Franklin County Health Data
Franklin County, Iowa
Health Score
60/100
Average
Life Expectancy
75.9 yr
Uninsured Rate
7.7%
Health Statistics
Life Expectancy
75.9 yr
State avg 77.7 yr
National avg 77.5 yr
Uninsured Rate
7.7%
State avg 5.7%
National avg 9%
Primary Care Providers
10
per 100K population
National avg 82
Mental Health Providers
30
per 100K population
National avg 350
Data Story
About Health in Franklin County, Iowa
Life expectancy significantly lags national average
Franklin County residents live an average of 75.9 years, trailing the U.S. average of 78.9 years by a concerning 3 years. With 18% of adults reporting poor or fair health, the county faces substantial health challenges that are hitting lifespan directly. This gap suggests a need for urgent intervention in chronic disease prevention and healthcare access.
Lowest life expectancy in Iowa
Franklin County's 75.9-year life expectancy is nearly 2 years below Iowa's state average of 77.7 years, making it one of the state's worst performers. This dramatic shortfall reflects compounded health disadvantages—whether from aging demographics, economic hardship, or limited medical resources—that demand targeted state support.
Significantly behind all neighboring counties
Franklin County's 75.9-year life expectancy is the lowest in its region, roughly 1.5 years below its nearest neighbor (Fremont at 76.3 years). The 18% poor/fair health rate also ties for worst in the area, reinforcing that Franklin residents face compounded health burdens not seen equally across the region. These disparities suggest systemic barriers that warrant community-wide solutions.
Severe shortage of primary care providers
Franklin County has only 10 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than one-third the regional average—creating a major access bottleneck for preventive and routine care. An uninsured rate of 7.7% (35% higher than the state average) compounds this problem, leaving vulnerable residents unable to reach the few providers available. Mental health resources at 30 per 100K also fall well below peer counties.
Take action on health insurance today
Franklin County's 7.7% uninsured rate—the highest in the region—means many residents skip needed care due to cost fears. Contact the Iowa Department of Human Services or visit Healthcare.gov now to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or emergency coverage programs that can make care affordable and accessible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Data Sources
Health data sourced from the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.
Data is informational only. Not medical or health advice. Coverage varies by county and reporting year.