As Women’s History Month draws close, Ellsworth is proud to highlight an inspiring leader who embodies strength, service, and cultural connection: Dr. Elise M. Pletnikoff, Chief Medical Officer of the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) in Alaska.
Born and raised on Kodiak Island, Dr. Pletnikoff (Sun’aq Tribe of Kodiak) is more than a family medicine doctor—she is a mentor, a community leader, and a guiding light for the next generation of Indigenous healthcare professionals.
A Local Hero Making a Lasting Impact
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Pletnikoff has become a familiar and trusted face at Providence Kodiak Island Medical Center and across the tribal health system. She began her career as one of only two Indigenous students in her medical school cohort—and now, she leads as the only Native physician among more than 20 doctors in Kodiak.
Her work is deeply rooted in the Kodiak community, where she treats families she’s known for years.
“I’ve delivered their babies. I ask, ‘How’s your mom?’ before I ask why they came in. That connection makes all the difference.”
Mentorship That Matters
Representation in medicine doesn’t just improve care—it inspires futures. Dr. Pletnikoff didn’t have Native mentors in medical school, so she’s become one herself. She now works with medical education programs like the WWAMI School of Medical Education to encourage and support Indigenous students entering the field.
This summer, she mentored Alaska Native medical students during their clinical rotations. Her presence and guidance help students feel seen and affirmed in their identities.
“Seeing Dr. Pletnikoff in action reminded me that I can bring who I am and where I come from into this space,” said Audrey Juliussen (Athabascan/Unangax̂), a student who trained with her. Read more at kodiakdailymirror.com
Changing the Culture of Care
Western medicine is evolving—and Indigenous women like Dr. Pletnikoff are leading the way. By incorporating traditional values, community-based practices, and compassionate conversations into every patient interaction, she brings humanity back into the healthcare system.
She doesn’t just treat symptoms—she listens to stories, honors traditions, and connects with her patients as relatives, neighbors, and equals.
“A young Native female carries just as much intelligence and belonging in healthcare as any other physician,” Dr. Pletnikoff says. “That’s something I never saw growing up, but I live it now.”
Building the Future of Native Healthcare
Dr. Pletnikoff’s work doesn’t stop at the clinic. She partners with institutions like the University of Washington and Oregon Health Science University to train both Native and non-Native students on how to respectfully serve Indigenous communities.
Through early outreach, community visits, and storytelling, she’s helping young people imagine a future in medicine—and she’s helping reshape what it means to be a healer.
Why Her Story Matters to Us
At Ellsworth, we believe in the power of representation. We know that when Indigenous people see someone like Dr. Pletnikoff in the doctor’s chair, it opens hearts, builds trust, and leads to better care.
We’re honored to highlight her work—and to continue placing Indigenous healthcare professionals in positions where they can thrive and uplift their communities.
Join Us in Celebrating Women’s History Month
Let’s honor women like Dr. Elise Pletnikoff who are lighting the path forward. Their presence in medicine isn’t just groundbreaking—it’s transformational.
About Ellsworth LLC
Ellsworth is a Native-owned healthcare staffing company that places registered nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals in tribal communities across the U.S. With a deep commitment to tradition, trust, and community-first care, we’re helping to build the future of Indigenous healthcare—one placement at a time.
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