Orthopedist

What does an orthopedist do? – Tasks and work environment

An orthopedist is a specialist doctor focusing on diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system – that is, bones, joints, muscles, and tendons. Tasks include everything from patient consultations and clinical examinations to advanced surgical procedures and follow-up care. Orthopedists often work at hospital orthopedic clinics, in operating rooms, outpatient clinics, and sometimes within primary care or private specialist clinics. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, many urgent cases, and close collaboration with other medical professionals such as physiotherapists, anesthesiologists, and nurses.

Salary development over time

The salary for orthopedists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 92 200 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 6.7 %. In 2024, the average salary continues upward and is now 93 600 SEK, a growth of an additional 1.5 % compared to the previous year. This development is driven by high demand for specialists, increased requirements for competence, and a general push within healthcare to retain and recruit qualified orthopedists. Notably, differences between regions and employers are evident, where competition for skilled orthopedists sometimes results in better conditions and higher salaries.

Orthopedist 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 pay gap: Women earn 98 % of what men do (92 900 SEK vs 94 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an orthopedist is long and requires both theoretical education and practical experience. The basic education is a medical degree followed by internship (AT) and then specialist training (ST) in orthopedics. In addition to formal degrees, continuous professional development and certain certifications are often required to work as a specialist.

• Medical degree: 5.5 years at university
• Internship (AT): approximately 18–24 months
• Specialist training (ST) in orthopedics: about 5 years
• Certification as a specialist doctor: after approved ST
• Ongoing professional development: courses, seminars, and conferences
• Prerequisites: Good grades and high admission scores for medical programs

Common benefits and compensations

Orthopedists often have access to a wide range of benefits, such as extra vacation days, favorable pension solutions, professional development, wellness allowances, and sometimes opportunities for bonuses or extra compensation for on-call duties. Company cars, flexible working hours, and subsidized lunches may also be available depending on the employer and region.

Competition and challenges

The competition for orthopedist positions varies between regions, but generally, there is a high demand for specialist competence in orthopedics. At the same time, the training pathway is long and demanding, meaning it often takes many years before new orthopedists are fully qualified. The recruitment situation is described as a combination of difficulties in finding the right skills and high turnover within the profession, with some choosing to work part-time or leave the field. Workload can be high, especially in emergency departments and during on-call shifts, and the work environment requires both physical and mental resilience.

Tips for those who want to become an orthopedist

To succeed as an orthopedist, it’s good to combine an interest in medicine and technology with perseverance and problem-solving skills. Being meticulous and analytical is crucial, especially when diagnosing complex cases and performing surgeries. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with patients and colleagues, and empathy is important for building trust in interactions with people in difficult situations. Flexibility and stress tolerance are helpful during emergencies and unpredictable situations that often occur in the profession. Early internships and involvement in medical student associations can provide valuable experiences and contacts within orthopedics. Finally, staying updated on new research and techniques is beneficial for professional development.

Key facts about orthopedists

• Education level: Specialist doctor degree (approximately 12 years total)
• Work environment: Hospitals, clinics, and outpatient services
• Demand: Very high, 375 job openings in 2024
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes on-call and standby
• Special skills: Clinical examinations, surgery, and rehabilitation

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as an orthopedist, there are opportunities to develop within various subspecialties, such as pediatric orthopedics, sports medicine, or spine surgery. It is also common to take on leadership roles, conduct research, or teach new generations of doctors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the job market for specialist doctors, including orthopedists, is very favorable with continued increasing demand over the next five years. Despite recruitment challenges, there are good chances of employment across the country, especially in regions with the greatest need. The number of available positions is 375, reflecting the broad job market and opportunities for career development.

Frequently asked questions about orthopedists

• What does an orthopedist earn?
  - The average salary for an orthopedist is 93 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, region, and employer.
• How long is the training to become an orthopedist?
  - It takes approximately 12 years from starting medical school to becoming a certified specialist in orthopedics.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98 % of what men do within orthopedics.
• What does the job market look like for orthopedists?
  - The demand is very high, and there are 375 job openings within the profession in 2024.
• What personal qualities are important for an orthopedist?
  - Attention to detail, resilience under stress, empathy, and good communication skills are essential qualities.
• In what work environments do orthopedists operate?
  - Mainly in hospitals, clinics, and sometimes within the private sector.
• What are the career options for orthopedists?
  - Specializing further, conducting research, teaching, or taking leadership roles within orthopedics.