you have any concerns, you can report suspicious claims by calling 1-800-433-3982, emailing Tenncare.Fraud@tn.gov, or even visiting the OIG website for more information.

A Reminder to All

Hannum’s case serves as a cautionary tale for all of us. It’s a clear illustration of how vital integrity is, not just for individuals, but for the community at large. The resources provided by programs like TennCare are essential for many families and individuals in Tennessee. Each one of us plays a part in ensuring these benefits are used responsibly and legitimately.

As Knoxville continues to navigate the complexities of healthcare access, let this case be a reminder: honesty is always the best policy, and looking out for one another ultimately strengthens our community.