Trent Howard, DO

About Trent Howard, DO

Trent Howard, DO, joined The Iowa Clinic Cardiothoracic Surgery department in 2024. Growing up in the small town of Milford, Kentucky, Dr. Howard proudly describes himself as a “farm kid,” spending much of his early life raising tobacco and cattle while supporting his family. His thick Southern accent is a reminder of his roots, and his journey to becoming a surgeon took an unconventional path. Before medical school, he worked for over a decade as a firefighter and paramedic, earning a degree in Agricultural Economics along the way. It was his wife’s encouragement that led him to pursue medicine, a career he hadn’t originally considered.

Dr. Howard’s decision to specialize in cardiothoracic surgery was driven by personal loss, after losing both of his parents to lung cancer and heart disease. A transformative experience during medical school in Tennessee, where he worked alongside a cardiothoracic surgeon, solidified his passion for the field. He later completed his general surgery training in Iowa, further deepening his connection to the state. Before moving to Iowa, Dr. Howard spent nearly seven years practicing as a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon in Alabama. Now, he looks forward to serving the people of central Iowa, where he can be closer to his family, who also live in the area. For Dr. Howard, the most rewarding part of his career is the connections he forms with patients and their families outside the operating room.

In his free time, Dr. Howard enjoys working on the farm, hunting, fishing, and flying as a private pilot. He cherishes time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, appreciating the balance between his rewarding career and family life.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: The CT Surgery department is a collaboration between UnityPoint and The Iowa Clinic. Because of this, standard insurance co-pays for The Iowa Clinic may not apply, and will vary depending on your insurance plan. Patients wishing to see Dr. Howard are encouraged to reach out to your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.