Pediatric surgeon salary

Occupational Profile: Pediatric Surgeon

Pediatric surgeons are specialist physicians who perform surgical procedures on children, from newborns to adolescents. This professional group handles a variety of medical conditions that may require surgery, including congenital malformations, tumors, and acute injuries. The work requires not only medical expertise but also the ability to interact with young patients and their families in stressful circumstances.

Education and Qualifications

Becoming a pediatric surgeon requires a long and demanding educational path. After completing a basic medical degree, which in Sweden involves 5.5 years at the medical faculty followed by 18-24 months of internship (AT), the aspiring pediatric surgeon must undergo specialist training in surgery. Subsequently, further subspecialization in pediatric surgery is required, which can take several years. In total, the educational journey can span 12-15 years after high school.

Salary Statistics

The average salary for a pediatric surgeon in Sweden is 86 400 SEK per month. There is a slight gender pay gap in the profession, with men earning an average of 86 900 SEK and women 85 900 SEK, meaning that women earn 99% of what men do. The salary has increased from 83 200 SEK since the last measurement, indicating a positive salary development for the profession.

Job Market and Conditions

Securing a position as a pediatric surgeon requires not only relevant education but also experience in surgical procedures and pediatric medicine. The demand for pediatric surgeons varies depending on geographic location and demographic factors, but generally, specialist physicians in pediatric surgery are sought after in the job market. The future outlook appears stable, given the constant need for medical expertise for children.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Pediatric surgeons often work under stressful conditions, especially during emergency surgeries. The work environment is typically within hospital surgical departments or specialized children's hospitals. Benefits for pediatric surgeons may include continuous professional development, often paid for by the employer. Other common benefits may include conference allowances, a company-paid mobile phone, and sometimes a company car, depending on the workplace's policy and employment agreement.

Considerations for Aspiring Pediatric Surgeons

For those considering a career as a pediatric surgeon, it is important to be aware of the emotional and psychological challenges that the profession entails. Working with critically ill children and their families requires not only technical skill but also significant empathy and resilience to stress. It is also essential to have a strong support system and good coping strategies to handle the often demanding workdays.