Genetic counselors work as members of a healthcare team, providing risk assessment, education and support to individuals and families at risk for, or diagnosed with, a variety of inherited conditions. They also interpret genetic testing, provide supportive counseling, and serve as patient advocates. Genetic counselors work in many areas of medicine including cancer, prenatal, pediatric, and adult. Some genetic counselors specialize in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and infertility, among many others.

All genetic counselors in Israel are employed by hospitals or medical centers. Most positions are part-time.

See link for a comprehensive list of genetic counseling institutes throughout the country. Positions are mostly posted on the job boards of the hospitals and medical centers. Occasionally , postings can be found on general job boards.

In order to obtain recognition as a genetic counselor in Israel, one must have at least a Master’s degree in human genetics or genetic counseling from an institution recognized by the Israeli Council for Higher Education.

The certification process includes the following steps (you can read a detailed overview on the ministry of health’s website:

  1. Finding an internship position
  2. Obtaining an internship permit from the Division of Medical Professions
  3. 2 year internship
  4. Written exam
  5. Temporary and permanent certification

1. Finding a facility for the internship
The applicant must find a recognized genetic institute for the internship and receive written permission from the head of the genetic institute.

​​2. Obtaining Permission for the Internship
Prior to starting the internship, the applicant must submit an application and relevant documents (see below) to the Medical Professions Licensing Department. The Medical Professions Licensing Department will verify the applicant’s eligibility and will issue an internship permit for eligible applicants.

3. Internship
After obtaining permission from the Medical Professions Licensing Department, the applicant may begin the internship in a recognized genetic institute. The internship must be for a minimum of two years.

4. Exam
Examination dates are set on an as-needed basis in coordination with the manager of the community genetics department.
Phone number: 03-530-3548

Misrad Haklita Reimbursement

Please note: You are entitled to receive a reimbursement for your notarization and translation expenses (up to NIS 4000). This can be done ONLY AFTER completing your Aliyah. Take your original receipts to your local branch of Misrad HaKlita. This can be done retroactively.

Misrad Haklita also offers a reimbursement (up to 500 NIS) for Olim who took the governmental licensing exam. Your eligibility lasts for 10 years from your date of Aliyah. The reimbursement is ONLY given retroactively and will be paid back ONLY after submitting the receipt for your exam to your local Misrad Haklita office. Please contact your local Misrad Haklita office for more information.

If you didn’t participate in a Misrad Haklita preparation course for the governmental licensing exam, you may be entitled to a reimbursement for 2 exams (if needed).

5. Temporary certificate
A temporary certificate is awarded to those students who pass the exam. The student can then apply for a permanent license.

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