Hospital pharmacist

What does a hospital pharmacist do? – Tasks and work environment

Hospital pharmacists are responsible for medication supply within hospitals and healthcare facilities. Tasks include ensuring the availability of the correct medicines, advising healthcare staff on medication use and dosing, and participating in medication reviews for patients. The role also involves disseminating information about medicines, monitoring medication treatments, and quality work to minimize risks and errors. The work environment is characterized by close collaboration with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. The work often takes place in a clinical setting where flexibility, accuracy, and communication skills are crucial.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary levels for hospital pharmacists have shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, increasing to 45 000 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of about 4.2%. However, the average salary in 2024 has decreased to 41 519 SEK, a reduction of approximately 7.7% compared to the previous year. This decline can partly be explained by changes in the job market and potential restructuring within healthcare, as well as an increase in new graduates, which lowers the overall average. Despite this, salary levels remain competitive within the healthcare sector, and demand for qualified hospital pharmacists remains high according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts.

Hospital Pharmacist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 519 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 52,600 SEK/month (female, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Complete data on average salaries for women and men are lacking, but the highest salary for men is 51,100 SEK/month and the lowest 46,900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a hospital pharmacist, a solid educational background in pharmacy is required, typically a university degree in pharmacy. In addition to formal education, internships within healthcare are often necessary, and courses in medication management, pharmacology, and clinical pharmacy are commonly taken. Many hospital pharmacists also choose to pursue further training in specialized areas to broaden their skills and increase career opportunities.

• Pharmacy degree: Five-year university program (300 hp)
• Licensing: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved graduation
• Internship: Clinical practice during the final year is mandatory
• Further education: Courses in clinical pharmacy and medication management are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and specific requirements in chemistry, biology, and mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for hospital pharmacists include occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, subsidized lunches, and options for remote work on administrative tasks. The compensation system is often regulated by collective agreements, providing a stable base salary and predictable conditions.

Competition and challenges

The job market for hospital pharmacists is characterized by high demand and good employment prospects, but there are also challenges related to recruitment difficulties and high workload. The combination of specialist competence and the need for clinical experience makes competition for the most attractive positions significant, especially in metropolitan areas. At the same time, reports indicate some unemployment and part-time work within the profession, suggesting a paradoxical situation where there are both vacancies and qualified individuals unable to find full-time employment. Digitalization and increased documentation requirements also impose new demands for flexibility and continuous training.

Tips for those who want to become a hospital pharmacist

To succeed as a hospital pharmacist, it’s important to have good analytical skills and be meticulous, as medication management requires precision at every step. A genuine interest in collaboration facilitates work in multidisciplinary teams and makes communication with healthcare staff and patients easier. A strong commitment to continuous learning is essential, as new medicines and treatment methods are constantly introduced in healthcare. Independence and initiative help manage complex situations and make decisions under time pressure. Finally, being service-oriented and pedagogical is valuable, as advising and educating other professionals is a central part of the role. Early internships and building networks within healthcare are highly recommended to gain insight into the work environment and establish valuable contacts.

Key facts about Hospital Pharmacists

• Average salary: 41 519 SEK/month
• Salary range: 42,900–52,600 SEK/month
• Education level: Pharmacy degree (5 years, university level) + licensing
• Work environment: Clinical setting, close collaboration with healthcare staff
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 375 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many hospital pharmacists develop specialist competence in areas such as clinical pharmacy, medication safety, or research. Career options include roles as medication manager, clinical pharmacist, department head, or advisor within drug committees. Opportunities also exist to work in the pharmaceutical industry, government agencies, or as university instructors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities remain strong, and demand is expected to stay stable over the next five years, although recruitment may be challenging due to a paradoxical situation of both shortages of experienced staff and some unemployment. The profession is also continuously evolving, especially with increased focus on clinical work and patient-centered services.

Frequently asked questions about hospital pharmacists

• What does a hospital pharmacist earn?
  - The average salary is 41 519 SEK per month, with a range between 42,900 SEK and 52,600 SEK.
• What education is required to become a hospital pharmacist?
  - A five-year university degree in pharmacy and a license from the National Board of Health and Welfare are required.
• What is the job market like for hospital pharmacists?
  - The job market is considered very good with many opportunities for employment.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Complete gender-specific data is lacking, but the highest salary for women is 52,600 SEK and for men 51,100 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of a hospital pharmacist?
  - Responsibilities include medication supply, advising healthcare staff, quality work, and collaboration with healthcare professionals.
• How much does a hospital pharmacist earn per hour?
  - An average of 250 SEK per hour for part-time employment.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include specialist roles, managerial positions, and work within the pharmaceutical industry or research.