Ward doctor

What does a department doctor do? – Tasks and work environment

A department doctor primarily works in hospital wards, responsible for investigation, treatment, and follow-up of admitted patients. Tasks include medical assessments, medication prescriptions, performing minor procedures, and collaborating with other healthcare staff and relatives. The department doctor also supervises younger colleagues and participates in ward rounds, reports, and multidisciplinary meetings. The work environment is characterized by a high pace, great responsibility, and close contact with patients at various stages of care, often under pressure where quick decisions are required.

Salary development over time

The salary for department doctors has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and reached 93 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. The salary increase is partly explained by high demand for specialists, increased skill requirements, and greater pressure on the healthcare sector, where regions and employers compete for experienced doctors. Negotiations on working conditions and the availability of substitutes have also contributed to rising salary levels within the profession. The trend indicates continued strong salary growth, especially in regions with a significant shortage of specialist skills.

Department doctor salary – complete 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 rate (average): 563 SEK
• Gender difference: Women earn 98% of what men do (men 94 300 SEK, women 92 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary between regions, with higher compensation in areas with a particular shortage of specialists.

Education and qualifications

To work as a department doctor, you need a medical license and specialist competence within a relevant area. The educational path is long and includes university education and several years of practical service. After completing medical studies, there is a period of general internship (AT) and then specialist training (ST), meaning it often takes at least ten years from start of studies to becoming a fully qualified specialist.

• Medical education: 6 years at university (medical program)
• Internship (AT): approx. 18–24 months
• Specialist training (ST): 5 years within chosen specialty
• Medical license: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved AT
• Continuing education: Ongoing training and courses are required to stay updated

Common benefits and compensations

Department doctors often have access to benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and opportunities for professional development. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, on-call pay, and support for further training, making the profession attractive beyond just salary.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a department doctor is generally low due to high demand for specialists in healthcare. However, challenges include workload, high responsibility, and the need for continuous professional development. There is a shortage of department doctors in many regions, which can lead to high demands and pressured schedules. At the same time, the profession involves a complex balance of medical responsibility, leadership, and patient contact. The move towards multidisciplinary teams and digitalization also introduces new requirements for flexibility and collaboration.

Tips for aspiring department doctors

To succeed as a department doctor, it is good to combine analytical skills with empathy and stress resilience. Establishing good routines for self-study and ongoing education early on makes it easier to stay updated within your specialty. Good communication skills are essential, both in patient interactions and in teamwork. It is also wise to develop organizational skills, as the role often involves coordination and supervision. Being attentive and flexible facilitates navigating the fast-paced and evolving healthcare environment. Engagement in research or teaching can create more opportunities and provide extra motivation. Finally, a genuine interest in medical development and patient-centered work is necessary to thrive and grow in the profession.

Key facts about Department Doctors

• Education level: Medical degree + specialist training (about 11–12 years total)
• Work environment: Hospitals, wards, high pace
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in regions with shortages
• Typical work form: Full-time, often with on-call duties and standby
• Special skills: Medical diagnostics, treatment, and supervision

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a department doctor, opportunities open for further career development in clinical management, research, teaching, or specialized roles within healthcare. Many choose to deepen their expertise within their specialty, become senior consultants, or engage in development projects and medical committees. The prognosis according to the Employment Service shows very good employment opportunities and an expected increase in demand for specialists over the next five years. Despite some recruitment difficulties, especially in rural areas and smaller regions, there are a large number of vacant positions nationally – 375 according to the latest data. The job market for department doctors is therefore considered strong and stable moving forward.

Frequently asked questions about Department Doctors

• What does a department doctor earn?
  - The average salary is 93 600 SEK/month and the hourly rate is 563 SEK.
• How to become a department doctor?
  - By completing medical education, internship (AT), specialist training, and obtaining a license.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for department doctors?
  - The forecast shows great opportunities for employment and increased demand over the next five years.
• Which workplaces hire department doctors?
  - Mainly hospitals, but also private clinics and research institutions.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for department doctors?
  - Highest salary is 110,600 SEK/month (men), 101,500 SEK/month (women). Lowest salary is 84,600 SEK/month (men), 91,200 SEK/month (women).
• How does the region influence the salary?
  - Salaries vary between regions, with higher levels where there is a shortage of specialists.