Health informant

What does a Hälsoupplysare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Hälsoupplysare works to promote health and prevent illness among individuals and groups through information, advice, and educational efforts. Tasks often include planning and implementing health-promoting activities, evaluating initiatives, and collaborating with other professionals in areas such as occupational health, schools, or municipal services. Hälsoupplysare may also work with mapping lifestyle habits, providing support for lifestyle changes, and developing and distributing material on diet, exercise, stress management, and other health topics. The work environment is varied and can include office work, direct contact with clients, and activities at schools, companies, or in the community.

Salary development over time

The salary for Hälsoupplysare has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 35 000 SEK. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 9.6% over three years. The wage increase can be explained by a growing demand for health-promoting skills, especially in the public sector and corporate health, as well as an increasing interest in preventive efforts in society. Despite the positive trend, salary growth remains relatively steady compared to some other professions, which may partly be due to the still large supply of trained Hälsoupplysare.

Hälsoupplysare salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 44,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK/hour
• Men: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women: 34 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95 % of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a Hälsoupplysare, a post-secondary education in health education, public health, or a similar field is usually required, often at university or college level. Many employers also value experience in health promotion and good pedagogical skills. Internships during studies and targeted certifications can enhance employment prospects.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in public health or health education (3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include Motivational Interviewing (MI), stress management
• Internship: Often mandatory during studies
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Courses: Online courses in health communication and lifestyle change are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Hälsoupplysare are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options, especially in the public sector and larger private employers. Support for training, professional development, and extra vacation days are also common, along with access to health-promoting activities at the workplace.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Hälsoupplysare today is characterized by some competition, where the number of applicants often exceeds available positions. According to the Employment Service's prognosis, there is a surplus of trained professionals in the field, although demand is expected to increase over the next five years. Challenges may also include standing out in the job market, especially for recent graduates without work experience. The ability to combine theoretical knowledge with practical pedagogy and project management is often crucial for success. Staying updated on new research in health and communication is also important.

Tips for aspiring Hälsoupplysare

To succeed as a Hälsoupplysare, having a genuine interest in people's well-being and strong communication skills are beneficial, as they facilitate reaching different target groups. Being attentive and empathetic helps tailor advice to individual needs, while structured project management makes it easier to run and evaluate health initiatives. Gaining work experience during studies through internships or part-time jobs in wellness is recommended. Continuing professional development, such as courses in motivational interviewing and digital health communication, increases your chances on the job market. Networking within the industry and staying updated on current trends also provide a valuable advantage. Engagement and curiosity are key qualities for creating long-term results and contributing to a sustainable working life.

Key facts about Hälsoupplysare

• Education level: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in public health or health education
• Work environment: Varied, including office work and fieldwork
• Typical employment: Public sector, but also private employers
• Demand: Limited today, but increasing over 5 years
• Available jobs in the field: 237

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Hälsoupplysare can advance to roles such as project manager in public health, education coordinator, or coordinator for larger health initiatives in regions or municipalities. Some choose to specialize in areas like digital health communication, workplace health, or stress management. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are currently limited, but forecasts indicate increasing demand in the coming years, especially within the public sector and larger companies. Opportunities for further education and certification can also open doors to consultancy roles or leadership positions within the wellness sector.

Frequently asked questions about Hälsoupplysare

• What does a Hälsoupplysare earn?
  - A Hälsoupplysare has an average monthly salary of 35 000 SEK, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education level.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 36 500 SEK and women 34 600 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is needed to become a Hälsoupplysare?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in public health or health education, often supplemented with internships and certifications.
• What is the job market like for Hälsoupplysare?
  - Currently, there is some competition, but demand is expected to increase over five years according to the Employment Service.
• What are common work environments for Hälsoupplysare?
  - Common workplaces include municipalities, regions, occupational health services, and schools, often involving fieldwork.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for Hälsoupplysare?
  - The highest salary is 44,600 SEK (male, public sector), while the lowest is 29,800 SEK (female, private sector).
• What are the typical benefits?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexible hours, remote work, and professional development opportunities.