haarlemsdagbladApr 29, 2026, 09:00

Jehovah’s Witnesses now allowed to use their own blood in medical procedures. Is it of any use to them?

Jehovah's Witnesses have updated their policy to allow members to store and use their own blood for planned medical procedures, a shift from their previous total ban on blood transfusions. The change follows historical instances of members dying after refusing blood and raises questions about the practical benefits for the community in the Netherlands. While the new rule provides an alternative for scheduled surgeries, it may not address emergency situations where blood has not been pre-stored.

Culture Health Netherlands

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