What does a physiologist assistant do? – tasks and work environment
A physiologist assistant primarily assists doctors and biomedical analysts during physiological examinations, often within clinical laboratories or specialist clinics. Tasks include patient preparation, handling medical technical equipment, and collecting and documenting measurement data from, for example, heart, lung, and vascular examinations. Physiologist assistants may also participate in physical capacity testing and perform basic analysis of collected data. The work environment is characterized by close patient contact, technical precision, and high demands for accuracy, often in collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Salary development over time
The salary for physiologist assistants has steadily increased over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,200 SEK per month, rising to 39 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 10.8% over three years. This positive trend can largely be explained by the increased demand for specialist competence and the general shortage of qualified personnel in biomedical laboratory professions. Salary development has also been influenced by the labor market’s need for technically skilled staff and higher educational requirements. The gender gap remains small but persists, with women earning 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
Physiologist assistant salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 41 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 28,600 SEK/month (women, public sector)
- Highest salary: 57,300 SEK/month (women, private sector, research education)
- Highest salary for men: 55,700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for men: 29,600 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 248 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 40 900 SEK, men 42 300 SEK (97% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salary variations may occur between metropolitan regions and other parts of the country, with higher salaries often seen in regions with larger university hospitals and private sector.
Education and qualifications
To work as a physiologist assistant, a high school education with a science or healthcare focus is usually required, followed by supplementary courses or internal training in physiology and medical technology. Practical experience is highly valued, and some employers may require specific certifications depending on the workplace. Certain roles may also require familiarity with biomedical laboratory methods and patient examinations.
- High school education: Science or healthcare program
- Supplementary courses: Physiology, medical technology, patient handling
- Internship/trainee: Practical experience from clinical settings is highly valued
- Certifications: Some employers require certificates in CPR or similar
- Prerequisites: Basic medical understanding, good technical skills
Physiologist assistants often work in interdisciplinary teams, gaining broad insight into both medical technology and patient care. This combination makes the profession particularly attractive for those who enjoy varied workdays and rapid technological changes.
Common benefits and compensations
Physiologist assistants often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days. Continuing education, subsidized work clothing, and options for flextime or reduced hours during shift work are also common. Some workplaces offer access to occupational health services and discounted healthcare services.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a physiologist assistant varies by region and workplace, but the increasing demand for specialist skills makes the job market generally strong. Challenges within the profession include rapid technological development, requirements for ongoing training, and managing advanced medical technical equipment. The work environment can sometimes be stressful with high patient flow and demands for accuracy under time pressure. The ability to collaborate with various professional groups and quickly adapt to new routines is crucial for success and job satisfaction.
Tips for those wishing to become a physiologist assistant
To succeed as a physiologist assistant, it is helpful to have a genuine interest in both medicine and technology. Precision is crucial, as examinations and measurements require responsibility and accuracy. Being attentive to patients and collaborating well with colleagues facilitates daily work and contributes to a good work environment. Flexibility helps when new working methods or technical solutions are introduced, and analytical skills make it easier to interpret and understand measurement results. A willingness to continuously further educate oneself is valuable as technology advances, and patience is essential when workload is high or pace varies. Showing engagement and service-mindedness towards both patients and colleagues is highly appreciated.
Key facts about physiologist assistants
- Education level: High school education with supplementary courses
- Work environment: Clinical laboratories and specialist clinics
- Work schedule: Daytime, shifts, and sometimes weekends
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
- Special skills: Medical technology and patient-centered examinations
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a physiologist assistant can develop into more specialized roles, such as advanced diagnostics, patient education, or supervising new staff. Further education can open opportunities for positions as biomedical analysts or managers of smaller work groups. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for employment within the biomedical analyst profession are large and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The industry is characterized by recruitment difficulties, which means good chances for employment and continued career development. Currently, there are 375 available jobs nationwide, underscoring the strong job market.
Frequently asked questions about physiologist assistants
- What does a physiologist assistant earn?
- The average salary is 41 200 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and workplace.
- What are the gender differences in salary for physiologist assistants?
- Women earn 40 900 SEK, which is 97% of men's salary (42 300 SEK).
- What education is required to become a physiologist assistant?
- High school education with a science or healthcare focus, along with supplementary courses in physiology and medical technology.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, higher salaries are often found in metropolitan regions and the private sector, especially at university hospitals.
- What is the job market like for physiologist assistants?
- Opportunities for employment are large nationwide, with 375 available jobs and high ongoing demand.
- What are the most common job duties?
- Patient preparation, conducting physiological tests, handling medical technical equipment, and documenting results.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for physiologist assistants?
- The highest salary is 57,300 SEK (female, private sector with research education), and the lowest is 28,600 SEK (female, public sector).
