Assistive technology consultant

What does a Hjälpmedelskonsulent do? – Tasks and work environment

A Hjälpmedelskonsulent works with identifying, evaluating, and prescribing various types of assistive devices for people with disabilities. The tasks often include assessing individual needs, coordinating with other healthcare professionals, and following up and evaluating the provided aids. The work is usually carried out in close contact with users, relatives, and healthcare staff, and may involve visits to homes, workplaces, or healthcare facilities. The work environment is diverse and requires flexibility and good communication skills, as interventions are always tailored to the individual's needs and life situation.

Salary development over time

The salary for Hjälpmedelskonsulenter has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,400 SEK per month, and the following year, 2023, it increased to 36 600. The most recent data for 2024 indicates a continued rise to 38 100, representing a total increase of approximately 7.6% over three years. This salary trend reflects a rising demand for expertise, especially in light of an aging population and increasing need for personalized assistive devices. The salary increase can also be attributed to greater specialization and requirements for further training within the profession. The trend suggests that the role is becoming increasingly valued as tasks become more complex and technologically advanced.

Hjälpmedelskonsulent salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,300 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 229 SEK
• Women earn: 38 200 SEK/month
• Men earn: 37 400 SEK/month
• Women earn on average: 102% of what men do
• Regional differences: No detailed statistics available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Hjälpmedelskonsulent, a university degree in occupational therapy or a similar field is usually required. The education provides a broad foundation in medicine, technology, and pedagogy, which is essential for customizing assistive devices to individual needs. Many employers also require experience in assessment work and good knowledge of current assistive device systems and relevant legislation.

• Formal degree: Occupational therapist, 3 years (college/university)
• Additional courses: Assistive technology, prescribing rights, disability
• Internship: Included in the education, often in healthcare, social services, or habilitation
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Tips for choosing specialization: Focus on rehabilitation and assistive technology

Common benefits and compensations

Hjälpmedelskonsulenter are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, professional development, flexitime, and sometimes remote work options. Occupational pension, extra vacation days, and subsidized lunches are also common within some employers, especially in the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the Hjälpmedelskonsulent profession is generally moderate, but the recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: there are both difficulties in recruiting and a relatively high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. A challenge is to stay updated on new assistive devices and legislation, as well as meeting increasing demands from users and clients. Workload can vary and sometimes be high, especially during new reforms or technical upgrades. Working in municipalities or regions also requires handling complex cases and working solution-oriented in teams.

Tips for those who want to become a Hjälpmedelskonsulent

To succeed as a Hjälpmedelskonsulent, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in people and technology. It is wise to seek internships during your education that provide experience in assistive device prescription and collaboration with other professionals. Being attentive and having good communication skills facilitates contact with users and teamwork with colleagues from various fields. Flexibility is valuable, as tasks can quickly shift between assessments, follow-ups, and training. The ability to work independently and take initiative is helpful, as is a continuous desire for further education within new assistive devices and legislation. Patience and empathy are essential qualities to build trust and confidence with the individuals receiving support.

Key facts about Hjälpmedelskonsulent

• Education level: College degree (occupational therapist, 3 years)
• Work environment: Healthcare, home, and office settings
• Demand: Great employment opportunities
• Job openings (2024): 375 within the profession
• Special knowledge: Assistive technology and disability

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Hjälpmedelskonsulent, opportunities open to specialize in specific assistive device areas, take on a coordinating role, or work as a trainer in assistive technology. Projections from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate significant employment prospects, with demand expected to increase further over the next five years, partly due to an aging population. Experience and further education can also lead to roles such as operations developer, project manager, or responsible for procurement within larger organizations. There are good opportunities for career advancement in both public and private sectors, and expertise in digital assistive devices is becoming increasingly valuable.

Frequently asked questions about Hjälpmedelskonsulent

• What does a Hjälpmedelskonsulent earn?
  - A Hjälpmedelskonsulent has an average salary of 38 100 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Hjälpmedelskonsulent?
  - Usually, a university degree as an occupational therapist, which takes 3 years.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Projections show great employment opportunities and increasing demand in the coming years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Hjälpmedelskonsulent?
  - The highest salary is 48,300 SEK and the lowest is 32,700 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowance, flexitime, occupational pension, and opportunities for professional development.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 375 available jobs according to the latest statistics.