Assistant nurse, care facility

What does a healthcare assistant do in a healthcare facility? – Tasks and work environment

A healthcare assistant in a healthcare facility works to provide basic care and support to patients at hospitals, wards, or clinics. Tasks include assisting patients with personal hygiene, helping during medical examinations, taking samples, documenting care actions, and monitoring patients’ health status. The role requires close collaboration with nurses, doctors, and other healthcare staff, where empathetic interaction and good communication skills are essential. The work environment is often characterized by high pace, physical effort, and shift work, demanding both endurance and flexibility.

Salary development over time

The salary for healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,300 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 32 700 SEK. In 2024, the average salary is 34 000 SEK, representing a salary increase of approximately 8.6% during this period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified healthcare staff, changes in collective agreements, and a growing focus on working conditions and skills development. Salary increases have also been influenced by initiatives promoting gender equality and improved working conditions within the healthcare sector, benefiting both new and experienced healthcare assistants.

Healthcare assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 000 SEK/month
• Minimum salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, government sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Maximum salary: 36,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 204 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 34 000 SEK, men 33 800 SEK (women 101% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salary levels can be affected by region, employer, and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a healthcare assistant in a healthcare facility, a high school diploma in care and welfare is required, often supplemented with practical training and specialized courses. After completing the education, a professional certificate is issued, enabling employment in various types of healthcare facilities. Further education and specialization are possible within several areas, which can increase responsibility and salary.

• High school diploma: Care and Welfare program (3 years)
• Adult education (Komvux): For adults with high school eligibility but without healthcare education
• Specialization courses: For example, in dementia care, emergency care, or psychiatry
• Practical training: Usually included in the education program
• Professional certificate: Required for permanent employment with many employers

Common benefits and compensations

Healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities are often covered by collective agreements offering benefits such as extra vacation days, overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, and pension contributions. Some employers also provide opportunities for skills development, staff care, and flexible working hours. Long-term employment can grant access to bonuses and extended leave.

Competition and challenges

The job market for healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities is characterized by moderate competition and relatively good employment opportunities. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the demand for this profession is expected to increase over the next five years, partly due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs. At the same time, high demands are placed on flexibility and stress management, especially during periods of high workload and staff shortages. Technological developments also impose new requirements for digital skills and adaptability. Despite increased opportunities, the work environment can be physically and emotionally demanding, making it important to prioritize recovery and work-life balance.

Tips for those who want to become a healthcare assistant in a healthcare facility

To succeed as a healthcare assistant in a healthcare facility, it is important to have a strong sense of empathy and understanding of patients’ diverse needs. Precision is crucial, especially in medication management and documentation, so developing structured work habits early is beneficial. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and other healthcare professionals. Flexibility and resilience to stress are valuable qualities, as workload can vary significantly between shifts. Being attentive and communicative creates security for patients and relatives, while also contributing to a positive work environment. It is also wise to take advantage of opportunities for further education to broaden skills and increase employability. Showing engagement and willingness to develop is appreciated by employers and can lead to personal and professional growth.

Key facts about healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities

• Educational level: High school diploma or equivalent adult education
• Work environment: Shift work, often physically demanding
• Demand: Moderate today, increasing over five years
• Employment type: Permanent employment most common, also temporary and hourly work
• Special skills: Opportunities for specialization in dementia care or emergency care

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to develop within various specialties, such as becoming a specialist healthcare assistant, team leader, or administrative coordinator. Further education in emergency care, dementia, or psychiatry can lead to more qualified positions and higher salaries. The Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities will increase over five years, providing good prospects for employment. The recruitment situation is considered balanced nationally, but regional variations exist. With experience and further education, career paths within training, supervision, or leadership are also possible.

Frequently asked questions about healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities

• What does a healthcare assistant earn in a healthcare facility?
  - The average salary is 34 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How has the salary development for healthcare assistants progressed?
  - Over the past three years, the salary has increased from 31,300 SEK to 34 000 SEK, an increase of approximately 8.6%.
• What education is required to become a healthcare assistant?
  - A high school diploma from the care and welfare program or equivalent adult education is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What work benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and collectively negotiated pensions.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The demand for healthcare assistants in healthcare facilities is expected to increase according to the Employment Service.
• Can I further educate myself within the profession?
  - Yes, there are good opportunities for specialization and further education in several areas.