What does an anesthesiologist do? – Tasks and work environment
An anesthesiologist is responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. Their tasks include assessing the patient's medical condition, planning and administering anesthesia, and continuously monitoring vital functions during surgery. Anesthesiologists work closely with other specialists, operating room nurses, and assistant nurses in an advanced technical environment, often in hospital operating rooms, intensive care units, and emergency departments. The profession involves high responsibility, quick decision-making, and working with life-critical interventions where precision and teamwork are essential.
Salary development over time
The salary of anesthesiologists has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary amounts to 93 600 SEK, representing a total increase of nearly 8.3% over three years. This salary development reflects the high demand for specialist doctors in anesthesia, where increased requirements for competence and a growing need for qualified staff drive up salary levels. A shortage of experienced anesthesiologists and ongoing technological advancements in healthcare have also contributed to faster salary growth compared to many other specialists.
Anesthesiologist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (men), 91,200 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (men), 101,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 563 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salary (92 900 SEK vs. 94 300 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable
Anesthesiologists are often involved in emergency situations where quick and accurate decisions can be life-saving. Besides surgery, they are also responsible for pain management and advanced intensive care, making the profession broad and technically demanding.
Education and qualifications
To work as an anesthesiologist, extensive education and clinical experience are required. The basic education includes medical school, followed by internship (AT) and specialist training (ST) in anesthesia and intensive care. High medical competence, practical skills, and certified specialist credentials are necessary for independent practice as an anesthesiologist.
- Medical program: 6 years (360 ECTS) at university
- Internship (AT): Approximately 1.5–2 years
- Specialist training (ST) in anesthesia: About 5 years
- Licensing: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved internship
- Specialist certificate: Required for independent work as an anesthesiologist
Common benefits and compensations
Anesthesiologists are often offered competitive benefits beyond the base salary, such as extra compensation for on-call and standby duties, generous vacation policies, pension contributions, and opportunities for professional development. Access to advanced technical equipment, wellness allowances, and ongoing education are also common in the profession.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an anesthesiologist is relatively low due to the high demand for specialists in the field. However, challenges include high requirements for medical competence, continuous education, and often a stressful work environment that requires high presence during emergency situations. Recruitment difficulties persist due to a shortage of qualified candidates, while workload can be high, demanding flexibility and availability. The work also involves responsibility for patient safety and managing complex medical conditions under time pressure.
Tips for aspiring anesthesiologists
To succeed as an anesthesiologist, it is beneficial to have an analytical mindset and the ability to make well-founded decisions quickly, especially in pressured situations. Precision and attention to detail are crucial, as small mistakes can have significant consequences. Developing good communication skills facilitates collaboration with colleagues and patients. High stress tolerance and the ability to remain calm in emergencies are important traits that contribute to patient safety and work quality. Additionally, early experience in surgical and intensive care environments, along with continuous education to stay updated on new medical techniques and treatments, are recommended. Flexibility and interest in interdisciplinary collaboration also provide good prospects for a successful career as an anesthesiologist.
Key facts about Anesthesiologists
- Education level: Medical license + specialist training (approximately 12 years total)
- Work environment: Hospitals, operating rooms, intensive care units
- Working hours: Shift work and on-call duties are common
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment, increasing need according to forecasts
- Number of job openings: 375 (within the profession)
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an anesthesiologist, there are opportunities to specialize further in areas such as pediatric anesthesia, intensive care, or pain management. Experienced anesthesiologists can also advance to leadership roles such as medical director, department head, or educator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job prospects are very good, and demand is expected to grow over the next five years. Simultaneously, recruitment challenges and high workload mean that competent anesthesiologists will continue to be highly sought after in the job market.
Frequently asked questions about Anesthesiologists
- What is the salary of an Anesthesiologist?
- The average salary is 93 600 SEK per month.
- How long is the training to become an anesthesiologist?
- About 12 years, including medical school, internship (AT), and specialist training (ST).
- What are the duties of an anesthesiologist?
- Administering anesthesia, monitoring, and caring for patients in connection with surgeries and intensive care.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 98% of what men do within the profession.
- What is the job market like for anesthesiologists?
- The demand is high and the outlook indicates increasing needs.
- What benefits are common for anesthesiologists?
- Extra compensation for on-call duties, further education, generous vacation policies, and wellness allowances.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for anesthesiologists?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK (men), 101,500 SEK (women). The lowest salary is 84,600 SEK (men), 91,200 SEK (women).
