This study explores the prevalence of moral injury among Alaskan clinicians through the lens of moral stress and moral distress. Alaskan clinicians face challenges to their professional resilience stemming from conflicts between duties and values, as well as structural constraints that limit their ability to care for patients. Moral stress and distress lead to psychological distress, poor patient outcomes, and increased burnout risk. This study seeks to answer whether: (1) Newer Alaska clinicians face greater moral stress than experienced clinicians; (2) Rural Alaska clinicians experience higher rates of moral stress than urban clinicians; and (3) Addressing ethical challenges from structural impediments in Alaska's healthcare system can lead to greater professional satisfaction and resilience. The research will be conducted in three stages: a literature review and semi-structured qualitative interviews (n=12-20 physicians) involving behavior-choice questions guided by Icek Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior. Third stage: Results will be coded using thematic analysis to identify the ethical challenges clinicians face and factors that would improve resilience. This first-of-its-kind study will map the phenomenon in Alaska and offer insights into professional resilience among Alaska clinicians. Findings will inform the development of resources and lay the groundwork for broader research among clinicians.
