What does a radiologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A radiologist is a specialist doctor who analyzes medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI examinations to diagnose and monitor treatments. Tasks include interpreting image material, consulting with other doctors, and sometimes participating in interventional procedures guided by imaging diagnostics. The work environment is often clinical and office-based, with a high focus on precision and collaboration within the healthcare team. Radiologists mainly work in hospitals but can also be found in private healthcare providers or research institutions.
Salary development over time
Radiologists' salaries have shown a stable increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023. The latest figure for 2024 shows an average salary of 93 600 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8.3% from 2022 to 2024. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for imaging specialists, high educational levels, and a general shortage of specialist doctors in Sweden. The development also reflects increased responsibility and technological complexity in the profession, contributing to higher compensation over time.
Radiologists often combine medical expertise with advanced technology, making the profession unique in the medical field as it requires both clinical understanding and technical skill.
Radiologist salary – a complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK (male, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK (male, public sector, postgraduate 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: Data is lacking, but salary differences may occur depending on region and employer
Education and qualifications
To become a radiologist, a medical degree followed by specialization in radiology is required. The education includes several years of clinical practice and specialist courses, providing the technical and medical competence required for the profession.
- Medical degree: 5.5 years at university
- Specialist training in radiology: About 5 years after basic degree
- Certification and licensing: Required to work as a specialist doctor
- Internship/trainee: Clinical service during specialist training
- Prerequisites: Medical degree and completed general internship
Common benefits and compensations
Radiologists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, health insurance, and opportunities for further education. Many employers also provide flexible working hours and remote work options in some extent, especially for image interpretation. Compensation may include overtime pay for evening and weekend work, as well as bonuses linked to performance and specialist competence.
Competition and challenges
The profession as a radiologist is characterized by high competition for specialist training positions, but at the same time, there is a shortage of specialists, creating good job opportunities. Challenges include long training periods and high demands for precision and continuous professional development. Additionally, workload can be high, with a risk of stress related to quick diagnoses and complex patient cases. Technological changes require constant adaptation and learning.
Tips for those who want to become a radiologist
To succeed as a radiologist, it is good to have strong analytical skills and an interest in both medicine and technology. Precision is crucial to interpret imaging diagnostics correctly, which requires patience and attention to detail. It is also important to be communicative since collaboration with other doctors and healthcare staff is a central part of the work. Flexibility and willingness to continuously develop during specialist training facilitate the career path. Finally, a stress-resistant and problem-solving attitude helps manage the often rapid decision-making processes in the profession.
Key facts about radiologists
- Education level: Specialist doctor (about 10.5 years total)
- Salary range: 84,600–110,600 SEK/month
- Work environment: Clinical and office-based with high technical level
- Work form: Full-time, often daytime with some on-call duties
- Demand: Large and expected to increase according to the Employment Service
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as a radiologist, there are opportunities to further specialize in subfields such as interventional radiology or neuro-radiology. Some also choose to advance to leadership positions within clinical management or research. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that the demand for specialist doctors, including radiologists, is high and expected to grow despite recruitment challenges. The profession is characterized by paradoxically high workload, even though many leave the profession or work part-time, creating ongoing recruitment needs. Currently, there are approximately 375 vacant positions nationwide within the specialist doctor group.
Frequently asked questions about radiologists
- What is the average salary of a radiologist?
- The average salary is approximately 93 600 SEK per month.
- How long is the education to become a radiologist?
- About 10.5 years including medical degree and specialist training.
- Are there gender differences in radiologists' salaries?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries.
- In what work environments do radiologists work?
- Mainly hospitals and private healthcare providers with imaging diagnostics and office work.
- What are the future prospects for radiologists?
- Demand is expected to increase, and job opportunities are plentiful.
- What personal qualities are important for a radiologist?
- Accuracy, analytical ability, communication skills, and stress resilience are important.
- Can radiologists work part-time or with flexible hours?
- Yes, some employers offer flexible solutions and remote work to some extent.
