Regiment doctor

What does a regimental doctor do? – Tasks and work environment

A regimental doctor has the medical responsibility for personnel within the Swedish Armed Forces and works at regiments, air bases, or other military units. The work includes health examinations, emergency care, medical advice, and assessments of work capacity. The regimental doctor also trains soldiers and officers in healthcare and participates in planning medical operations during exercises and international missions. The work environment can vary between clinic-based work, field operations, and administrative tasks, often with high demands for flexibility and preparedness.

Salary development over time

The profession of regimental doctor has shown a clear positive salary trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, increasing to 92 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average is projected at 93 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. The driving factors behind the salary increase include high demand for specialist doctors within the Armed Forces, increased educational requirements, and competition for medical expertise nationally. The salary range has also widened, especially for experienced regimental doctors or those in leadership positions. The trend indicates continued rising salaries as the need for specialist doctors in military environments grows.

Regimental 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
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (92 900 SEK/month vs 94 300 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations is limited, but salary levels tend to be higher in metropolitan areas and larger units.

Education and qualifications

To work as a regimental doctor, a medical license followed by specialist training is required, often in general medicine or internal medicine. Additionally, a specific military medical training and experience working in both civilian and military environments are needed. Selection is often among doctors with an interest in defense medicine and good physical fitness.

• Medical education: 6 years (medical program, license required)
• Specialist training: 5 years (e.g., general medicine, internal medicine)
• Military medical basic course: Mandatory for the Swedish Armed Forces
• Practical service: Internship (general service, 18–21 months)
• Additional merits: Experience in emergency care, leadership training, and good physical condition are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Regimental doctors often enjoy benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, favorable pension conditions, and opportunities for professional development. During international missions, allowances and sometimes special risk and readiness compensations are added. The position may also include free healthcare and insurance through the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a regimental doctor is relatively low, but the role demands high levels of medical knowledge as well as the ability to work under pressure and in sometimes dangerous situations. Challenges include adapting to military regulations, working in field environments, and making rapid medical decisions. The shortage of specialist doctors within the Swedish Armed Forces creates opportunities for those with flexibility and the right background. High workload and the need for continuous training are other factors impacting daily work.

Tips for aspiring regimental doctors

To succeed as a regimental doctor, it is beneficial to combine strong medical skills with an interest in defense issues and leadership. Attention to detail and resilience under stress are crucial, as the work often involves urgent situations and quick decisions. Gaining experience in emergency care early and participating in military medical courses can strengthen your position. Good physical fitness facilitates daily routines, especially during exercises and fieldwork. Collaboration skills and pedagogical abilities are valued, as teaching and mentoring are common parts of the role. Showing engagement for both medicine and the military opens doors to further career opportunities within the defense.

Key facts about Regimental Doctors

• Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
• Education level: Medical license + specialist training (approximately 11 years total)
• Work environment: Combination of clinic, field, and administration
• Demand: Great employment opportunities, increasing national need
• Typical employers: Swedish Armed Forces, government agencies

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a regimental doctor, opportunities include advancing to senior physician responsible for larger medical units or becoming chief medical officer with strategic and administrative responsibilities. Specialization in areas such as disaster medicine or international missions is also common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, job prospects are very good, and demand for specialist doctors in military environments is expected to grow over the next five years. The profession also offers opportunities for further education, leadership roles, and international service, making it attractive for doctors interested in security and societal issues. Currently, there are around 375 job openings in the field.

Frequently asked questions about Regimental Doctors

• What does a regimental doctor earn?
  - The average salary is 93 600 SEK per month, with a range from 84,600 SEK to 110,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a regimental doctor?
  - Medical license and specialist training are required, along with a military medical basic course.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the work environment like for a regimental doctor?
  - The work environment varies between clinic, field, and administration, often with high demands for flexibility and preparedness.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities include advancing to senior physician, chief medical officer, or specializing in areas such as disaster medicine and international missions.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is very positive, with increasing demand for specialist doctors within the Swedish Armed Forces over the next five years.