Genetic Counselor

Overview of the Profession

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. Here is a comprehensive list of genetic counseling institutes throughout the country.

Licensing Process

In order to obtain recognition as a genetic counselor in Israel, you 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.

You will need to open a file with the Israeli Ministry of Health in order to get your license.

Please click here to download the documents checklist.

Receiving Certification

In addition to opening a file with the Ministry of Health, you’ll need to complete the following steps:

Find a facility for internship
The applicant must find a recognized genetic institute in Israel to complete an internship at, and receive written permission from the head of the genetic institute.

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.

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.

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

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

Misrad Haklita Reimbursement for Documents

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration is offering a retroactive reimbursement of up to 4000 NIS to Olim who were required to translate and/or notarize documents for the purpose of transferring their professional license in Israel. Please contact your local Misrad Haklita office for more information.

Please note the following conditions:

• This can be done ONLY AFTER completing your Aliyah.
• The reimbursement is only retroactive for 2 years prior to your date of Aliyah.
• Only Olim who have not yet reached retirement age are eligible.
• Reimbursement can be made only for Israeli notary/consulate verification with original receipts (or verified copy) . Apostille is not reimbursable!

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, unfortunately, didn’t pass the exam and think that you have reason to submit an appeal, please follow the instructions delineated here.