What does a doctor, general practitioner, do? – Tasks and work environment
A doctor, general practitioner, is responsible for investigating, diagnosing, and treating patients with a wide range of medical conditions within primary care. Tasks include everything from acute assessments to long-term follow-up of chronic illnesses, as well as coordinating efforts with other healthcare providers. The role also involves writing referrals, issuing certificates, and providing advice on preventive health. The work environment is often characterized by a fast pace, variety, and close contact with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals. The work is usually performed at health centers, clinics, or within private primary care.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for doctors, general practitioners, has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month. The following year, it increased to 92 200 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 6.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary continued to rise, albeit at a slightly slower pace, reaching today's level of 93 600 SEK per month, an increase of 1.5%. This development reflects a continued high demand for specialist doctors in primary care, where competition for experienced general practitioners is strong. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, work environment challenges, and longer training requirements contribute to rising salary levels. The trend of increasing salaries is expected to continue as long as demand exceeds the supply of qualified workforce.
Doctor, general practitioner salary – complete 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 rate: 563 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (92 900 SEK versus 94 300 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a doctor, general practitioner, is long and requires both theoretical education and practical experience. It begins with medical studies at university, followed by internship (AT), and then specialist training (ST) in general medicine. High demands are placed on medical competence, communication skills, and continuous professional development to maintain licensure and specialist authorization.
- Medical degree: University studies, 6 years (360 credits)
- Internship (AT): Approximately 18–24 months
- Specialist training (ST) in general medicine: About 5 years
- Licensing: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after AT
- Continuing education: Mandatory ongoing medical training
Many general practitioners report that the variety of tasks makes the profession particularly stimulating. Following patients through different life stages creates a unique relationship and understanding of the individual's entire life situation.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to base salary, benefits such as pension schemes, flexitime, wellness contributions, paid further education, and in some cases extra vacation days are often offered. Many employers in healthcare also provide opportunities for skills development and supervision, and in certain regions, additional pay for working during inconvenient hours or in rural areas.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a doctor, general practitioner, is relatively low, as demand for the expertise is very high nationwide. At the same time, challenges include high workload, demands for broad medical knowledge, and responsibility for many patients. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulty in finding enough qualified candidates, while workload and administrative requirements are often reported as stressful. Collaboration with other professional groups and the need to stay updated with medical research further demand flexibility and ongoing education.
Tips for those who want to become a doctor, general practitioner
To succeed as a doctor, general practitioner, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in people. Good communication skills facilitate both patient interactions and teamwork with colleagues. Patience and resilience to stress are important, as the workday is often intense and unpredictable. It is wise to establish routines for ongoing education early, as medical guidelines and treatment methods are constantly evolving. Engagement in supervision or mentorship can also provide valuable experience and networks. Being attentive and empathetic helps build trust, which is crucial in patient contact. Finally, being flexible and open to new working methods is an advantage, as primary care is a rapidly changing environment.
Key facts about Doctor, general practitioner
- Educational level: Medical degree (6 years) + AT + ST (about 12 years total)
- Work environment: Health centers, clinics, or private primary care
- Demand: Very high, 375 job openings in Sweden spring 2024
- Typical employment: Permanent position, daytime hours
- Special skills: Broad medical competence and good communication skills
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a doctor, general practitioner, there are good opportunities to develop into roles such as medical leader or clinic manager within primary care. Other possible career paths include working as a supervisor for ST or AT doctors, researcher, or consultant in medical development. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that job opportunities are very large, and demand is expected to increase further over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulty in finding enough qualified candidates, although some part-time work and attrition are present. Overall, the outlook is very positive for doctors, general practitioners, nationwide.
Common questions about Doctor, general practitioner
- What does a doctor, general practitioner, earn?
- The average salary is 93 600 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 563 SEK.
- How long is the training to become a general practitioner?
- About 12 years, including undergraduate education, internship, and specialist training.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn 98% of what men do (92 900 SEK versus 94 300 SEK).
- What are the future prospects for the profession?
- Projections show that demand is very high and expected to increase further.
- What benefits are common in the profession?
- Pension schemes, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and paid continuing education are common.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a general practitioner?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK and the lowest 84,600 SEK per month, depending on gender and sector.
