Employee Profile: Melissa C. Tucker

A Dedicated Advocate for Public Service and Whistleblower Protection

Whistleblowers are vital to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG), playing a pivotal role in fighting health care fraud and ensuring integrity in health programs. Their courage to speak out protects public trust and the effective use of government resources.

Melissa C. Tucker, appointed as the HHS Whistleblower Protection Coordinator in March 2024, exemplifies this commitment. After joining the OIG in 2018 as an attorney advisor in the Office of Congressional Affairs, Melissa transferred to the Office of Counsel to the Inspector General (OCIG) in 2019. There, she advanced from associate counsel to senior counsel. Melissa attributes much of her leadership development to the influential leaders she has worked with throughout her career.

Over her distinguished two-decade legal career, Melissa has served in various government roles. She began as an attorney for the City of Providence, Rhode Island, and later worked in Washington, D.C., for the District of Columbia Council and the Mayor’s Office. Reflecting on her career, Melissa says, “What I love most about government service is the privilege of working with colleagues who are genuinely dedicated to the greater good and committed to serving our country.”

Melissa finds great satisfaction in her position, particularly in providing whistleblower training to HHS employees, grantees, and contractors. “My favorite part of the job is educating employees about the critical part whistleblowers play in combating fraud, waste, and abuse. It’s rewarding to advise them on their rights and protections against retaliation.”

By assisting those who come forward with information about misconduct, the whistleblower protection coordinator helps to ensure that concerns are addressed, and that the integrity of HHS programs is upheld. Melissa highlights two notable reports that were the result of employees bringing forward concerns related to HHS programs:

• Operational Challenges Within ORR and the ORR Emergency Intake Site at Fort Bliss Hindered Case Management for Children (OEI-07-21-00251)
  This report explores operational difficulties at the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and the Fort Bliss emergency intake site, revealing how these challenges adversely affected the care and management of children under ORR’s jurisdiction.
• During the Initial COVID-19 Response, HHS Personnel Who Interacted With Potentially Infected Passengers Had Limited Protections (OEI-04-20-00360)
  This case focuses on the inadequate protective measures for HHS personnel who interacted with potentially infected passengers during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting insufficient safety protocols and protective equipment.

These are examples of how whistleblowers are integral to OIG’s efforts to identify challenges in HHS programs and offer recommendations.

In addition, whistleblower reports are crucial for initiating investigations that lead to enforcement actions and recovery of misappropriated funds. By exposing fraudulent practices, they help protect taxpayer dollars and enhance transparency and accountability in the health care sector.

When asked what advice she would give the next generation of potential federal employees, Melissa said, “Be open to taking on new assignments and exploring different areas of work. My career has been a constant evolution, and I’ve loved every part of it. From land use attorney to legislative counsel to whistleblower protection, every role has been fulfilling.”

When she is not offering legal counsel or championing HHS-OIG’s Whistleblower Protection program, Melissa is passionate about researching her family history. What began as a simple family tree project became an extensive genealogy effort with 650 names, revealing lost branches and new cousins. Melissa also practices yoga and Pilates and enjoys cooking, particularly pasta dishes.

Melissa’s journey in government service reflects her dedication, adaptability, and passion for making a difference. Her story serves as an inspiration and highlights the vital role of public service.

Whistleblowing demonstrates courage and integrity that transcends personal and professional challenges. Coming forward to expose misconduct has far-reaching implications for both taxpayers and the individuals relying on federal health care programs. These programs play a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, whose lives are significantly influenced by the integrity and effectiveness of these services. By reporting unethical practices or misconduct, whistleblowers contribute to ensuring the appropriate use of resources and the delivery of these essential services, ultimately safeguarding the welfare of those who depend on them.

To learn more about the HHS Whistleblower Protection Coordinator, visit https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/whistleblower/.