Audiologist, medical

What does a medical audiologist do? – Tasks and work environment

A medical audiologist is a specialist physician who diagnoses, treats, and monitors patients with hearing impairments and balance disorders. Tasks include investigating hearing problems, interpreting audiological test results, prescribing hearing aids, and evaluating treatment outcomes. The role also involves collaboration with other professionals such as ENT doctors, speech therapists, and audiologists, as well as advising patients and relatives on rehabilitation and communication strategies. The work environment is usually clinical, performed at hospitals or specialist clinics, involving both direct patient contact and work with advanced medical equipment.

Salary development over time

Medical audiologists have experienced a clear positive salary trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 93 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% during the period, with a particularly strong rise between 2022 and 2023. The trend reflects an increased demand for specialist skills in healthcare, driven by demographic changes and technological advances in the field. Continued growth is expected, especially as the population ages and more seek advanced hearing care.

Medical audiologist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (male): 110,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (female): 101,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 84,600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 91,200 SEK/month
• Average hourly wage: 563 SEK
• Women earn: 98% of men's salary (92 900 SEK vs 94 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a medical audiologist requires specialist training within the medical profession, with a completed medical degree and licensing as fundamental. Subsequently, one must undertake specialist training in ENT (ear, nose, throat), with a focus on audiology and hearing rehabilitation. In addition to formal education, practical experience, clinical training, and continuous professional development are crucial to stay updated in the field.

• Medical degree: 5.5 years (basic education)
• Internship (AT): 1.5–2 years
• Specialist training (ST) in ENT: about 5 years
• Specialization in audiology: Included in ST or through further training
• Licensing: Required Swedish medical license
• Continuing education: Recommended regularly to follow new research

Common benefits and compensations

Medical audiologists are often offered a comprehensive benefits package, which may include occupational pension, generous vacation policies, professional development, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Many employers also provide compensation for on-call duties, paid further training, and conferences.

Competition and challenges

The job market for medical audiologists is characterized by high demand and recruitment difficulties. Despite good employment opportunities, there is a paradoxical situation where many positions remain unfilled, especially in rural areas or less populated regions. The profession requires ongoing professional development to keep up with new treatment methods and technologies, and workload can sometimes be high. The patient group is often complex, demanding both medical expertise and empathetic communication. Administrative responsibilities and collaboration with various stakeholders can also pose additional challenges.

Tips for aspiring medical audiologists

To succeed as a medical audiologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong desire to help others. Precision is crucial in diagnostics and treatment, so early practice in interpreting medical data and staying updated on research is recommended. Flexibility and teamwork skills facilitate work in interdisciplinary teams, while patience and good communication skills are essential when meeting patients of all ages. Actively seeking internships and participating in relevant training increases chances for a successful career. Building networks within the medical community and related professions is also valuable. Finally, those wishing to work in this field should be prepared to invest time in ongoing education and skill development.

Key facts about medical audiology

• Education level: Specialist physician (minimum 12 years including internship and specialist training)
• Work environment: Hospitals and specialist clinics
• Work type: Full-time, often daytime but some on-call work may occur
• Demand: Very high, especially in the public sector
• Job openings: 375 within the specialist physician group

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a medical audiologist, there may be opportunities to advance to senior physician or to oversee an audiology unit. Some choose to specialize further in areas such as pediatric or adult audiology, or to engage in research and teaching. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates very good employment prospects, with demand expected to increase further over five years. However, a paradox exists where recruitment difficulties are combined with some leaving the profession or working part-time. Overall, career prospects are very bright for those with the right skills and dedication.

Common questions about medical audiology

• What is the average salary for a medical audiologist?
  - The average salary is 93 600 SEK per month.
• How long does the education take to become a medical audiologist?
  - At least 12 years (medical degree, internship, and specialist training).
• Are there significant salary differences between genders?
  - Women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - Hospitals, university hospitals, and specialist clinics are most common.
• What are the future prospects for medical audiologists?
  - The outlook is very good with increasing demand according to the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and flexible working hours.
• How does the job market look regionally?
  - Regional differences exist, but demand is generally high across the country.