Legitimerad

Legitimerad is a Swedish adjective meaning that a person holds a legally recognised license to practice a regulated profession. The term is most commonly used for health and social care professions, but can apply to any vocation with official licensure or a protected title.

Examples include legitimerad läkare (physician), legitimerad tandläkare (dentist), legitimerad sjuksköterska (nurse), legitimerad psykolog (psychologist), and legitimerad apotekare (pharmacist). The exact scope varies by profession and country, but the core idea is authorization by law.

Becoming legitimerad generally requires completing an accredited education program and passing required examinations. In Sweden, the licensing authority for many health and social care professions is the Socialstyrelsen. After meeting requirements, applicants are granted legitimation and entered in a national register. The license may be issued as a formal document with a license number and title protection.

Maintaining legitimation typically involves ongoing professional development, adherence to ethical rules, and periodic renewal. Licenses can be suspended or revoked for misconduct, malpractice, or criminal activity.

Etymology and usage: legitimerad derives from legitimation, meaning legally authorised. The term emphasizes that practice is permitted by law and regulated authorities.