Wellpath and Pitt County Detention Center reach extended agreement

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — Wellpath began providing medical services to the Pitt County Detention Center in July of 2020.

The company showed signs of seeking an increase of 22 percent compared to the annual 5 percent increase allowed in the contract. With ongoing negotiations, Sheriff Paula Dance prepared for a Request for Proposals (RFP), if needed.

“In case the negotiations did not work out, then we prepared ourselves to do an RFP on those medical contracts that would be able to meet our needs at the detention center, would have given them an opportunity to make a proposal for services,” Sheriff Dance said.

Pitt County and Wellpath eventually reached an agreement to maintain the same contract between both parties until it runs out in 2025. The detention center has a medically-assisted treatment program that includes outside care and medical staff. Sheriff Dance said the detention center has all its needs met.

“It’s my responsibility to take care of them and make sure that the medical care and the needs are met of people who are in our detention center,” Sheriff Dance said.

When involved in negotiations, Sheriff Dance said she makes sure she weighs every option with taxpayers ensured of a reasonable deal.

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