Episode #55: February 2025 – Pharmacists in Elected Office

On this episode of IPA’s What, Why & How podcast, Kate Gainer welcomes Iowa pharmacist and State Representative Brett Barker, PharmD, to discuss his public service leading up to the Iowa Legislature, why it’s important for pharmacists to serve in elected office, and how pharmacy professionals can get involved at the local, state or national level. Representative Brett Barker serves the people of Story and Marshall Counties in District 51. Rep. Barker serves as Vice Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and on the Commerce, Economic Growth and Technology, and Natural Resources Standing Committees. Representative Barker graduated from the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy in 2008 and began his career as the Pharmacy Manager of NuCara Pharmacy in Nevada, Iowa. He currently serves as Vice President of Operations for NuCara Management Group. Rep. Barker was appointed to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy in 2017 by Governor Terry Branstad. In 2010, Rep. Barker joined the Nevada City Council before being elected Mayor in 2017. Rep. Barker, his wife, Tracy, and their five children continue to call Nevada home. Connect with us on LinkedIn: Brett Barker Kate Gainer Iowa Pharmacy Association