HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Brian A. Gallagher, R.Ph., J.D., is the new director of pharmacy services with Marshall Health for the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and the Marshall University School of Pharmacy. He has a joint faculty appointment in both schools.

Gallagher, a West Virginia native, most recently served as senior vice president of government affairs for the American Pharmacists Association in Washington, D.C. 

“Brian will be an incredible asset to Marshall University’s health sciences programs,” said Dr. Kevin Yingling, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “His vast experience in government affairs, health care academics and pharmacy administration will aid Marshall as we move our programs forward.”

School of Medicine Dean Dr. Joseph I. Shapiro said Gallagher’s knowledge of the medical and pharmacy industries allows Marshall to expand in new areas.

“As Marshall begins to build on a collaborative system within its health sciences programs, individuals with diverse skills will be required to help design and create our initiatives,” Shapiro said. “Brian Gallagher has the expertise we need and we are thrilled to have him as part of our team.” 

In addition to his position with American Pharmacists Association, Gallagher has held a wide variety of posts, including vice president for regulatory compliance for Rite Aid, vice president of risk management and governance for NDCHealth, general counsel for TechRx, director of pharmacy regulatory affairs for the National Association of Chain Drug Stores and general counsel for WVU Hospitals. 

Gallagher served for eight years in the West Virginia House of Delegates, where he was chairman of both the Banking and Insurance and Legislative Rule Making Review Committees. He authored a wide variety of statutes, including the Pharmacy Practice Act. 

“Brian’s responsibilities with Marshall Health will evolve as our health care system continues to change under the Affordable Care Act,”  said Beth Hammers, executive director of Marshall Health. “His background in the legislature, law and pharmacy gives him a unique perspective that is highly beneficial to our organization.”

“I am delighted to join the Marshall Health team and to be a part of the exciting initiatives they have in the works to improve the health of my fellow West Virginians,” Gallagher said. “I am really happy to be back home in the Mountain State.”

Gallagher graduated from West Virginia University in 1981 with a B.S. in pharmacy and received his law degree from Wake Forest University in 1984. He is admitted to the West Virginia, Georgia and Pennsylvania bars and is licensed to practice pharmacy in West Virginia. 

Gallagher began his duties with Marshall Health March 29.

Date Posted: Wednesday, May 22, 2013