Meet Dr. Zhu
Welcoming patients at our Central Park, Denver and Lakewood locations starting October 7, 2026
Languages Spoken: Mandarin
I’m Dr. Catherine Zhu, a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in medical retina and uveitis. I care for patients with conditions including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, retinal vascular disease, macular disorders, and uveitis.
My goal is to protect your vision while making sure you understand what is happening with your eyes and feel confident in your care. Retinal conditions can be overwhelming, particularly when they require ongoing treatment. I want my patients to know that they are not alone in navigating their care.
My Approach to Patient Care
I believe understanding your diagnosis shouldn’t require a medical degree. I take the time to explain what I see, what it means for your vision and independence, and what treatment options are available in clear, understandable language. I want my patients to feel comfortable asking questions, whether it’s their first question or one they’ve asked before.
My approach to patient care was shaped in part by watching my grandparents navigate the healthcare system. I saw how unfamiliar medical terminology and complicated appointments could leave patients feeling uncertain about what came next. That experience has stayed with me and reminds me to listen carefully, communicate clearly, and make sure my patients leave their visits feeling informed and supported.
I was drawn to medicine because it combines science, problem-solving, and human connection. Retina felt like a natural fit because it requires careful attention to detail while allowing me to build long-term relationships with patients. Many retinal conditions require ongoing care, and I value getting to know my patients and being there for them throughout their treatment journey.
Education & Training
I earned my medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine and completed residency training in Internal Medicine and Ophthalmology at Boston Medical Center, where I was honored to serve as Chief Resident in Ophthalmology. I then completed advanced fellowship training in Medical Retina at Emory Eye Center in Atlanta, where I gained specialized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of complex retinal and inflammatory eye conditions, also known as uveitis.
My training in both internal medicine and ophthalmology gives me a broad perspective on the connection between eye health and overall health. This is particularly valuable when caring for patients with conditions such as diabetes, retinal artery and vein occlusions, vascular disease, and autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.
Teaching & Community
Teaching and service are important parts of my career. During my training, I participated in community vision-screening programs and provided ophthalmic care in Lesotho, Africa, through the Lesotho–Boston Health Alliance. These experiences strengthened my appreciation for the importance of access to quality eye care and serving patients from diverse backgrounds.
I also enjoy teaching and mentoring medical students and residents and believe that continuing to learn is an essential part of being a good physician.
Life Outside Medicine
After several years of training in Boston and Atlanta, I’m excited to call Colorado home. Outside of medicine, I enjoy exploring Colorado with my partner and our cat, Nomi, discovering new restaurants and music, traveling, and photography. I also speak conversational Mandarin and am working toward becoming more fluent in Mandarin and Spanish.
I look forward to getting to know you and helping you protect your vision for years to come.
Undergraduate
- University of Michigan, College of LSA, Ann Arbor, MI, 2021
• Bachelor of Science
• Majors: Life Science Informatics; Biomolecular Science; Minor: Applied Statistics
Medical School
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 2015
• Doctor of Medicine
- University of Michigan, College of LSA, Ann Arbor, MI, 2021
