Health Ministry Warns Public About Unlicensed Doctor Providing Advice

Israel's Ministry of Health has issued a public warning regarding Dr. Michael Yanko, whose medical license was suspended for 15 years. The ministry has received reports that Yanko continues to offer mental health counseling services, including providing expert opinions for children and adolescents, despite the suspension.

The decision to suspend Yanko's license, effective until December 2025, followed his criminal conviction for fraud and a disciplinary hearing. The proceedings determined that Yanko had provided false recommendations for obtaining medical cannabis licenses, constituting a systematic pattern of behavior that severely damaged public trust in the medical profession.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that Yanko is not authorized to practice medicine and any medical documents he issues, such as opinions, certifications, diagnoses, or treatment recommendations, are invalid. These documents will not be recognized by official bodies, including courts, medical committees, government ministries, health funds, educational institutions, the IDF, the National Insurance Institute, and insurance companies.

The ministry urges the public to ensure that all medical advice, opinions, or documents are provided by qualified professionals holding valid medical licenses in Israel.