Physiotherapist assistant

What does a Sjukgymnastbiträde do? – Tasks and work environment

A Sjukgymnastbiträde works closely with licensed physiotherapists or physiotherapists and assists with rehabilitation, training, and patient care. Tasks often include helping with exercises, preparing training equipment, motivating patients, and documenting interventions and progress. The role also involves creating a safe and supportive environment for patients of all ages, often within primary care, hospitals, or municipal services. The work environment is characterized by close collaboration within interdisciplinary teams and a varied daily routine where both physical work and social skills are important.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for Sjukgymnastbiträden have shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month, increasing to 29 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 30 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 11% over the period. The development can be linked to increased demand for healthcare personnel, especially in rehabilitation, as well as general investments in the healthcare sector. The consistent salary growth indicates that the profession is valued and employers strive to make it attractive, even though it remains an entry-level position with relatively moderate salary levels compared to licensed healthcare professionals.

Sjukgymnastbiträde salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (women), 26,800 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (women), 35,600 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (women: 30 400 SEK, men: 29 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data missing, but variations may occur between different employers and counties

Education and qualifications

To work as a Sjukgymnastbiträde, a high school education in healthcare and caring sciences or equivalent experience in healthcare is usually required. Formal requirements vary between employers, but many seek practical experience, good teamwork skills, and a genuine interest in rehabilitation and patient contact. There are opportunities to supplement with shorter courses or internal training to strengthen your competence in the role.

• Education: High school education in healthcare and caring sciences (3 years)
• Certifications: No formal requirements, but courses in rehabilitation and lifting techniques are meritorious
• Internship: Workplace-based learning during high school or introductory training at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Often experience from care or healthcare work
• Tips for choosing: Interest in people and good physical ability facilitate

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for Sjukgymnastbiträden include collective insurance, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for further training. Flexitime and extra compensation for unsociable hours may occur, especially within municipal or regional services. Employers often provide supervision and orientation to facilitate work in a complex healthcare environment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Sjukgymnastbiträde varies depending on region and employer, but there is generally a stable need for support functions within rehabilitation and healthcare. Challenges in the profession include physically demanding tasks and emotional strain in meeting patients who need support during recovery periods. The lack of a clear career ladder and limited opportunities for salary growth can also affect the profession's attractiveness over time. The role requires flexibility and teamwork skills under time pressure.

Tips for those who want to become a Sjukgymnastbiträde

To succeed as a Sjukgymnastbiträde, it is good to have strong empathy and a genuine interest in helping others, which makes it easier to meet patients with different needs and backgrounds. Initiative and independence facilitate in situations where tasks need to be solved quickly and smoothly. Being stress-resistant and flexible is crucial, as the work environment is often changeable and the pace can be high. It is valuable to be able to collaborate well in teams and take responsibility for your own tasks. Practical experience from healthcare or care provides a solid foundation, and it is wise to continuously seek new knowledge through courses or supervision. Accuracy in documentation and communication is appreciated by employers, as is a positive and professional attitude in all contacts.

Key facts about Sjukgymnastbiträde

• Salary range: 26,500–41,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education in healthcare and caring sciences
• Typical employment: Employed within municipal or regional services
• Number of available jobs (profession group): 375

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a Sjukgymnastbiträde, there are opportunities to further qualify as a healthcare assistant, occupational therapy assistant, or physiotherapist. Some choose to specialize in rehabilitation for specific patient groups or to take on supervisory roles for new colleagues. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the broad group of other healthcare and care personnel has a stable demand, indicating good future prospects. The number of available positions within the profession shows that there is demand, especially in the public sector. Building on additional education can improve chances of higher salaries and more qualified tasks.

Frequently asked questions about Sjukgymnastbiträde

• What does a Sjukgymnastbiträde earn?
  - The average salary for a Sjukgymnastbiträde is 30 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 30 400 SEK while men earn 29 800 SEK, which means women have a slightly higher salary.
• What education is required to become a Sjukgymnastbiträde?
  - High school education in healthcare and caring sciences is most common, but experience from healthcare work can also suffice.
• What is the job market like for this profession?
  - There is a stable demand for Sjukgymnastbiträden, with 375 available jobs.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, it is common to pursue further education to become a healthcare assistant or physiotherapist after a few years in the profession.
• What is the hourly wage for a Sjukgymnastbiträde?
  - The average hourly wage is 181 SEK.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - Physically demanding tasks, emotional strain, and limited career advancement opportunities are common challenges.