A practical guide to genetic screening tests for pregnancy in Israel

Thinking about growing your family? One of the first steps many couples take in Israel is genetic screening. These tests can help identify whether you or your partner are carriers of certain genetic conditions, information that can be crucial when planning for a healthy pregnancy.

So, how does genetic screening work? When should you do it? And what’s covered by your Kupat Cholim (HMO)? Let’s break it all down.

What we’ll cover:

• Why genetic screening matters

• When to get tested

• How the tests work

• What’s covered by your Kupah

• Optional tests you can add

• How to book an appointment

Whether you need testing before every pregnancy

Why genetic screening in Israel matters

Genetic screening is about being proactive. It helps identify couples who may be at risk of passing on certain genetic disorders to their children. Knowing this information early on gives you more options: whether it’s speaking to a genetic counselor, doing additional testing during pregnancy, or just having peace of mind.

In Israel, genetic screening is common and encouraged as part of routine family planning.

When should you do it?

The best time to do genetic screening is before you get pregnant. This gives you time to explore all options without the time pressure of pregnancy. That said, it’s also possible to do the tests during pregnancy.

🕒 Heads up: Booking an appointment for genetic screening can take time (sometimes a few months) so it’s smart to schedule as early as possible.

💡 Important update (November 2024): Israel recently launched a new national screening program. Even if you’ve done testing in the past, you should do this updated version before your next pregnancy. It’s done as a couple so both partners need to attend. Check with your HMO or one of the hospital genetic institutes to book.

How does genetic screening in Israel work?

Genetic screening usually involves a simple blood test (and sometimes a saliva swab). The lab looks for specific inherited conditions that you or your partner may carry. Most people who are carriers are healthy and unaware, so screening is the only way to know.

If both partners are carriers for the same condition, you’ll be offered a follow-up appointment to learn about your options.

Is it covered by your kupat cholim?

Yes, in many cases. Most HMOs in Israel cover a core set of genetic tests as part of their basic plans. For example:

• Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

• Fragile X Syndrome (women only)

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (women only)

💡 Coverage and tests may vary depending on your specific HMO plan. Always double-check with your Kupat Cholim!

What additional tests can you do?

If you’re part of an extended plan (like Maccabi Sheli), you may be eligible for additional testing based on your family’s ethnic background or region of origin.

Some examples of expanded screening include:

• Fanconi Anemia (Types A & C)

• Bloom Syndrome

• ML4 Disease (Mucolipidosis)

• Ataxia Telangiectasia

• Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1 (GSD1a)

• Usher Syndrome (Types 1a & 3a)

• Niemann-Pick Disease

• Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD)

• Joubert Syndrome 

  …and more.

🖥 You can find the full updated list of recommended tests on the Ministry of Health website.

How to book an appointment

You don’t need a referral, just call your HMO directly:

• Clalit: *2700

• Maccabi: *2555

• Meuhedet: *3833

• Leumit: *507

💡 Note: Some hospitals also offer genetic screening tests (for free and without the need to book an appointment). For example, Sheba Medical Center offers a walk-in service for genetic testing. 

Should you get tested before every pregnancy?

Yes, even if you were tested in a previous pregnancy. Why? Because Israel frequently updates its national screening program and adds new tests to reflect the latest science. Each pregnancy is a new opportunity to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.

Call your Kupah and ask if anything has changed since your last test, it’s worth the 5-minute call ✌🏻

Final thoughts

Genetic screening in Israel is easy to access, widely covered, and can offer clarity and confidence as you prepare to grow your family. Whether you’re just starting to think about pregnancy or already expecting, taking the time to do genetic screening is a meaningful way to care for your future child’s health.