What does a junior doctor do? – Tasks and work environment
A junior doctor works in healthcare, often at hospitals or health centers, responsible for investigating, diagnosing, and treating patients under the supervision of more experienced doctors. Tasks include patient meetings, medical examinations, sampling, record-keeping, and collaboration with other healthcare staff. Junior doctors often participate in ward rounds and may also be responsible for urgent medical assessments, depending on the workplace and experience. The environment is fast-paced and demanding, with a strong focus on patient safety and continuous learning in clinical practice.
Salary development over time
The salary of junior doctors has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,400 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary increased to 49 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 2.9%. By 2024, the salary growth continued, and the average salary has now reached 52 700 SEK per month, an increase of another 5.8% compared to the previous year. This development reflects both the high demand for medical competence and an increased focus on making the profession attractive for recent graduates. Salaries are also affected by regional differences, employers, and experience levels, but the overall trend indicates steady growth for junior doctor salaries.
Junior doctor salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 52 700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 36,900 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 73,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
- Hourly wage: 317 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do; men: 54 500 SEK, women: 51 400 SEK
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on county/region, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas
Junior doctors often have the opportunity to work within various medical specialties early in their careers, providing a unique chance to find the right direction before specialization. Many employers also offer rotating placements that broaden experience and contact with different patient groups.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a junior doctor goes via the medical program, which is a university education lasting at least 6 years including practical training. A junior doctor is someone who has earned a medical degree but has not yet started or completed their internship (AT). To work as a junior doctor, licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare is also required, or a special appointment for temporary positions while waiting for licensure. Practical experience through temporary positions during studies is common and can be advantageous for future employment.
- Medical program: 6 years, university degree with extensive practical training
- Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved degree
- Practical training: Clinical placements included during education
- Special appointment: Possible for temporary positions before licensure
- Prerequisites: Basic and specific eligibility for university admission
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to base salary, junior doctors often receive compensation for unsocial hours, on-call and standby allowances, and the possibility of overtime pay. Many employers also offer wellness grants, subsidized meals, professional development, collective agreements, and occupational pension schemes. Temporary positions may also offer some flexibility in scheduling.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions as a junior doctor can vary between regions and hospitals, but nationally, opportunities are considered moderate according to the Swedish Employment Service. The recruitment situation is characterized by a balance, where the supply of trained doctors roughly matches demand. Challenges include high workload, demands for quick problem-solving, and emotionally demanding situations in patient care. Positions can be temporary, especially for temporary roles, and transition to a full internship (AT) is often competitive. At the same time, demand for junior doctors is expected to increase over the next five years, providing good prospects for those who are flexible and willing to work in different locations.
Tips for those aspiring to become a junior doctor
To succeed as a junior doctor, it’s beneficial to combine a strong engagement with medicine with teamwork skills and good communication. Precision is crucial, especially in record-keeping and medical assessments, while resilience helps manage the high pace and sometimes unpredictable workdays. Being receptive to supervision and feedback accelerates development and increases confidence in the role. Flexibility is a valuable asset, as tasks and workplaces often vary. Finally, showing empathy and respect in interactions with patients builds trust and confidence in the care situation.
Key facts about junior doctors
- Education level: Medical program, 6 years (university education)
- Work environment: Hospitals, health centers, and other healthcare facilities
- Typical employment forms: Temporary positions and full-time roles
- Demand: Moderate opportunities, increasing over five years
- Special skills: Clinical assessment, patient contact, medical documentation
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a junior doctor, it is common to start internship (AT) and then apply for specialist training (ST) to become a specialist in fields such as internal medicine, surgery, or general medicine. Junior doctors can also choose to work in research, teaching, or administrative roles within healthcare. The Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts show that demand for doctors, including junior doctors, is expected to increase within five years, with a continued balance in the national job market. Currently, there are 371 available positions in the profession, indicating good opportunities for job seekers. Regional mobility and broad experience increase chances for attractive roles and career development.
Frequently asked questions about junior doctors
- What is the average salary for a junior doctor?
- The average salary for a junior doctor is 52 700 SEK per month.
- What is the highest salary for a junior doctor?
- The highest salary is 73,900 SEK per month, applicable to a male with post-secondary education in the public sector.
- What is the lowest salary for a junior doctor?
- The lowest salary is 36,900 SEK per month, applicable to a female in the public sector.
- What are the gender differences in junior doctor salaries?
- Women earn 94% of what men do; men: 54 500 SEK, women: 51 400 SEK.
- What education is required to become a junior doctor?
- Medical program at university, 6 years, plus licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare.
- What is the job market like for junior doctors?
- Opportunities are moderate nationwide, with demand expected to increase over five years.
- What tasks does a junior doctor perform?
- Tasks include patient meetings, examinations, record-keeping, and medical assessments under supervision.
