Otolaryngologist

What does an ENT doctor do? – Tasks and work environment

An ENT doctor, or specialist in ear, nose, and throat diseases (ENT), diagnoses and treats illnesses and injuries in the ears, nose, sinuses, oral cavity, throat, larynx, and neck. Tasks include outpatient care, surgical procedures, endoscopic examinations, hearing assessments, and collaboration with other specialists such as audiologists and speech therapists. The work primarily takes place at hospital ENT clinics, but also in specialist clinics or as a private practitioner. The environment is characterized by advanced medical technology, high precision requirements, and close cooperation with colleagues in multidisciplinary teams.

Salary development over time

ENT doctors have experienced a stable and clearly positive salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 SEK in 2023. The latest figures for 2024 show a further increase to 93 600 SEK on average. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 8.3% over two years. This trend reflects both the increased demand for specialist expertise in ENT and the fact that specialist doctors are a profession with high competition for skilled professionals. The development is also influenced by regional efforts to retain and recruit experienced doctors, as well as the growing need for advanced medical treatment in the field.

ENT doctor 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/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salaries (92 900 SEK for women, 94 300 SEK for men)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan regions and at university clinics

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an ENT doctor is long and requires primarily a medical degree, followed by licensure and specialist training in ear, nose, and throat diseases. The education is structured and includes both theoretical and practical components, with clinical experience and further training being central parts. Admission is competitive and requires high academic results and personal qualities.

• Medical degree: 5.5 years of university studies
• General internship (AT): 18–24 months (including approved AT exam)
• Specialist training (ST) in ENT: approximately 5 years
• Licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare: Mandatory
• Additional courses and certifications: e.g., surgical techniques, audiology, leadership
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, and high grades in science subjects

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, ENT doctors are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, pension contributions, professional development, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses for on-call work. Opportunities for research, supervision, and further education are common, especially at larger hospitals and university clinics. Flexible working hours and good conditions for parental leave are also advantages of the profession.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by high competition for specialist positions, especially in attractive locations and larger clinics. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are common, leading to a paradoxical situation where the demand for experienced ENT doctors is high, but the number of qualified specialists is limited. Challenges include high demands for medical safety, continuous education, and the ability to handle stress in complex patient cases. Technological development and new treatment methods require ongoing learning. Balancing clinical work and administrative tasks can be demanding, particularly for those combining research or leadership with patient care.

Tips for aspiring ENT doctors

To succeed as an ENT doctor, it’s good to combine curiosity with patience, as the path to specialist competence is long and requires perseverance. Strong communication skills facilitate patient interactions and teamwork in multidisciplinary settings. Precision and analytical abilities are crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, especially in complex cases. Flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes in the work environment are also valuable, as emergency situations can arise. An active interest in medical technology and continuous learning makes it easier to keep up with rapid developments in the field. Seeking mentorship and participating in relevant networks early in your career can provide valuable contacts and insights. Finally, empathy and a strong ethical compass are essential qualities for creating trust and security with patients and their families.

Key facts about ENT doctors

• Salary range: 84,600–110,600 SEK/month
• Education level: Medical degree + specialist training (approximately 12 years total)
• Work environment: Hospitals, specialist clinics, private practice
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in the long term
• Number of job openings: 375 (as of May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a licensed ENT doctor, opportunities open for specialization in areas such as otologic surgery, audiology, voice therapy, or head and neck surgery. Many choose to combine clinical work with research or teaching, and there are opportunities for leadership roles or international assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, job prospects are very good nationally, with an expected increase in demand over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties within the profession are also reported, meaning competition for skilled specialists remains high. The profession thus offers both stability and promising career opportunities ahead.

Frequently asked questions about ENT doctors

• What is the average salary of an ENT doctor?
  - An ENT doctor has an average monthly salary of 93 600 SEK.
• How long is the training to become an ENT doctor?
  - The educational path takes approximately 12 years, including basic education, internship, and specialist training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• Where can ENT doctors work?
  - Common workplaces include hospitals, specialist clinics, and private practices.
• What are the future prospects for ENT doctors?
  - Job opportunities are very good, and demand is expected to increase in the coming years.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Typical benefits include professional development, extra vacation days, and pension contributions.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions and at university clinics.