Doctors and Specialists

Emma-Catherine Ali, O.D.

Optometrist

Contact

Call 540-855-5100 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali

Smith Mountain Lake

Education

Dr. Emma-Catherine Ali is an optometrist who focuses on comprehensive eye exams including contact lenses, ocular disease diagnosis and management, low vision services and pediatric care. Dr. Ali received her undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University in Biology with a minor in Genetics in 2005. Dr. Ali completed her Doctor of Optometry at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Optometry in 2009. She has completed clinical training with externships at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Birmingham, AL and the Helen Keller school for the Deaf and Blind in Tuscaloosa, AL. Dr. Ali joined Vistar in 2013, but has been providing eyecare for patients in Southwest Virginia since 2009 in both private practice and at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Salem, VA.

Background

At one time, Dr. Emma Catherine Ali considered becoming a pediatrician. However, in college, her roommate was diagnosed with a rare vision-threatening corneal disease. That experience formed her decision to switch to Optometry. In addition, she volunteered with VOSH (Volunteers for Optometric Services to Humanity). VOSH provides eye care services to underprivileged areas in the US and abroad. Serving with them, she saw first-hand the importance of vision and quality eye care.

Dr. Ali provides primary eye care for the whole family.

“I believe in giving my patients a lot of quality one-on-one time during appointments. It’s important to really listen to them.”

Outside of Work Dr. Ali is married with two children and enjoys gardening, knitting, and traveling. Also as a former NC State mascot, she remains a die-hard Wolfpack fan.

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