Cardiologist

What does a cardiologist do? – Tasks and work environment

Cardiologists are specialist doctors focusing on heart and blood vessel diseases. Their tasks include investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with conditions such as heart failure, angina, heart attack, and arrhythmias. The work often involves performing and interpreting advanced examinations like ECG, ultrasound, and stress tests. Cardiologists mainly work in hospital cardiology departments or specialist clinics, but some also work in primary care. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, close collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, and a great responsibility for patients' lives and health.

Salary development over time

The salary for cardiologists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, rising to 92 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward and now stands at 93 600 SEK per month, representing an increase of approximately 8.3% over the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by the high demand for specialist skills in heart care and an increased workload due to an aging population. Recruitment difficulties within specialist doctor roles have likely also contributed to the upward salary development. Today, cardiologists are among the highest-paid professionals in Swedish healthcare.

Cardiologist salary – comprehensive 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 wage: 563 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (92 900 SEK compared to 94 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a cardiologist, a long and demanding educational path is required. After completing basic medical training, licensing, general internship (AT), specialist training (ST) in internal medicine, and further specialization in cardiology are necessary. The education combines theoretical studies, practical training, and clinical work under supervision. Formal requirements and competition for training positions make the route to becoming a fully qualified specialist both challenging and time-consuming.

• Medical program: 6 years (360 credits, university degree)
• General internship (AT): approximately 1.5–2 years
• Specialist training (ST) in internal medicine: approximately 5 years
• Additional specialization in cardiology: approximately 2 years within the framework of ST
• Licensing: Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare requirements for approved AT, ST, and specialist competence
• Continuing education and courses: Ongoing to keep up with medical advancements

Common benefits and compensations

Cardiologists often enjoy generous benefits such as extra vacation days, paid continuing education, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Compensation for on-call and standby duties is common, along with subsidized medical insurance and wellness allowances. Many employers also offer opportunities for professional development and international exchanges.

Competition and challenges

The profession of cardiology is highly sought after but also competitive, especially when applying for specialization positions at larger hospitals. The recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: while there is a shortage of fully qualified specialists, many doctors want to enter the field, which demands high merits and personal qualities. The work often involves high workload, significant responsibility, and continuous further education. Managing acute situations, making quick decisions, and working with severely ill patients can be both mentally and physically demanding. At the same time, the profession offers great opportunities for professional growth and specialization.

Tips for aspiring cardiologists

To succeed as a cardiologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in medical science and patient contact. Perseverance and thoroughness during the long educational journey are advantages, as is early experience in heart care through summer jobs, research, or shadowing. Good teamwork skills are important since cardiologists work in teams, and communication skills are needed to explain complex medical conditions to patients and relatives. The ability to handle stress and make quick decisions is crucial, especially in emergency situations. Those open to lifelong learning and staying updated with the latest research have good prospects for development in the profession. A strong commitment to patient well-being contributes to both personal satisfaction and professional success.

Key facts about Cardiologist

• Education level: At least 13–15 years of education and clinical training after high school
• Work environment: Hospitals, specialist clinics, sometimes primary care
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes on-call and standby duties
• Demand: Very high, with increasing needs according to the Employment Service
• Common tasks: Diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up of cardiovascular diseases

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a licensed cardiologist, there are good opportunities to develop within subspecialties such as electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, or heart failure. Some choose to combine clinical work with research or teaching at universities. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are very large, and demand is expected to increase further over the next five years. The national recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in filling positions, meaning that competent cardiologists are highly sought after. There are also opportunities to work internationally or advance to leadership roles within healthcare organizations. As of May 2024, there were 375 vacant specialist doctor positions in Sweden, reflecting the demand on the labor market.

Common questions about Cardiologists

• What is the average salary of a cardiologist?
  - A cardiologist has an average monthly salary of 93 600 SEK.
• How long is the education required to become a cardiologist?
  - The path to becoming a fully qualified cardiologist involves approximately 13–15 years of education and clinical training after high school.
• Are there salary differences between male and female cardiologists?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for cardiologists?
  - The outlook is very good, with high demand and increasing needs according to the Employment Service.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for cardiologists?
  - The highest salary is 110,600 SEK (men), 101,500 SEK (women). The lowest salary is 84,600 SEK (men), 91,200 SEK (women).
• What does a cardiologist do on a daily basis?
  - The duties include diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up of patients with cardiovascular diseases.
• How high is the demand for cardiologists in Sweden?
  - The demand is very high, and there are continuously available positions in the profession.