Working and living conditions in Sweden, by a Greek doctor recruited in 2012

(…)
First i would like to say that job at the hospital is easy and poses no difficulties. No complications so far. Language is not a problem. Patients understand what I’m saying and i spend time to clarify every detail of their medical problem. In general, one should not think of language as a barrier to move and work overseas. (…)
Healthcare system follows the basic concept of the Swedish working model, “work without stress”. Excellent working conditions, helpful colleagues, and routines written down on almost anything. Hard to get lost or improvise even thought the latter is sometimes necessary in medicine. Sometimes improvisations based on medical hunch turn to be right decisions and allow for exploration. It also keeps a doctor’s mind sharp. The system helps the doctor deal with true medical problems and not “logistics”. Heavily computerized, one saves times and becomes more productive (if he knows how to use the system…). Working rights are well established and job description is clear cut. No if and buts. Scientifically my colleagues are educated and adequate for the job. The system has no place for inadequate medical staff. The grand majority fulfils the minimum criteria for working in the healthcare system. And if someone doesn’t, there is plenty of space of improvement. If someone wants more out of his job and is more ambitious he should seek bigger cities with university hospitals. But this can be a future project once someone sets foot in Sweden. You can’t have everything at once. Patience is a virtue in this case.
(…)
In any case, Sweden seems secured for the moment. Not because it is a rich country but because they take good care of their money. Budget allocation works well. Doctors are making good money, everything is affordable with some planning in advance and the market has no significant fluctuations. The healthcare system is cemented and does not face any cut backs. It is actually the last thing that will fall if this country collapses.
(…)

Go to: www.paragona.com

Paragona in Greece

On weekend Paragona visited Thessaloniki and Athens, Greece. In Athens we held the conference for over 70 doctors with different specialties. During the medical career days we spoke with many medical professionals.
On the photo: Soren – Director of Studies, Ewelina – Recruitment Department and Alina – Paragona Romania.

We were amazed with the view of Athens city!

Go to: www.paragona.com