Mortgage and Insurance

Two weeks ago I discovered a medical account I had payment arrangements on went to collections.  I called the collection agency and they said I had until 12/23 before it would hit my credit.  They said I could try to clear it up with the OC or set up payment arrangements with them.  I told them I would try to contact the OC and get back to them before 12/23.  On 12/02, it hit my credit.  Turns out they reported it on 11/29.  I called them, of course furious, that I had been given misinformation that was destroying my otherwise flawless credit.  They agreed to a PFD.  I demanded it in writing, but they would only email the PFD agreement.  They sent it through a secured email server called PGP Universal Secured Message as a PDF style document on letterhead.  I assume this was due to confidentiality.  They refused to fax.  They would mail it, but I was afraid to wait on that, never receive, and lose the offer.  They also sent me a PIF letter through the same system.  Of course, I have printed both.  I am just concerned about the agreement being sent via email.  They said it would take a few weeks to disappear from my credit.  I am now just living on a prayer hoping these people are honest.  They are located within an hour of where I live.  Do you think it’s necessary for me to drive there and ask the person who made the agreement to sign it as well?  The emails are not signed, and no person’s name is specified.  It was just “signed” by the company.  But, it was cc’d to the person who made the agreement and I do know her name.  Does this all sound kosher?  I am really nervous and devastated because this is the ONLY negative thing on my credit.  Please, please advise me if there are any other further steps I should take.