Dr. Vicente Franco, MD – Family Physician | Miami, FL

Dr. Vicente Franco, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Miami, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice).

Dr. Vicente Franco is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (305) 262-9333 to inquire or schedule an appointment. His practice focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care.

Dr. Vicente Franco, MD is a family medicine physician in Miami, FL, serving patients of all ages. He is affiliated with medical facilities Doctors Hospital and South Miami Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Vicente Franco is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. He offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Vicente Franco is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of his patients and the community he serves.

Dr. Vicente Franco addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Onychomycosis: This is a fungal infection of the nail.
• Acute Tonsillitis: This involves inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
• Cough: Cough is a common symptom that can be caused by various conditions, and a physician will work to identify the underlying cause.
• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation of the sinuses, often caused by infection or allergies.
• Tension Headache: This is a common type of headache characterized by mild to moderate pain.
• Foot Infection: This can range from minor skin infections to more serious conditions requiring medical attention.
• Insomnia: This involves difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Arthritis: This is a general term for conditions causing joint pain and inflammation.
• Perimenopause: This is the transitional phase leading up to menopause.
• Herpes Zoster Without Complication: This is commonly known as shingles, a viral infection affecting the nerves.
• Hammer Toe: This is a deformity of the toe joint.
• Anxiety: This is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive worry and fear.
• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining.
• Radiculopathy: This involves nerve root compression, often causing pain and other neurological symptoms.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Vicente Franco addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Physician manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms you are experiencing, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Dr. Vicente Franco offers a range of services to meet his patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Wellness Examination: This comprehensive check-up helps maintain optimal health and identify potential issues early.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: This helps detect and manage STIs to protect sexual health.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This screening can assess an individual's risk for developing breast cancer.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This helps diagnose and treat various sleep problems for better rest and overall health.
• Health Screening: Regular screenings help detect health issues early for timely intervention.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This assessment helps address mental health concerns and develop a treatment plan.
• Cardiovascular Disease Counseling: This helps manage and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This test measures lipid levels to assess cardiovascular risk.
• Home Sleep Study: This test helps diagnose sleep disorders in the comfort of your home.
• Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This ensures that patients with complex needs receive coordinated care.
• Memory Evaluation: This helps assess cognitive function and address memory concerns.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: This helps address substance use concerns and provides support.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This helps identify and address potential spinal and posture problems.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This non-invasive test provides images of the heart to assess its structure and function.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Vicente Franco. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a specialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Family Physicians in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Dr. Vicente Franco is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. Whether it's managing common concerns or pursuing preventative wellness, he helps patients set and reach meaningful goals. The following examples illustrate how this collaborative approach with Dr. Vicente Franco can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective management, patients find their joint pain significantly reduced, allowing them to return to beloved activities like gardening or playing with grandchildren. This improved mobility and reduced discomfort leads to a greater sense of independence and improved quality of life.
• With effective management strategies, patients find their anxiety significantly reduced, leading to improved sleep, increased focus, and a renewed ability to participate in social activities and pursue personal goals. They experience a greater sense of calm and control in their daily lives.
• With the right care, patients often find relief from persistent coughs, allowing them to breathe easier and return to their normal activities, such as spending time with loved ones or returning to work.
• With proper treatment, patients experiencing foot infections often see a rapid reduction in pain and swelling, allowing them to walk comfortably and resume their favorite activities without limitations. They can return to enjoying everyday life, free from the discomfort and inconvenience of the infection.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Vicente Franco, can achieve positive health outcomes and resume meaningful activities. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

The practice is located in a convenient area of Miami, Florida, near many city attractions and public services. It's easily accessible via Miami's public transportation system. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Convenient patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Vicente Franco. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Vicente Franco or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Aetna
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care)
• Humana
• Midwest Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicaid

Important Note on Insurance Verification:

Insurance networks and accepted plans can change frequently and without prior notice. The list above, if provided, is for general guidance only and may not be completely up-to-date or cover all specific plans within a network. It is imperative that patients personally verify that Dr. Vicente Franco is currently an in-network provider for their specific insurance plan, and fully understand all coverage details (including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance requirements, and any need for referrals or pre-authorizations for services with Dr. Vicente Franco) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (305) 262-9333 when you call to schedule. While our staff can assist with general insurance questions, your insurance company is the definitive source for your coverage information. Understanding your benefits ahead of time helps prevent unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Please be aware that some services, such as certain preventative screenings not covered under your specific plan, administrative forms, or non-medically necessary procedures, may not be covered by insurance and could be your financial responsibility.

Dr. Vicente Franco may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• South Miami Hospital (South Miami, FL)
• Doctors Hospital (Coral Gables, FL)

He completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at St Elizabeth Hospital (graduated 1991), and Mercy Hospital and Medical Center (graduated 1988), and Luth General Hospital (graduated 1985), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Vicente Franco:

Are services from Dr. Vicente Franco typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

As a Family Physician in Florida, Dr. Vicente Franco likely accepts many health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is absolutely essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (305) 262-9333 *prior to* scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Vicente Franco is "in-network" for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits if applicable. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, non-medically necessary visits) may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Please ask our office about our policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Vicente Franco as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see Dr. Vicente Franco to establish care as your Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Vicente Franco will typically provide a referral after an assessment. Many insurance plans, particularly HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), *do require* a referral from your designated PCP (Dr. Vicente Franco, if so chosen) for specialist visits to be covered. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans may offer more flexibility for self-referral to specialists, but this might result in higher out-of-pocket costs if the specialist is out-of-network or if a referral would have secured better coverage. Always check your specific insurance plan's referral requirements.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until our clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Please check our clinic voicemail [(305) 262-9333] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

What happens if Dr. Vicente Franco determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Vicente Franco determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), he will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. In the US healthcare system, this often involves Dr. Vicente Franco's office sending a formal referral request, including your relevant medical information and reason for consult, to the specialist's office. Depending on your insurance plan (especially HMOs), a formal referral from Dr. Vicente Franco may be required by your insurer for the specialist visit to be covered or for you to receive in-network benefits. Our staff at the clinic will work to find an in-network specialist for you where possible and may assist with any necessary prior authorization process from your insurance. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly. The specialist's office will typically contact you directly to schedule an appointment once the referral (and any insurance authorization) is processed. Please follow up with our clinic if you encounter issues or haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe as advised by Dr. Vicente Franco.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Vicente Franco in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Vicente Franco focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

What exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

A Family Physician, often your Primary Care Physician (PCP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages u2013 from newborns to seniors. In the US healthcare system, they serve as your main point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like wellness visits, immunizations, health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and navigate the complexities of the US healthcare system.

Can Dr. Vicente Franco help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Vicente Franco plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. He is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Vicente Franco can provide an initial assessment (often using screening tools), offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications), and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT), or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care (like specific types of psychotherapy) is needed. Dr. Vicente Franco can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

Can you explain common health insurance terms like co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance?

Certainly! A co-pay (or copayment) is a fixed amount (e.g., $25 or $50) you pay for a covered healthcare service, like a doctor's visit or a prescription, at the time of service. Your insurance plan pays the rest of the allowed amount. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services *before* your insurance plan starts to pay its share (e.g., you might have a $1,000 annual deductible). Preventive services are often covered before meeting the deductible. Co-insurance is your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the allowed amount for the service, which you pay *after* you've met your deductible. For example, if the allowed amount is $100 and your co-insurance is 20%, you pay $20 and your insurer pays $80 (after deductible). These amounts and how they apply vary greatly by insurance plan. Dr. Vicente Franco recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

1884 S Red Rd
Miami FL 33155
Phone: (305) 262-9333

Dr. Vicente Franco, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1194814319

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Family Physicians like Dr. Vicente Franco are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your Family Physician about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners or specialists.