Dr Ali received her medical training in Baghdad and worked in Iraq as a medical practitioner in hospitals and general practice before migrating to New Zealand in 1996. After completion of Public Health postgraduate qualifications Dr Ali joined the Department of Public Health and General Practice at the Christchurch School of Medicine in 2002 as a researcher in secondary health research. At New Zealand Health Technology Assessment (NZHTA) Dr Ali prepared Health-related systematic literature reviews and technical briefs for the Ministry of Health. During this time Dr Ali researched the efficacy and safety of complementary and alternative medicine for another Ministry of Health contract. Further experience with systematic reviews, evaluation of diagnostic test accuracy and evidence-based review was conducted at the Clinical Decision Support Unit (CDSU) where evidence-based information was supplied to CDHB clinicians and managers. Dr Ali joined HSAC healthsac.net in July 2007 to continue health technology assessment research for the Ministry of Health.
Dr Ali’s main research interests are secondary research in epidemiology as well as evidence-based literature reviews. She has worked on various reviews as well as on preparing referral guidelines, clinical pathway and algorithm for primary care. Other previous research interests include issues around women’s health and in particular risk factors for breast cancer. Particular interest in the past was on disease prevention in children and in contributing to implementing the vaccination programme for preschool children in Iraq. Dr Ali is a member of the Public Health Association of New Zealand.