February Doctor of the Month: Dr. Allison Umfress

When and why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology?

I was lucky to have been exposed to ophthalmology as an undergraduate student working in a lab at UT Hamilton over the summer. I became interested in the connection between neuroscience and ophthalmology, the vast opportunities for basic and clinical research, and the delicate surgical procedures. I loved seeing the huge impact you could make on a patient’s life by helping with their vision and I could see how much patients appreciated my mentor’s expertise.  I aspired to one day make a difference like that myself. 

Where do you practice?

I am a pediatric ophthalmologist at Vanderbilt – I see patients on the main campus and in Murfreesboro.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career so far, and what was a bright spot?

The biggest challenges I regularly face are the social and financial issues that affect my patients and their access to care- I work every day provide the highest quality care possible to children whose families often have limited resources. 

The bright spots are when I see a child come back and they have improved from one of our interventions, whether its glasses or surgery, and I know that their vision has been affected for the rest of their lifetime. Taking care of children can be a challenge (especially when they need eyedrops), but one happy child makes up for all the crying and screaming. 

How do you spend your time away from work?

I try to spend as much time as possible outdoors, hiking and enjoying the many beautiful state parks we have in middle Tennessee with my husband and our Australian Shepherd. 

Quick hits

Coffee or tea? Coffee 

Favorite music/band/singer? I like almost everything but usually listening to Jason Isbell, John Mayer, Taylor Swift 

Cats or dogs? Dogs 

Kindle/book/audiobook?  Real books 

Favorite show (all-time or right now)? Currently enjoying/crying along to This Is Us 

Beach or mountains? Beach 

Comfort food? Pasta 

Follow her on Twitter: @alittleumf