Health Ministry Warns Public Against Unlicensed Doctor Providing Mental Health Advice

Israel's Ministry of Health has issued a warning to the public regarding Dr. Michael Yanco, whose medical license was suspended for 15 years starting in December 2025. The suspension follows his criminal conviction for fraud and a disciplinary hearing where he was found to have provided false recommendations for medical cannabis licenses. The disciplinary court characterized his actions as systematic and repeated criminal conduct that severely damages public trust in the medical profession.

Despite the license suspension, the Ministry has received reports that Dr. Yanco continues to offer mental health counseling services, including expert opinions concerning children and adolescents. The Ministry emphasizes that his license suspension is in effect, prohibiting him from practicing medicine. Consequently, any medical opinions, certifications, diagnoses, treatment recommendations, or other medical documents issued by Dr. Yanco are invalid and will not be recognized by official bodies, courts, medical committees, government ministries, health funds, educational institutions, the IDF, the National Insurance Institute, or insurance companies.

The Ministry urges the public to exercise caution and responsibility when seeking medical advice or documentation, ensuring it is provided and signed only by authorized individuals with valid medical licenses in Israel. The Ministry provides a link to its database for verifying the credentials of healthcare professionals.