What does a pathologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A pathologist is a specialist physician who diagnoses diseases by examining tissue samples, cells, and organs. The tasks include analyzing microscopic changes, interpreting laboratory results, and providing support for treatment and prognosis assessment. Pathologists mainly work in laboratory environments in hospitals or medical institutions where the work environment is characterized by high accuracy and great responsibility for quality and patient safety.
Pathologist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (man, privately employed official)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (man, public sector, post-secondary education 3 years+)
- Hourly wage: 563 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Gender differences: Women earn on average 92 900 SEK, which is 98 % of men's salary of 94 300 SEK
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but salary differences may occur between different parts of the country
Pathologists combine medical expertise with advanced technology and often contribute to groundbreaking research in cancer diagnostics and other diseases.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the average salary of pathologists has increased from 86,400 SEK in 2022 to 92 200 SEK in 2023, reaching 93 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of about 8.3% during the period. The trend shows a stable rise, which can be linked to an increased demand for specialist competence in pathology, as well as general salary adjustments within the healthcare sector. The specialist physician group has also been affected by recruitment challenges that drive salaries up to attract and retain qualified staff. The high level of education and the responsible work contribute to the continued positive salary development.
Education and qualifications
To become a pathologist, a specialist medical education is required following the basic training to become a doctor. The education includes medical basic training and then specialization in pathology.
- Medical degree: Basic training, about 5.5 years
- Specialist training in pathology: About 5 years
- Certification: License as a specialist physician
- Internship/clinical service: Mandatory during specialist training
- Prerequisites: Medical degree and license
Common benefits and compensation
Pathologists are often offered benefits such as collectively bargained pensions, occupational pensions, wellness allowances, and the possibility of flexible working hours. Additional compensation may occur for on-call work or overtime, especially in hospital environments. Employers in the public sector may also offer further education and professional development as part of the employment.
Competition and challenges
The profession of pathologist is characterized by high demands for precision and medical competence, making the competition for training places and specialist positions tough. At the same time, there is a paradox in the recruitment situation where the need for pathologists is increasing, but challenges in the work environment and stress contribute to some leaving the profession or working part-time. The rapid technological development requires continuous professional development. The balance between high workload and the need for quality constitutes a central challenge for the profession.
Tips for those who want to become a pathologist
To succeed as a pathologist, it is good to have a strong analytical ability and an attention to detail that ensures accurate diagnoses. It is important to develop good stress resilience as the tasks often require high concentration under time pressure. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with other medical specialists and contribute to better patient care. In addition to having an interest in medical research, one should be prepared for lifelong learning to keep up with developments in medical technology and diagnostics. Finally, commitment and a strong sense of responsibility are crucial qualities for managing the significant responsibility that the pathologist role entails.
Key facts about pathologists
- Education level: Specialist physician (about 10 years total)
- Salary range: 84,600–110,600 SEK/month
- Work environment: Laboratory-based with high accuracy
- Gender differences in salary: Women earn 98 % of men's salary
- Demand: High and expected to increase nationally
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as a pathologist, there is an opportunity to advance to senior specialist, research positions, or leading roles within pathology departments. Some also choose to work in medical research or teaching at universities. The forecast from the Employment Service shows that the demand for specialist physicians, including pathologists, is high and expected to increase over the next five years. Despite recruitment difficulties, the job prospects are considered good, which means stable career opportunities for newly graduated and experienced pathologists.
Frequently asked questions about pathologists
- What does a pathologist earn?
- A pathologist has an average salary of about 93 600 SEK/month, with a range between 84,600 and 110,600 SEK depending on experience, sector, and gender.
- What education is required to become a pathologist?
- You need a medical degree followed by specialist training in pathology, totaling about 10 years.
- Are there gender differences in pathologist salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 98 % of men's salaries.
- What is the work environment like for a pathologist?
- The work environment is laboratory-based, focusing on microscopic analyses and high accuracy.
- What are the future prospects for pathologists?
- The demand for pathologists is high and is expected to increase, with good job opportunities.
- What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Attention to detail, stress resilience, and good communication skills are central qualities.
- Can pathologists work in research?
- Yes, many pathologists are involved in medical research and development.
