Hospital physicist salary

Occupational Profile: Medical Physicist

Medical physicists are specialists in medical physics who play a critical role in diagnosis and treatment within healthcare. They primarily work with medical imaging technology and radiation therapy, where they are responsible for ensuring precision and safety in treatments involving radiation.

Salary Statistics for Medical Physicists

The average salary for a medical physicist is 48 500 SEK per month. There is an observable salary difference between genders, with men earning an average of 49 200 SEK and women earning 46 900 SEK, meaning that women earn 95% of what men do. Compared to the previous year, the average salary has increased from 47 800 SEK to 48 500 SEK, indicating a positive salary development within the profession.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a medical physicist, an academic background in physics is required, usually at the master's level or higher, with a specialization in medical physics. The education includes courses in medical radiation physics, radiobiology, and dosimetry. After completing the education, it is also common to undergo practical training at a hospital.

Employment Requirements

Those seeking employment as a medical physicist should have good knowledge in both physics and medicine, as well as the ability to work in teams with other healthcare professionals. Strong analytical skills and precision are essential, as the work often involves handling complex equipment and calculations that directly impact the patient's treatment.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

A medical physicist is responsible for calibrating medical equipment, ensuring radiation safety for both patients and staff, and developing treatment plans for radiotherapy. They work closely with physicians, especially in oncology, to plan and carry out treatments that maximize efficiency while minimizing risks for the patient.

Professional Benefits

The profession of a medical physicist may include specific benefits such as opportunities for further education paid for by the employer. These benefits contribute to the attractiveness of the profession and enable continuous professional development, which is important in a field that is constantly evolving technologically.

Considerations for Future Medical Physicists

For those considering a career as a medical physicist, it is important to be aware of the profession's demands for precision and responsibility. It is also important to have a natural inclination for science and technology, as well as a strong desire to contribute to patient care. The work environment can be stressful and requires the ability to make quick decisions.