What does an oncologist do? – Tasks and working environment
An oncologist is a specialist doctor focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer diseases. The tasks include investigating patients, making diagnoses, and developing individualized treatment plans that may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and medication. Oncologists work closely with other healthcare specialists such as pathologists, surgeons, and radiologists, and have regular contact with patients and their families. The working environment often features a fast pace, complex cases, and emotionally demanding situations, but also offers the opportunity to make a significant difference for severely ill people both inpatient and outpatient.
Salary development over time
Oncologists' salaries have shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 92 200 in 2023 and further to 93 600 in 2024. The total increase amounts to approximately 8.3% over three years, which is higher than the average salary growth for many other healthcare professions. The salary increase can largely be explained by continued high demand for specialist doctors in oncology, increased requirements for competence and experience, and a growing need for advanced cancer treatment. Salary levels are also influenced by factors such as work experience, region, and employment type.
Oncologist 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: Women earn 98% of what men do (92 900 SEK vs 94 300 SEK)
- Regional differences: No specific data available
Working as an oncologist often involves following patients through long treatment periods and building strong patient relationships. Many oncologists describe this as one of the most meaningful parts of the profession, where the ability to give hope and support is central.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an oncologist is long and requires several years of university studies and practical experience. First, a medical degree and license are needed, followed by specialization in oncology. The education is theoretically comprehensive and also includes clinical service and continuous professional development within the field.
- Medical degree: 6 years at university, license required
- Specialist training in oncology: 5 years after obtaining a license
- Internship (AT): 18–21 months
- Residency (ST): specialization in oncology, including practical training and supervision
- Continuing education: courses, conferences, and certifications to stay updated
- Prerequisites: Science-based high school education and high grades for admission to medical studies
Common benefits and compensations
Oncologists are often offered competitive pension terms, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, additional insurances, and access to corporate healthcare, sometimes even bonuses for irregular working hours.
Competition and challenges
The profession as an oncologist is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but competition for the most attractive positions can be significant, especially at larger university hospitals. Challenges include high workload, complex medical decisions, and emotionally demanding situations, as patients are often in difficult life situations. Balancing clinical work, research, and administration can be difficult. Paradoxically, despite high demand, there is sometimes difficulty in finding the right competence, leading to some positions remaining vacant. Oncologists therefore need to be prepared for continuous development and adaptation to new treatment methods and technologies.
Tips for aspiring oncologists
To succeed as an oncologist, it is beneficial to be both analytical and empathetic. A strong interest in medical science and the ability to work systematically help in diagnosing and treating complex cases. Developing resilience and stress tolerance is crucial, as the work often involves long days and difficult news for patients. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and strengthen patient relationships, which are central to the role. Continuous learning and openness to new treatment methods provide advantages in a rapidly evolving medical world. Curiosity and flexibility are also important traits to adapt to new research findings and technological advances. Finally, a high degree of compassion and professionalism is essential to build trust and security among patients and their families.
Key facts about oncologists
- Education level: Medical degree + specialist training (at least 11 years)
- Professional group: Specialist doctor in oncology
- Work environment: Hospitals, university hospitals, and specialized clinics
- Demand: Very high, especially in the public sector
- Number of job openings: 375 in the field
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an oncologist, there are opportunities to advance to leading roles such as chief physician, research leader, or department head within oncology. Some choose to specialize further in specific cancer types or work clinically with advanced treatment and research. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that opportunities for work as a specialist, including oncologists, are very good and that demand is expected to increase over the next five years. Paradoxically, there is a shortage of specialist competence, meaning many positions are quickly filled but sometimes remain vacant. Those pursuing a career in oncology can therefore expect a stable job market and good opportunities for further development and specialization.
Frequently asked questions about oncologists
- What is the average salary of an oncologist?
- An oncologist has an average salary of 93 600 SEK per month.
- What is the highest salary for an oncologist?
- The highest salary is 110,600 SEK per month for men and 101,500 SEK for women.
- What is required to become an oncologist?
- Medical degree, license, internship, and specialist training in oncology are required.
- How is the job market for oncologists?
- Demand is very high and there are about 375 job openings in the field.
- What are the gender differences in salaries for oncologists?
- Women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What is the working environment for an oncologist?
- Oncologists mainly work at hospitals, university hospitals, and specialized clinics.
- How long does it take to become an oncologist?
- It takes at least 11 years from starting medical education to becoming a certified specialist.
