Anesthesiologist

What does a Narkosläkare do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A narkosläkare, also called an anesthesiologist, has the overall medical responsibility for the patient's anesthesia and vital functions during surgery, childbirth, or other medical procedures. Tasks include planning and administering anesthesia, monitoring the patient's condition, and handling emergency situations requiring quick medical decisions. Narkosläkare work in teams with operating room nurses, assistant nurses, and other doctors, often in a high-tech and intensive work environment. 24/7 readiness and working at inconvenient hours are common, especially at larger hospitals.

Salary Development Over Time

Narkosläkare have seen a clear positive salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023 and reached 93 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% during the period, a significant rise compared to many other healthcare professions. The increase can be explained by continued high demand for specialist doctors in anesthesiology, increased workloads, and competition for expertise between regions and private employers. Gender differences are relatively small, with women earning about 98% of what men do, but a more balanced distribution is observed over time. Forecasts indicate that salary growth will continue as the need for qualified anesthetic personnel increases nationally.

Narkosläkare 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 wage: 563 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do
• Regional differences: Some variations exist, mainly between urban and rural areas

Education and Qualifications

To work as a narkosläkare, a long and demanding educational path is required, developing both theoretical and practical medical competence. After obtaining a medical degree, one must complete a licensing internship and then specialize in anesthesiology and intensive care. The educational route involves several years of study and practice, as well as ongoing professional development in new medications, techniques, and safety procedures.

• Medical program: 6 years (basic medical education)
• Internship (AT): 1.5–2 years (general internship for license)
• Specialist training: 5 years in anesthesiology and intensive care
• Certifications: Mandatory courses and ongoing education in anesthesiology and emergency medicine
• Practical training: Clinical internship throughout the training period
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for higher education, good grades in science subjects

Common Benefits and Compensation

Narkosläkare are often offered generous benefits such as extra vacation weeks, paid training, access to wellness allowances, and flexible or scheduled working hours according to preferences. Working in the public sector also includes pension contributions and often collective parental leave agreements. On-call and standby allowances can constitute a significant part of total income, especially when working evenings, nights, and weekends.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a narkosläkare is relatively low considering the high demand, but the recruitment situation is described as paradoxical: while many positions are available, the workload is high, and a significant proportion leave the profession. Challenges include long shifts, the requirement for continuous further education, and managing stressful situations with great responsibility. Technological advances and new treatment methods require narkosläkare to continually update their skills. Finding a balance between work and private life can be difficult, especially in regions with staff shortages.

Tips for Aspiring Narkosläkare

To succeed as a narkosläkare, it is good to combine thoroughness with the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Developing an interest in both human interaction and advanced medical technology early in education provides a strong foundation. Being communicative and empathetic is crucial, as patient contact often occurs in vulnerable situations where reassurance and clarity are needed. Curiosity about medical development and a willingness to continue education are also important, as well as good stress tolerance and the ability to handle emergencies. It is also valuable to seek internships in surgical operations early to build experience and networks.

Key Facts about Narkosläkare

• Education level: Medical license + 5 years of specialist training
• Work environment: Hospitals, operating rooms, and intensive care units
• Typical work form: Full-time, often with on-call duties
• Demand: Very high, especially in larger cities
• Special skills: Anesthesiology, pain management, and vital sign monitoring

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After 3–5 years as a narkosläkare, opportunities include becoming a medical manager in anesthesiology, supervising younger doctors, or taking leadership roles within surgical operations. Further specialization can lead to careers in intensive care, pain management, or research. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, the future outlook is very favorable: job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to increase further over the next five years. Nationwide, recruitment difficulties are reported, opening opportunities for career development and good salary conditions. Currently, there are 375 job openings in the specialist group, including narkosläkare.

Frequently Asked Questions about Narkosläkare

• What does a Narkosläkare earn?
  - A narkosläkare has an average salary of 93 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, region, and employer.
• How long is the education to become a Narkosläkare?
  - The education consists of 6 years of medical studies, approximately 1.5–2 years of internship, and then 5 years of specialist training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the demand for narkosläkare?
  - The demand is very high and is expected to increase further in the coming years according to the Employment Service.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - High workload, uncomfortable working hours, and the requirement for continuous further education are some of the biggest challenges.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Narkosläkare?
  - The highest salary is 110,600 SEK and the lowest 84,600 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education level.