What does a pulmonologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A pulmonologist, or specialist in lung diseases, is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and following up with patients with various lung conditions. Common tasks include performing spirometry, interpreting X-ray and laboratory results, and coordinating care for patients with conditions such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or lung cancer. The work is often conducted at hospital lung clinics, but also at specialist outpatient clinics and within research. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, close collaboration with other specialists, nurses, and paramedics, as well as high patient contact where communication and empathy are central to the role.
Salary development over time
Pulmonologists have experienced a stable and positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 93 600 SEK, which represents an increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. This upward trend can largely be explained by increased demand for specialist skills in healthcare and a national focus on retaining and recruiting doctors for shortage specialties. Salary development has also been influenced by regional efforts to attract experienced specialists and the overall strong job market for specialists.
Pulmonologist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (male, public sector)
- Highest salary female: 101,500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary female: 91,200 SEK/month
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of what men do (men 94 300 SEK, women 92 900 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions and employers, with higher levels in metropolitan areas and the public sector.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a pulmonologist is long and requires both theoretical education and extensive practical experience. First, a medical degree and licensure are required, followed by internship (AT) and specialist training (ST) in pulmonology. During specialization, knowledge in diagnostics, treatment, and research related to lung diseases is deepened. Additional merits include research experience, participation in international courses, and mentoring of junior colleagues.
- Medical degree: 5.5 years of university studies
- Licensure: After completing the medical degree and approved internship (minimum 18 months)
- Specialist training (ST): Approximately 5 years in pulmonology
- Practical training: Internship (AT) and specialist training (ST)
- Meritorious: Research experience, international courses, mentoring
Pulmonologists often encounter a wide range of patients, from young individuals with asthma to older patients with chronic or rare lung diseases. The role thus offers great opportunities to specialize further or work across disciplines with other medical specialties.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to base salary, pulmonologists often have access to benefits such as extra vacation days, professional development, wellness allowances, and pension contributions. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, research opportunities, supervision, and compensation for on-call and standby duties.
Competition and challenges
Although the demand for pulmonologists is high, competition exists for the most attractive positions, especially at university hospitals and research-intensive clinics. Challenges include staying updated in a rapidly evolving medical field, managing high workload, and meeting patients with complex or chronic conditions. Recruitment difficulties sometimes lead to increased workload and demands for flexibility. At the same time, the profession offers significant opportunities for further education and specialization, making it attractive for many doctors interested in lung diseases.
Tips for aspiring pulmonologists
To succeed as a pulmonologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in patient interactions. Curiosity and a desire to continuously develop knowledge provide advantages during education and in professional life. Precision is crucial for interpreting tests and evaluating treatment outcomes, while teamwork skills facilitate working in interdisciplinary teams. Good communication skills help in difficult conversations with patients and relatives. Patience and perseverance are important, as training is lengthy and tasks often complex. Finally, initiative is an asset, especially for those wishing to contribute to research or develop new treatments.
Key facts about pulmonologists
- Educational level: Medical degree + specialist training (about 11 years total)
- Work environment: Hospitals, specialist clinics, and research
- Work mode: Full-time, often on-call and standby
- Demand: Very high, especially in metropolitan regions
- Special skills: Diagnostics, treatment, and research in lung diseases
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years of experience as a pulmonologist, opportunities exist to advance to senior physician, medical director, research leader, or to work in training new doctors. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for specialists, including pulmonologists, is very good with substantial opportunities across the country. In the next five years, demand is expected to increase further, and recruitment difficulties lead employers to focus on retaining and developing experienced specialists. There are also opportunities to specialize further in areas such as lung cancer, intensive care, or research, broadening career options.
Frequently asked questions about pulmonologists
- What does a pulmonologist earn?
- The average salary for a pulmonologist is 93 600 SEK per month.
- How long is the training to become a pulmonologist?
- The path to specialist takes about 11 years, including medical degree, licensure, and specialist training.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What does the job market look like for pulmonologists?
- The job market is very good with great opportunities for employment and increasing demand in the long term.
- Which workplaces hire pulmonologists?
- Hospitals, specialist clinics, and research institutions are common employers.
- What are the most common benefits?
- Benefits include professional development, extra vacation days, and wellness allowances.
- How much does the highest-paid pulmonologist earn?
- The highest salary for a pulmonologist is 110,600 SEK per month.
