Jehovah’s Witnesses ease blood policy but maintain ban on whole-blood transfusions

Jehovah’s Witnesses have revised their longstanding policy on the medical use of donated blood, allowing members to receive blood-derived products while maintaining a ban on whole-blood transfusions.

According to an AP News report, the policy announced Friday allows members to receive medical treatments involving plasma, platelets and red and white blood cells, while leaving the decision to individual conscience.

“Each Christian must make his own personal decision about the use of these four primary components in all medical and surgical care,” said Geoffrey W Jackson, a member of the organisation’s governing body.