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Contractor for county medical transport apologizes for billing disruption; commissioners told contract extension will be voted next month
Summary
Tammy Barrett, a representative for TK Health, told Monroe County commissioners on July 20 that delayed invoices came from the prior vendor, apologized for the disruption and said TK Health will return next month with contract documents to bridge service through Dec. 1.
Tammy Barrett, a representative for TK Health (formerly associated with Pass Access Healthcare), addressed the Monroe County Commission during the July 20 meeting to explain delayed medical-billing invoices and to offer assurances about ongoing service and next steps.
Barrett said the billing backlog originated with the previous contractor and that TK Health assumed service in August of the prior year. She apologized for the budgeting disruption and said the current company is working to improve communications and to avoid future delays.
On the substance of the billing issue, Barrett and commission discussion identified three points: (1) the county received invoices that were prepared under the prior contractor, not TK Health; (2) TK Health is willing to request refunds of administrative fees the county paid on the disputed invoices — Barrett estimated that amount as in the “20 to $30,000” range; and (3) the contract under discussion will be brought back for a formal vote next month so the county does not lapse coverage before a December 1 contract deadline. Barrett said the immediate agreement before the commission was intended only to bridge operations to Dec. 1 and that any penalty clauses for late billing were not yet finalized.
Why it matters: The contractor provides services that resulted in county invoices; delayed or unclear billing affected the county finance process and prompted direct questions from commissioners about accountability and remedies.
Discussion versus decision: Commissioners heard the presentation and asked questions; no final contract award or formal amendment occurred during the July 20 meeting. Barrett said the county could pursue reimbursement of administrative fees; she also said TK Health will work with county staff on clearer billing timelines and internal processes. The commission did not take a binding vote on the substantive contract at this meeting and directed staff to return with contract documents and options for penalties or remedies.
Supporting details: Barrett said she and colleagues have worked in the county since late 2023 and that TK Health took over operations from Pass Access Healthcare in August (year stated in the comment). Barrett said the company was prepared to discuss penalties for 90-day late invoices but was not prepared to finalize those penalty terms at the meeting. Barrett told commissioners she is committed to saving the county money and improving communication.
Next steps: The commission indicated it will consider the contract at a future meeting (next month) and that staff and the vendor will continue to negotiate administrative remedies and timelines for billing and reimbursements.
