What does a general practitioner do? – Tasks and work environment
General practitioners are responsible for investigating, diagnosing, and treating patients with a wide range of medical conditions. Their tasks include handling both acute and chronic complaints, preventive health work, and follow-up of long-term treatment plans. Daily work involves meetings with patients at health centers or clinics where broad medical competence is required. The work often involves close collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and physiotherapists, and a large responsibility for coordinating care efforts. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, a diverse patient group, and the need to make well-founded decisions quickly.
Salary development over time
General practitioners have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 93 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. The salary development reflects the high demand for specialist doctors in primary care and the increasing requirements for competence, experience, and workload. Market needs for general practitioners have also driven up salary levels, especially in regions where doctor shortages are significant. At the same time, increased workloads and demands for accessibility have positively affected salary levels for the profession.
General practitioner 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: Men 94 300 SEK/month, women 92 900 SEK/month (women earn 98% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, with shortage regions often offering higher wages.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a general practitioner is long and requires both theoretical and practical studies. First, a medical degree is required, followed by internship (AT) and specialist training (ST) in general medicine. The process includes several years of clinical experience and extensive responsibility for continuous professional development.
- Medical degree: 5.5 years (university/higher education)
- Internship (AT): about 2 years
- Specialist training (ST) in general medicine: about 5 years
- Licensing: Required after AT to work independently
- Continuing education: Ongoing courses and training to stay updated
- Prerequisites: A science-oriented high school program is strongly recommended
The work of a general practitioner often involves building long-term relationships with patients and their families. It offers a unique opportunity to follow patients through different life stages and influence public health on a broad front. Many general practitioners appreciate the variety of tasks and close collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Common benefits and compensations
General practitioners are often offered generous benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development. It is common to have wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonuses linked to the performance of the practice. Several employers also provide support for further training and supervision.
Challenges and competition
The competition for positions as a general practitioner is relatively low due to high demand nationwide. At the same time, the profession involves significant challenges, such as high patient load, extensive administrative work, and requirements for continuous education. Workload can be high, especially in regions with doctor shortages. Patients' varying needs require broad medical knowledge and good prioritization skills. Additionally, rapid changes in healthcare and technology create a need for adaptability and flexibility.
Tips for aspiring general practitioners
To succeed as a general practitioner, it is helpful to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in people. Curiosity and a willingness to continually learn new things facilitate adapting to medical advances and new treatment methods. Good communication skills are crucial to build trust and understanding with patients from diverse backgrounds. Flexibility and resilience are necessary to handle unforeseen situations and a sometimes high work pace. Being organized helps manage a busy daily routine filled with various tasks and documentation. Finally, empathy and attentiveness are key qualities to provide holistic care and build long-term relationships with patients.
Key facts about general practitioners
- Education level: Medical degree + ST (about 12.5 years total)
- Work environment: Health center, clinic, or private practice
- Demand: Very high nationwide
- Employment type: Usually permanent employment, sometimes staffing assignments
- Special skills: Broad medical competence and good communication
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a general practitioner, there are opportunities to take on more advanced roles, such as medical manager, practice manager, or supervisor for younger colleagues. Some choose to specialize further in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for specialist doctors, including general practitioners, is very strong with good prospects for employment even five years ahead. Demand is expected to grow, especially in smaller towns and regions with population growth. The high mobility and increasing need for primary care support long-term positive outlooks for the profession. According to the Employment Service, there were a total of 375 job openings within the group of specialist doctors in spring 2024.
Frequently asked questions about general practitioners
- What is the salary of a general practitioner?
- A general practitioner has an average salary of 93 600 SEK per month.
- How long is the training for a general practitioner?
- The total training duration is approximately 12.5 years, including basic education, internship (AT), and specialist training (ST).
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What workplaces are most common for general practitioners?
- Most work at health centers, clinics, or private practices.
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Job opportunities are very good, and demand is expected to increase over the next five years.
- What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK and the lowest is 84,600 SEK per month.
- What personal qualities are important for general practitioners?
- Important qualities include empathy, communication skills, and analytical thinking.
