Oncologist salary

Salary and Work for Oncologists

Oncologists, or specialist physicians in oncology, play a crucial role in the treatment and care of cancer patients. Their work involves diagnosing, treating, and monitoring cancer as well as conducting research and education in the field. Oncologists work closely with other medical specialists to provide the best possible care to their patients.

Salary Statistics for Oncologists

The average salary for an oncologist in Sweden is 92 200 SEK per month. There is a slight difference between genders, with men earning an average of 93 800 SEK and women 90 800 SEK, meaning that women earn 97% of what men do in this profession. The salary has increased from 86 400 to 92 200 SEK compared to the previous measurement, reflecting a positive salary development for the profession.

Education and Qualifications

Becoming an oncologist requires a long and intensive education. It starts with the medical program, which is approximately 5.5 years long, followed by a general internship (AT) of about 18-24 months. After AT, there is a specialization internship (ST) in oncology that takes an additional five years. During this time, the physician receives extensive training and experience in cancer treatment and research.

Work Conditions and Opportunities

The Swedish Public Employment Service assesses the job opportunities for specialist physicians, including oncologists, as very good nationally. Over a five-year period, the demand for oncologists is expected to increase, which means that job opportunities will remain strong. However, there may be recruitment challenges, creating a paradoxical situation where there is high demand but difficulties in filling all available positions.

What Does an Oncologist Do?

The main tasks of an oncologist include diagnosing various types of cancer, developing treatment plans, and monitoring patients' progress. Treatment methods can vary and include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Oncologists are also involved in research to develop new treatment methods and improve existing protocols. They often work in multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care for patients.

Considerations for Becoming an Oncologist

Working as an oncologist can be both rewarding and demanding. It is important to have a strong sense of empathy and the ability to handle emotionally challenging situations, as the work often involves supporting patients and their families through tough times. Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with other medical specialists are also crucial.

Benefits and Working Conditions

Many workplaces offer benefits such as paid further education and conferences, allowing oncologists to stay updated with the latest findings in their field. Other common benefits may include a paid mobile phone, flexible hours, and various forms of health care packages.

Future Outlook

The future for oncologists looks bright with an increased demand for their expertise. The national assessment indicates that job opportunities for specialist physicians, including oncologists, will increase over a five-year period. This means there are good prospects for those choosing this career path.